What to know when moving to Prescott, AZ
TL;DR: Prescott at a Glance
- The Vibe:
- A community where 36.8% of residents have a bachelor's degree and about 30.6% are renters.
- The Major Draw:
- The median household income is $71,962, offering a solid financial base for residents.
- The Reality Check:
- With a median gross rent of $1,580, housing costs can be a bit steep.
- Commute:
- Only 0% of residents use public transit, indicating a car-dependent area.
- Top Tip:
- Budget for $1,580/month in rent to find a suitable place.
The 'Vibe' Check: Who Thrives Here?
Prescott is home to around 26,204 people, with a median household income of $71,962. Approximately 30.6% of the population rents, while 36.8% hold at least a bachelor's degree. The area experiences an annual average precipitation of about 12.3 inches and has no snow days, making it pleasant for outdoor activities.
Probably not your spot if you are looking for affordable housing, as the median rent is $1,580.
Your Money: Housing & Cost Snapshot
- The median gross rent is $1,580, which means you should prepare your budget accordingly.
- The median owner-occupied home value is $495,100, indicating a competitive housing market.
- About 36.8% of the population has a bachelor's degree, contributing to an educated community.
- The poverty rate stands at 12.0%, reflecting some economic challenges.
Source: U.S. Census Bureau, ACS 5-Year Data Profiles.
Crime & Safety: What the Numbers Say
In Arizona, the crime rates indicate a drop in property and violent crime over recent years. The state annual violent crime rate is 377.3 per 100,000, which is higher than the national average of 325.3. Meanwhile, property crime stands at 1,523.1 per 100,000, slightly below the national average of 1,546.9.
- Violent crime: 377.3 per 100,000 vs. national 325.3, with a 16.2% decrease since 2022.
- Property crime: 1,523.1 per 100,000 vs. national 1,546.9, decreasing by 29.2% since 2022.
- Notable trend: Homicides have decreased by 35.9% since 2022, with a rate of 4.6 per 100,000.
Source: FBI Crime Data Explorer (state-level summarized data for Arizona).
Schools & Higher Ed
Prescott has access to a total of 4 postsecondary institutions, providing various educational opportunities.
- Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University-Prescott
- Prescott College
- Yavapai College
- Arizona State University - Yavapai (located in Prescott Valley)
Source: NCES Postsecondary School Locations, U.S. Dept. of Education College Scorecard.
Weather & Getting Outside
Yavapai County experiences an annual average precipitation of about 12.3 inches over 56 rainy days, making it relatively dry. There are no snow days, which is nice for outdoor enthusiasts.
- Watson Lake Park (4.8 stars, 2,838 reviews)
- Heritage Park Zoological Sanctuary (4.7 stars, 1,904 reviews)
- Fain Park (4.7 stars, 1,262 reviews)
- Sharlot Hall Museum (4.8 stars, 945 reviews)
Sources: NOAA Climate Data Online, Google Places.
Jobs & the Local Economy
Yavapai County has a labor force of 107,733, with an unemployment rate of 3.8% as of December 2025.
- Unemployment rate: 3.8% in December 2025.
- Employed: 103,662 individuals.
- Labor force: 107,733 individuals.
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics, Local Area Unemployment Statistics.