Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Tonopah, AZ
Considering a move to Tonopah, AZ? This small desert community of about 2,500 residents offers affordable living with a median home price near $323,000 and average rents around $1,180. Tonopah boasts over 86% sunny days a year, low population density, and a relaxed rural vibe—though commutes to Phoenix average 37 minutes. With basic local schools, access to major hospitals in nearby cities, and a cost of living below the national average, Tonopah is ideal for those seeking space, sunshine, and a quieter lifestyle.
Demographics - Tonopah, AZ
Demographics - Tonopah, AZ
Tonopah is a small desert community with a population of around 2,500, characterized by a low density of 25 residents per square mile and a median age of 44. The area is predominantly White (64%) with a notable Hispanic and minority presence, and about 18% of residents speak a language other than English at home. The gender balance is nearly equal, making Tonopah a diverse yet close-knit place to live.
Population:
2,500
Density:
25 per sq mi
Median Age:
44.0
Gender Ratio:
102 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
18.0%

Ethnic Composition
White:
64.0%
Black:
3.0%
Asian:
1.0%
Others:
32.0%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Tonopah, AZ?
Tonopah offers a cost of living slightly below the national average, with a median home value of $323,000 and average rent of $1,180. Everyday expenses such as groceries and healthcare are also lower than national norms, though utility costs run a bit higher. The area's overall affordability makes it attractive for those seeking value in a rural setting.
Median House Value:
$323,000
Gross Rent:
$1,180
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$140
Auto Insurance:
$1,540
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,700
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$460
State Taxes:
Low:
2.59%
|
High:
4.50%
Cost Of Living Index:
96.0
Grocery:
94.0
Housing:
88.5
Utilities:
106.0
Transportation:
98.0
Health Care:
92.0
Miscellaneous:
97.0
Crime
Is Tonopah, AZ a safe place to live?
Tonopah experiences relatively low violent crime, with a rate of 285 incidents per 100,000 residents and a 1 in 350 chance of being affected. Property crime is more common, at 1,950 incidents per 100,000, meaning residents should stay vigilant. Overall, the crime rate is typical for a rural Arizona community and offers a generally safe environment.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
285
Property Crimes Per 100k:
1,950
Crime Index:
2,235
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 350
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 51
Weather
What is the weather like in Tonopah, AZ year-round?
Residents enjoy a warm desert climate with mild winters (lows around 36°F), hot summers (highs up to 107°F), and 86% sunny days annually. Tonopah receives about 8 inches of rainfall per year, making it ideal for lovers of sunshine and dry weather. Seasonal changes are moderate, contributing to the area’s appeal for those seeking year-round warmth.

Winter
Min:
36°F
Max:
68°F

Spring
Min:
49°F
Max:
88°F

Summer
Min:
74°F
Max:
107°F

Fall
Min:
55°F
Max:
88°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
8.0 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
86%
Neighbors
Tonopah households have a median income of $59,500, while the per capita income stands at $25,300. The community has a 14.8% poverty rate and a 6.9% unemployment rate, with most residents commuting about 37 minutes to work. Education attainment is moderate, as nearly 78% have finished high school and just over 11% hold a bachelor's degree or higher.
Median Income:
$37,000
Household Income:
$59,500
Family Income:
$64,000
Per Capita Income:
$25,300
Income Male:
$33,000
Income Female:
$27,000
Poverty Rate:
14.8%
Non English Speakers:
18.0%
Rent:
$1,180
Unemployment Rate:
6.9%
Public Transport Usage:
0.5%
Commute Time:
37.0 minutes

Education
High School or Higher:
77.5%
Bachelors or More:
11.2%
Education
How are the schools in Tonopah, AZ?
Tonopah’s public schools, such as Ruth Fisher Elementary, offer a close-knit educational environment with moderate class sizes. For higher education, residents are within commuting distance of Estrella Mountain Community College in Avondale, which serves about 15,000 students. While private options are limited locally, basic educational needs are met within the community and nearby cities.

Public Schools
Name:
Ruth Fisher Elementary School
Street:
38201 W Indian School Rd
Phone:
623-474-5500
Students:
510
Student Teacher Ratio:
16.5

Colleges
Name:
Estrella Mountain Community College
City:
Avondale
State:
AZ
Distance:
31 miles
Students:
15,000
Healthcare
Residents of Tonopah have access to major hospitals such as Banner Estrella Medical Center and Abrazo West Campus, both located within driving distance. The area is served by a moderate physician-to-population ratio of 1.8 per 1,000 and about 86.5% of locals have health insurance. Healthcare costs are below the national average, making medical services relatively affordable.

Major Hospitals
Name:
Banner Estrella Medical Center
Address:
9201 W Thomas Rd, Phoenix, AZ 85037
Phone:
(623) 327-4000
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Name:
Abrazo West Campus
Address:
13677 W McDowell Rd, Goodyear, AZ 85395
Phone:
(623) 882-1500
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
1.8
Health Insurance Coverage:
86.5%
Health Care Index:
66.2
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Tonopah, AZ?
The Tonopah housing market features a median home price of $323,000 and average two-bedroom rent of $1,180, with over 80% of homes owner-occupied. Home values have appreciated by 4.5% over the past year, indicating modest growth and stability. The area offers a mix of affordability and opportunity for both buyers and renters.
Median Home Price:
$323,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$1,180
Owner Occupied Rate:
80.1%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
9.5%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
4.5%
New Construction Rate:
2.2%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.7%
DMV Information
Tonopah residents are served by the Arizona Department of Transportation’s Motor Vehicle Division, with the nearest full-service office in Phoenix. The office provides a range of licensing and registration services and can be reached at 602-255-0072 or online at the official ADOT website. Services are easily accessible for local drivers and vehicle owners.
State:
Arizona
Department:
Arizona Department of Transportation - Motor Vehicle Division
Address:
221 E. Olympic Dr., Phoenix, AZ 85040
Phone:
602-255-0072
Website:
Disclaimer: The information provided on this page is based on publicly available sources including AccuWeather, U.S. Census Bureau, local government data, and third-party partners such as Neustar. While we strive to ensure accuracy, all data is provided “as is” and should be independently verified before making any decisions. Movers.com makes no guarantees regarding the completeness or reliability of the information.