Florence, Arizona represents one of the Phoenix area’s most compelling real estate opportunities, where historic character seamlessly blends with modern convenience. As a licensed Associate Broker with West USA Realty who has guided countless families to their dream homes throughout the greater Phoenix area, I’ve witnessed firsthand how Florence’s unique positioning attracts discerning buyers seeking authenticity and value in today’s competitive market.
Established in 1866, Florence was established in 1866, making it one of Arizona’s oldest European settlements and the sixth-oldest non-Native American municipality in the state. This rich heritage creates an investment environment where property values benefit from both historical significance and strategic location – situated approximately 60 miles southeast of Phoenix and perfectly positioned for buyers seeking small-town authenticity without sacrificing urban accessibility.
Florence’s residential landscape showcases Arizona’s most respected builders developing thoughtfully planned communities that honor the town’s heritage while embracing contemporary living. Pulte Homes leads the market with their established presence in multiple developments, offering Life Tested Home Designs® and flexible Smart Home options throughout the area. Their commitment to quality construction and innovative floor plans has made them a cornerstone of Florence’s growth.
Lennar brings their renowned “Everything’s Included” approach to communities like Magma Ranch Vistas, featuring both cottage and premier collections that cater to diverse lifestyle preferences. This new construction, quick move-in home is the “Lilac Plan 2569” plan by Lennar, and is located in the community of The Magma Ranch Vistas – Cottage, demonstrating their active development throughout Florence.
D.R. Horton, America’s largest homebuilder, maintains a strong presence with properties in Crestfield Manor and Anthem Parkside at Merrill Ranch. D.R. Horton is a famous American builder of quality and attractive properties in the south. They offer new homes in Crestfield Manor and Anthem Parkside at Merrill Ranch. Their communities feature modern amenities including rock climbing walls, state-of-the-art fitness facilities, basketball courts, and heated pools.
Starlight Homes emphasizes affordability without compromising quality, developing communities like Magma Ranch Vistas with competitive pricing and innovative financing options. Our affordable homes are located in great locations, making homeownership accessible to first-time buyers and move-up purchasers alike.
Del Webb brings their nationally acclaimed active adult communities to Florence through Sun City Anthem at Merrill Ranch, offering resort-style amenities and maintenance-free living designed for buyers 55 and better. Their floor plans like the “Sanctuary” and “Preserve” models provide elegant single-story living with premium finishes and energy-efficient design.
Florence’s recreational opportunities rival those of established Scottsdale and Phoenix communities while maintaining the authentic Arizona desert experience that attracts lifestyle-focused buyers.
Poston Butte Golf Club stands as the crown jewel of Florence recreation, featuring an 18-hole championship golf course designed by world renowned Gary Panks that offers unequaled beauty with a challenging yet rewarding layout. This par 72 course offers 5 sets of tees ranging from 5,300 yards – 7,300 yards in length providing golfers of all skill levels an enjoyable experience. The signature island green 17th hole creates a memorable experience reminiscent of TPC Sawgrass, while the course management by Troon Golf ensures world-class conditions year-round.
Three Parks Fairways provides an accessible 9-hole executive course perfect for quick rounds and skill development. Three Parks Fairways offers a challenging 9-hole Executive Golf course with two longer par-4 holes and 7 par 3’s to improve your short game, making it ideal for residents seeking convenient practice or recreational play.
Florence’s proximity to Casa Grande Ruins National Monument adds significant lifestyle value for residents. An Ancestral Sonoran Desert People’s farming community and “Great House” are preserved at Casa Grande Ruins. This nationally significant archaeological site, created as the nation’s first archaeological reserve in 1892, the site was declared a National Monument in 1918, provides residents with world-class cultural amenities within minutes of their homes.
Desert recreation opportunities abound with Poston Butte Trail, offering panoramic views and access to the historic tomb of Charles Poston, Arizona’s territorial delegate. Box Canyon provides off-road vehicle enthusiasts with professionally managed ATV and UTV experiences, while the Florence Coke Ovens Trail delivers challenging hiking experiences through pristine Sonoran Desert landscapes.
Florence residents enjoy extensive municipal recreation facilities managed by the town’s Parks and Recreation Department. These include multiple recreation centers, athletic fields, disc golf courses, and the Florence Aquatic Center, providing year-round aquatic recreation for families.
Florence Unified School District serves the community with a growing network of schools designed to meet increasing enrollment demands. As a district of educational choice we serve students across Florence, San Tan Valley, and Queen Creek, Arizona. Voted the Best Public School District in the East Valley for 2024, demonstrating the district’s commitment to academic excellence.
The district operates 14 schools and serves 9,090 students, with recent investments in technology and facilities ensuring students receive contemporary educational experiences. Notable schools include Florence K-8, Anthem Elementary School, and Magma Ranch K8 School, each serving specific communities within the greater Florence area.
Florence High School provides comprehensive secondary education with modern facilities including a commercial-quality television studio and advanced telecommunications center. The district’s emphasis on Career and Technical Education (CTE) programs and 1:1 technological learning prepares students for both college and career pathways.
School choice options extend beyond district boundaries, with Florence Unified School District serving students across Florence, San Tan Valley, and Queen Creek, Arizona, providing families flexibility in educational planning.
Florence’s dining scene reflects its multicultural heritage and growing sophistication. Mount Athos Restaurant and Cafe brings authentic Greek cuisine to the historic downtown area, specializing in Greek, American & Italian fine cuisine with dishes ranging from traditional lamb shanks to contemporary Italian pastas.
Valentino’s Eatery in Anthem at Merrill Ranch showcases Italian excellence, with Owner and Chef Rob Barker bringing more than 34 years of experience creating spectacular Italian entreés from his background at New York family-owned establishments.
The Irish Cowboy adds international flair to Main Street, offering authentic Irish cuisine and atmosphere that transports guests to the Emerald Isle. River Bottom Bar & Grill provides classic American fare in a welcoming environment perfect for families and social gatherings.
The Historic Downtown Florence area features carefully preserved architecture with over 25 buildings on the National Register of Historic Places showcasing diverse styles including Sonoran, Victorian, American Territorial, and Mission Revival. First Friday events from May through November bring the community together for art, music, shopping, and entertainment, creating a vibrant social scene that enhances property values and community appeal.
The Windmill Winery offers locally produced wines featuring grapes that thrive in Arizona’s desert terrain, providing residents with sophisticated entertainment options and unique varietals including Pinotage, Alicante Bouschet, and Barbera.
Shopping opportunities include locally-owned boutiques, art galleries, and specialty shops throughout the historic Main Street corridor, complemented by convenient access to major retail centers in nearby communities.
Florence represents an exceptional opportunity for buyers seeking authentic Arizona living with modern conveniences and investment potential. The community’s strategic location provides quick access to Phoenix and Tucson metropolitan areas while maintaining its distinctive small-town character and affordability advantages.
As your dedicated real estate professional with West USA Realty, I bring extensive knowledge of Florence’s neighborhoods, builders, and market dynamics to help you navigate this unique market successfully. Whether you’re attracted to active adult communities, family-oriented neighborhoods, or historic properties, Florence offers diverse options backed by strong fundamentals and growth potential.
The combination of established builders like Pulte, Lennar, and D.R. Horton, world-class recreational amenities including Poston Butte Golf Club, proximity to Casa Grande Ruins National Monument, and award-winning schools creates a compelling value proposition for today’s discerning buyers.
Ready to discover your perfect home in Florence, Arizona? Contact Carl Chapman, Associate Broker with West USA Realty, at 602-617-4440 to schedule your personalized tour of this remarkable community where Arizona’s past and future converge.
The real estate market in Florence offers exceptional value compared to Phoenix metropolitan communities, with homes typically priced 30-40% lower than comparable properties in nearby metropolitan areas. Home prices in Florence currently range from under $200,000 for established properties in town to the mid $400,000s for newer homes with modern amenities in planned communities like Anthem at Merrill Ranch. Several master-planned communities have developed in Florence, including Anthem at Merrill Ranch by Del Webb/Pulte, offering resort-style amenities and contemporary designs attracting retirees and families. Available properties include historic homes in the downtown district, mid-century properties in established neighborhoods, newer homes in planned communities, and rural properties ideal for those seeking space and privacy. Current inventory has remained relatively balanced, with the average time on market ranging from 30-45 days, providing buyers with opportunities for thoughtful decisions without extreme competition. The average price per square foot in Florence hovers around $165, representing significant value for budget-conscious buyers seeking affordable homeownership opportunities with historic charm or modern amenities. Market analysts project steady appreciation for Florence properties as infrastructure improvements continue and regional growth extends eastward from Phoenix, with predictions of 4-6% annual increases in coming years. Recent sales data indicates particular interest in both historic properties with character and newer homes in amenity-rich planned communities, reflecting the diverse buyer preferences in this unique market.
Florence students attend schools within the Florence Unified School District, which has worked diligently to improve educational outcomes and expand opportunities for local students. Florence K-8 serves the central community while Anthem K-8 provides education for students in the newer master-planned communities, both offering standard curriculum with increasing focus on technology integration. Florence High School provides comprehensive secondary education with growing college preparatory options, career and technical education programs, and expanding extracurricular activities including robust athletic programs. The district has implemented innovative programs including STEM initiatives, arts integration, and specialized learning pathways preparing students for diverse post-graduation opportunities. Central Arizona College maintains its regional Signal Peak Campus approximately 20 minutes from Florence, offering associate degrees, certificate programs, and transfer pathways to four-year universities. The district's partnership with Central Arizona College enables dual enrollment opportunities, allowing motivated high school students to earn college credits while completing their secondary education. Several specialized educational options exist within the district, including Progression Point Academy alternative high school and flexible learning programs accommodating diverse student needs.
Florence maintains several community parks featuring playgrounds, sports fields, picnic areas, and gathering spaces, with Heritage Park serving as a central green space adjacent to the historic downtown district. The Florence Aquatic Center provides welcome relief during hot summer months, with a modern swimming facility offering recreational swimming, swimming lessons, and water aerobics programs at affordable rates. The Florence Community Center offers recreational programs, meeting spaces, and community activities serving residents of all ages throughout the year. Sports enthusiasts enjoy access to baseball fields, basketball courts, and soccer facilities maintained by the town's Parks and Recreation Department, supplemented by extensive recreational amenities in planned communities like Anthem. The historic downtown district serves as a unique community amenity, with its well-preserved architecture, museums, and small businesses creating a distinctive atmosphere not found in newer communities. Anthem at Merrill Ranch features substantial private recreational facilities including resort-style swimming pools, fitness centers, and the Poston Butte Golf Club designed by Gary Panks. The Florence Library and Community Center provides not only books and digital resources but also community programs, children's activities, and meeting spaces serving as important gathering places.
Florence offers basic shopping options including Safeway, Dollar General, and various local retailers meeting everyday necessities within the community. The Promenade at Casa Grande, approximately 25 minutes away, provides access to major retailers including Target, Kohl's, PetSmart, and Best Buy for expanded shopping opportunities. Local dining establishments include historic favorites like the Mt. Athos Restaurant & Café, small diners, and family-owned Mexican restaurants giving residents authentic small-town dining experiences with historic ambiance. Chain restaurants in Florence include McDonald's, Subway, and Sonic Drive-In, with more options available in nearby communities for those seeking greater variety. For entertainment, the McFarland State Historic Park and the Pinal County Historical Museum offer educational experiences highlighting the region's rich history and cultural heritage. Weekend excursions to metropolitan Phoenix, approximately one hour away, or Tucson, 60 minutes to the south, give residents access to world-class shopping, dining, and cultural attractions while maintaining their peaceful small-town lifestyle. Annual events including the Country Thunder music festival and the Florence Junior Parada rodeo bring entertainment directly to the community, drawing visitors from throughout the Southwest.
Florence's location along State Route 79 and State Route 287 provides convenient access to regional transportation networks connecting to larger communities and employment centers. Interstate 10 lies approximately 20 minutes west of Florence, offering quick connections to Phoenix, Tucson, and the broader interstate highway system for regional travel. The average commute to downtown Phoenix takes approximately 60-70 minutes during typical rush hours, making Florence viable for those valuing historic charm and affordability over commute times. The reasonably direct routes to both Phoenix and Tucson create flexibility for employment options in either metropolitan area without excessive complexity in commuting. Major East Valley employment centers including Chandler, Gilbert, and Mesa can be reached in 35-50 minutes, creating viable commuting options for many professionals. Future transportation improvements may include enhanced highway connections as regional development continues expanding between Florence and the Phoenix metropolitan area. The lack of traffic congestion within Florence itself means residents enjoy stress-free local travel, with most in-town destinations reachable within ten minutes.
Florence consistently ranks among Arizona's safest communities, with crime rates substantially below both state and national averages, providing peace of mind for families and retirees. The Florence Police Department provides dedicated community policing, with officers who know local residents and actively engage in crime prevention rather than just enforcement. Emergency response times in Florence average under five minutes for high-priority calls, significantly better than many larger communities experience. The town's comprehensive emergency operations center coordinates police, fire, and medical responses to ensure effective management of any community emergencies. Community watch programs operate in many Florence neighborhoods, creating additional layers of security through neighbor cooperation and awareness. The police department offers numerous community outreach programs including youth engagement initiatives, senior safety training, and regular community forums on public safety. The small-town environment creates natural security through familiarity, with residents looking out for one another in ways often lost in larger communities.
Florence offers primary care services through various medical clinics, including Florence Hospital's outpatient services providing family medicine for residents of all ages. Banner Health operates a clinic in Florence, offering primary care, laboratory services, and connections to their broader specialty care network. Emergency medical services are provided by professional firefighter/EMTs with advanced life support capabilities and rapid response times throughout the community. For hospital care, residents can access Banner Casa Grande Medical Center approximately 30 minutes away, providing emergency services, surgery, and specialized care. Banner Ironwood Medical Center in Queen Creek, approximately 25 minutes from Florence, offers additional hospital services including emergency care, surgery, and specialized medical treatment. Specialized medical care is available within reasonable driving distance, with numerous medical complexes in Chandler and Gilbert approximately 40-50 minutes away. The growing healthcare infrastructure in Pinal County continues to improve, with additional medical offices opening regularly as Florence and surrounding communities expand their populations.
Florence's location in the Sonoran Desert provides breathtaking natural beauty, with dramatic mountain views and spectacular sunsets creating an inspiring backdrop for outdoor activities. The nearby Gila River offers recreational opportunities including hiking, wildlife viewing, and seasonal water activities when conditions permit. The Florence-Kelvin Highway provides a scenic route for cycling, motorcycle touring, and Sunday drives through pristine desert landscapes largely unchanged for centuries. Outdoor enthusiasts appreciate the proximity to the Superstition Mountains, providing challenging hiking trails and stunning desert vistas approximately 35 minutes from Florence. Local golf enthusiasts enjoy the Poston Butte Golf Club in Anthem at Merrill Ranch, offering premium play in a scenic desert setting with mountain views. The mild winter climate allows for year-round outdoor activities, with residents enjoying hiking, biking, and outdoor fitness during months when much of the country remains snowbound. The area's dark skies, minimal light pollution, and clear desert air create excellent conditions for stargazing and amateur astronomy throughout the year.
Florence celebrates its heritage through annual events including the Road to Country Thunder Festival and the historic Florence Junior Parada, recognized as the oldest youth rodeo in the United States. The town's signature event, the Tour of Historic Florence, showcases architecturally significant homes and buildings while celebrating the community's preservation efforts. Community clubs and interest groups flourish, offering opportunities to connect with neighbors who share passions for history, gardening, book discussions, or family activities. The Florence Chamber of Commerce coordinates numerous business events, networking opportunities, and community improvement initiatives that enhance quality of life for all residents. Local churches organize various community service projects, food drives, and social events that create connections while addressing community needs. The small-town atmosphere encourages genuine community engagement, with residents frequently volunteering for civic projects, youth mentoring, and neighborhood improvement initiatives. The blend of long-time residents and newcomers creates a rich community fabric, with established families welcoming those drawn to Florence's unique combination of history and affordability.
Florence enjoys the characteristic Sonoran Desert climate, featuring over 330 sunny days annually and wonderfully mild winter temperatures averaging 65-70 degrees. Summer temperatures typically range from 100-110 degrees, with the extremely low humidity making even higher temperatures more manageable than in humid regions, though still requiring appropriate heat precautions. The community receives approximately 10 inches of rainfall annually, primarily during the dramatic monsoon season from July through September, occasionally bringing spectacular thunderstorms and much-needed moisture. The desert climate creates spectacular sunrise and sunset displays, with vibrant colors intensified by the clean, dry air and mountain backdrops that frame the community. Spring brings desert wildflower blooms throughout the surrounding natural areas, creating breathtaking color displays that attract photographers and nature lovers. Fall delivers perfect temperatures for enjoying outdoor activities, with October through April offering some of the most pleasant weather found anywhere in the United States.
Florence maintains reasonable zoning regulations that balance property rights with community standards, with particular attention to preserving historic structures in the downtown district. The town includes areas within designated flood zones, particularly near the Gila River, with appropriate building requirements in those locations to mitigate potential flooding during seasonal events. The Historic District Advisory Commission oversees changes to buildings within the historic district, ensuring modifications maintain the authentic character that makes Florence special. Florence's Comprehensive Plan guides future development, ensuring strategic growth that preserves the community's historic character while accommodating appropriate new development in designated areas. Town ordinances protect residents from excessive noise, nuisance properties, and other potential quality of life concerns without becoming overly restrictive in most neighborhoods. The community's emergency preparedness plans address potential desert hazards including extreme heat events, dust storms, and flash flooding scenarios.
Correctional facilities represent Florence's largest employment sector, with multiple state, federal, and private prisons providing thousands of secure jobs with government benefits and stability. Local government, including Town of Florence and Pinal County offices, creates numerous professional positions in administration, public safety, and various governmental services. Healthcare employment continues to expand with medical offices and services establishing locations to serve the growing population throughout Pinal County. The education sector, including Florence Unified School District and nearby Central Arizona College, provides teaching and administrative positions with competitive benefits. Tourism related to Florence's historic assets generates retail, restaurant, and service positions, with potential for growth as heritage tourism expands. Future economic development opportunities include expanded retail and services supporting Anthem's growing population and potential manufacturing operations seeking affordable land with good transportation access. The reasonable commuting distance to Phoenix metropolitan employment centers offers additional job opportunities while maintaining affordable housing costs in Florence.
Property taxes in Florence remain moderate compared to many Arizona communities, with varying rates depending on location and included service districts. The overall cost of living in Florence registers approximately 15% below the national average, creating substantial financial advantages for residents compared to metropolitan areas. Housing costs represent the most significant savings, with median home prices and rental rates well below Phoenix metropolitan figures for comparable properties. Utility costs reflect the desert climate, with average summer electricity bills ranging between $200-300 for typical single-family homes, though newer energy-efficient construction can significantly reduce these costs. Water rates include tiered consumption pricing, encouraging conservation while maintaining reasonable costs for typical residential usage. The absence of HOA fees in many Florence neighborhoods provides additional monthly savings, though planned communities like Anthem include association fees funding their extensive amenities. Everyday expenses including groceries, dining, and services typically cost less than in metropolitan areas, stretching household budgets further for most families.
Florence operates under a council-manager form of government, with six council members and a directly elected mayor serving staggered four-year terms. The town provides comprehensive services including weekly trash collection, recycling options, and bulk item removal services several times annually. The Florence Police Department maintains strong community relationships, focusing on proactive crime prevention and community engagement throughout the diverse neighborhoods. The Florence Fire Department provides both fire protection and emergency medical services with professional firefighters trained in advanced life support techniques. The Public Works Department maintains town infrastructure, ensuring well-maintained roads, public spaces, and utility services throughout the community. The Florence Public Library offers extensive resources, children's programming, and computer access, serving as an important community resource for residents of all ages. Town leadership maintains a commitment to historic preservation while pursuing appropriate growth opportunities, working to enhance Florence's unique character and quality of life.