RANK #628 / 996 · POP 66,054 · AZ
PROJECTED GROWTH: +0.3%
Apache County, Arizona, stands out for its expansive natural beauty and significant Native American heritage, with over 75% of its population identifying as American Indian. The county is home to parts of the Navajo Nation, Fort Apache Indian Reservation, and Zuni Indian Reservation, and includes landmarks like Petrified Forest National Park and Canyon de Chelly National Monument. Located in the northeast corner of Arizona, it is a large, rectangular county, roughly 211 miles long. While specific commute times to major cities vary by location within the vast county, public transportation options are limited, with some bus services connecting to nearby areas. The community offers a rural feel, with diverse landscapes ranging from high desert plains to mountainous terrain, providing opportunities for hiking, fishing, and winter sports in areas like the Apache-Sitgreaves National Forests.
Life in Apache County is characterized by its rural setting and strong community ties, particularly within its Native American populations. The economy is supported by sectors such as healthcare and education, with major employers including regional hospitals and school districts. Recent economic developments in the county have focused on diversifying beyond traditional industries, with investments flowing into energy sectors, including the repurposing of coal plants through conversion to natural gas. Additionally, efforts are underway to improve high-speed internet infrastructure, which could support remote workers and further economic growth.
Contracting economy
Prices declining
Housing looks undervalued at 1.8x — home prices are low relative to local economic output. Climate and geography support a structural premium. The typical U.S. county is 4–6x.
Source: Redfin · Census BPS — Browse sales on Redfin →
| PROJECT | AMOUNT | STATUS |
|---|---|---|
|
Black Ridge Renewable Project (Wind, Solar, Battery Storage)
Triple Oak Power
|
$1,150M | Proposed |
|
Lava Run Wind Project
Repsol Renewables (formerly ConnectGen)
|
$1,000M | Proposed |
|
Juniper Spring Solar + Storage
EDF Power Solutions
|
$500M | Planned |
|
Lava Run Solar Project
Repsol Renewables (formerly ConnectGen)
|
$450M | Proposed |
|
Springerville Generating Station Unit 4 Conversion to Natural Gas
Salt River Project (SRP)
|
$45M | Approved |
Source: public records, news, corporate announcements. Amounts are estimates where noted.
Bars show percentile rank among all 996 counties.
Apache County has a Boom Town Index score of 37/100, ranking #628 among 996 U.S. counties. With job growth at -1.7% and a median household income of $37,483, it faces some economic headwinds compared to faster-growing counties.
The median home value in Apache County is $62,400 with median rent at $635/month. The income-to-home-value ratio is 0.6007, which is more affordable than the national average.
Population growth: -0.6% year-over-year. Job growth: -1.7%. Home values changed -0.0% in the past 12 months.