Payson, AZ Utility & Living Guide

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Payson, AZ Utility & Living Guide

Payson is a town in northern Gila County, Arizona, United States. Due to Payson's location being very near to the geographic center of Arizona, it has been called "The Heart of Arizona." Payson is also considered part of the colloquially defined Northern Arizona region, and the town serves as a gate

Last updated: June 26, 2026
Total Utilities$268/mo
1BR Rent$1100/mo
Sales Tax8.1%
COL Index94 (-6% below national average)
Family Score7/10
Median Home$340,000
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⚠️ Natural Hazard History — Payson
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💰 Budget Calculator
🔌 Utilities
🏠 Housing
📊 Cost of Living
💰 Taxes
👨‍👩‍👧 Families
🧮 Tools

Monthly Utility Costs

⚡ Electric

$128/mo

Arizona Public Service (APS)
🔥 Gas

N/A - Electric only
💧 Water

$50/mo

Town of Payson Water Department
🗑️ Garbage

$30/mo

Republic Services
📶 Internet

$60/mo

Combined Average Overhead$268/month

Housing Market

Rent & Property
1 Bedroom$1100/mo
2 Bedrooms$1400/mo
3 Bedrooms$2000/mo
Median Home Price$340,000
Property Tax Rate0.81%
Avg Childcare/mo$900

The housing market in Payson is relatively affordable, with a mix of older and newer homes available. The town has seen steady growth in recent years, with new developments and subdivisions being built. However, the market can be competitive, especially for buyers looking for homes in the lower price ranges.

Cost of Living

Overall COL Index

94

US national avg = 100
vs National Avg

-6% below national average

Groceries

96

Transportation

88

Healthcare

105

Childcare/mo

$900

Tax Rates

Tax Overview
Total Sales Tax8.1%
Property Tax Rate0.81%
<p>State 5.6% + County 0.5% + City 2%</p>

Arizona has a state income tax with rates ranging from 2.59% to 4.54%, depending on income level and filing status.

Family & Relocation

Family Vibe Score
7/10
Safety Index

55

Higher = safer
School Rating

7.1/10

GreatSchools avg
Avg Childcare

$900/mo

City Pulse

Population Trend
+2% (growing)
Political Climate
Red
Business Momentum
Moderate, with key industries including tourism, healthcare, and retail
Top Local Concerns
Affordability, traffic, and public safety
🚌 Transit for Families

Payson has limited public transportation options, but the town is relatively small and walkable, with some sidewalks and crosswalks available.

🎡 Top Kid Attractions
  • 🎯
    Tonto Natural Bridge State Park
  • 🎯
    Payson Event Center
  • 🎯
    and the Mogollon Rim

Best Neighborhoods for Families

The best neighborhoods for families in Payson include the areas around Main Street, which offer a mix of older and newer homes, as well as the newer subdivisions on the outskirts of town, which often feature amenities like parks and playgrounds.

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📰 Live Local News

Payson has regulations in place regarding zoning, building codes, and environmental protection, which are enforced by the town’s planning and building departments.

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📊 Payson — Census & Demographic Data

Official data from the US Census Bureau, American Community Survey.

☀️ Seasonal Utility Costs

Utility costs in Payson tend to be higher in the summer months due to air conditioning usage, with average electric bills increasing by 20-30% from June to August. In the winter, costs are relatively lower, but may still be affected by heating usage, especially in older homes.

🏛️ Local Tax Details

The ZIP code 85541 has a property tax millage rate of 0.81%, with no local surtaxes specific to Gila County

👶 Family & Stroller Friendliness

6, due to the town's relatively small size and walkability, as well as the presence of some sidewalks and crosswalks, but limited public transportation options and some areas with inadequate pedestrian infrastructure.

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