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Prescott Valley, nestled in the heart of central Arizona, is a hidden gem quickly becoming a favorite destination for families and retirees. It offers new residents an inviting opportunity to build a life they’ll love with its stunning landscapes, friendly community, and perfect balance of modern amenities and small-town charm.
If you’re considering making Prescott Valley your new home, or if you’ve recently arrived, this guide will help you settle in and discover what makes this town so special.
1. Get to Know Prescott Valley
Location and Climate
Prescott Valley is located about 85 miles north of Phoenix. At an elevation of around 5,000 feet, it offers a milder climate than the desert below. Summers are warm, while winters bring cool temperatures with the occasional light snow. The climate is perfect for enjoying four seasons without extreme weather.
A Growing Community
Prescott Valley has grown steadily over the past decade but has retained its close-knit community feel. With just over 50,000 residents, the area offers the perfect mix of small-town vibes and a growing, thriving economy.
2. Things to Do in Prescott Valley
Whether you enjoy outdoor adventures, arts, or family-friendly activities, there’s something for everyone here.
Outdoor Adventures
Nature lovers will feel at home with easy access to hiking trails, fishing spots, and stunning mountain views. Popular outdoor spots include:
- Glassford Hill Trail – Enjoy spectacular views at the top of this dormant volcano.
- Fain Park – A peaceful retreat with a small lake for fishing, hiking trails, and picnic areas.
- Lynx Lake (just a short drive away) – Perfect for kayaking, fishing, or a serene lakeside walk.
Entertainment and Culture
Prescott Valley boasts vibrant entertainment options as well. Check out these local attractions:
- Findlay Toyota Center – This arena hosts concerts, sporting events, and community activities year-round.
- Harkins Theatres Prescott Valley 14 – Your go-to spot for catching the latest blockbuster movies.
- Prescott Valley Public Library – A modern library with community events, learning resources, and a stunning rooftop terrace.
Shop Local
Strong in economic development, the community attracts retailers and restaurants such as Kohl’s, Dick’s Sporting Goods, T.J. Maxx, Chick-Fil-A, Sprouts, Hobby Lobby, Culvers, Popeyes, Kane’s, Buffalo Wild Wings and a host of independent food and shopping choices.
Community Events
Keep an eye on Prescott Valley’s Community calendar! Annual events like the Valley of Lights Holiday Drive-Through and the Prescott Valley Days Festival bring neighbors together and create lasting memories.
3. Essential Resources for New Residents
Housing
Prescott Valley offers a variety of housing options, from quaint single-family homes to modern apartments. Popular neighborhoods include:
- Granville – Known for its family-friendly vibe and access to parks and schools.
- Pronghorn Ranch – A quiet community offering larger lots and upscale amenities.
- StoneRidge – Perfect for golfers, featuring an 18-hole championship course.
Schools
Families will find excellent educational opportunities in the area, including the Humboldt Unified School District and several charter school options. Prescott Valley is also conveniently close to Yavapai College, which offers programs for both traditional students and adult learners.
Healthcare
For peace of mind, top-tier healthcare facilities, including the Dignity Health East Campus, are readily available in Prescott Valley.
Prescott Valley’s History
Gold in Prescott Valley: The Walker party discovered gold along Lynx Creek in 1863. In the 1930s, a gold dredging operation, the Doodle Bug Diggings, was farther east in Lynx Creek Canyon. The Lynx Creek placers produced a recorded 29,000 troy ounces of gold. Estimates of the actual amount of gold produced were 80,000 troy ounces, worth about $85 million at today’s prices.
Name Change: Prescott Valley was formerly known as Lonesome Valley. Ranchers settled the area in the 1880s, raising beef to supply the miners and new settlers. The Fain family still ranches in the valley.
Fain Park: Thomas Gibson Barlow-Massicks arrived in the area in the early 1890s and built the historic “Castle” in Fain Park. The Castle still stands in Fain Park today. Messick’s had a hydraulic gold mining operation in Lynx Creek Canyon and built the company mining camp just east of his Victorian home, a.k.a. the Castle.
Incorporation: In the mid-1960s, a real-estate company from Phoenix purchased land 10 miles east of Prescott, known as Lonesome Valley. In 1966, representatives from Prescott Valley Inc. began traveling to the Midwest to sell home lots. By 1978, more than 1,500 residents lived in the unincorporated area now known as Prescott Valley. In 1978, 80% of the voters of Prescott Valley voted for incorporation as a town.
Great Place to Call Home
Many people have chosen to buy homes and relocate to Prescott Valley because of its strong work ethic, solid educational system, family values, and positive outlook under sunny Arizona skies. The mild climate, convenient location, and surrounding lakes, fishing, and hiking trails make this popular community attractive for families and retirees.
