Flagstaff
cityFlagstaff is a city located in northern Arizona, serving as the county seat of Coconino County. Situated near the southwestern edge of the Colorado Plateau and the San Francisco volcanic field, it lies within the world's largest contiguous ponderosa pine forest. As of 2020, the city had a population of 76,831, which has grown to an estimated 77,763 in 2026. Known as the "City of Seven Wonders," Flagstaff offers a unique blend of outdoor adventure, historical significance, and cultural attractions. Flagstaff's economy is diverse, with key sectors including tourism, education, healthcare, and distribution. It is home to Northern Arizona University, the U.S. Naval Observatory Flagstaff Station, and the U.S. Geological Survey. The city serves as a regional hub for healthcare services and is a growing center for medical and biotechnology manufacturing. Its location along Route 66 and proximity to the Grand Canyon, Arizona Snowbowl, and Meteor Crater contribute significantly to its tourism industry. What makes Flagstaff distinctive is its rich history, stunning natural surroundings, and high quality of life. Founded in 1876 and named after a flag-raising ceremony, Flagstaff has evolved from a frontier settlement into a vibrant city with a strong sense of community. Its commitment to preserving its cultural heritage while embracing innovation makes it a unique destination in the American Southwest.
Flagstaff, Arizona
- Classification
- City
- Country
- United States
- County
- Coconino
- Region
- Northern Arizona
- Elevation
- 7,000 ft
- Total Area
- 66.08 sq mi
- Land Area
- 66.03 sq mi
- Water Area
- 0.05 sq mi
- Latitude
- 35.18056
- Longitude
- -111.62
- Climate
- Flagstaff has a variable climate with cold, snowy winters and mild summers. It experiences a monsoon season in late summer and averages 266 sunny days per year.
- Notable Features
- San Francisco Peaks · Mount Elden · Humphreys Peak · Colorado Plateau · Ponderosa Pine Forest
- Neighboring Areas
- Sedona · Grand Canyon National Park · Phoenix
- Population (2020)
- 76,831
- Est. Population (2026)
- 77,763
- Median Age
- 25.9
- Median Income
- $71,512
- Poverty Rate
- 18.2%
- Owner-Occupied
- 42.3%
- Racial & Ethnic Composition
- The racial composition of Flagstaff includes a majority of White residents, followed by Hispanic and American Indian populations.
- Government Type
- Council-Manager
- Governing Body
- City Council
- School District
- Flagstaff Unified School District
- Municipal Services
- Police · Fire · Public Works · Parks & Recreation · Library











- Unemployment Rate
- 5.9%
- Economic Profile
- University Town · Tourism · Distribution Hub · Medical and Biotech Manufacturing
- Employment Sectors
- Educational Services · Health Care & Social Assistance · Accommodation & Food Services
- Major Employers
- Northern Arizona University · Flagstaff Medical Center · Nestlé Purina PetCare · U.S. Naval Observatory Flagstaff Station · U.S. Geological Survey
- School Districts
- Flagstaff Unified School District
- Colleges & Universities
- Northern Arizona University · Coconino Community College · Indian Bible College
- Transportation
- Interstate 17 · Interstate 40 · Flagstaff Pulliam Airport · Buses · Rail Service
- Utilities
- Municipal Water · Power · Fiber/Broadband
- Major Facilities
- Flagstaff Medical Center · Flagstaff Pulliam Airport · High Country Conference Center
- Outdoor Access
- Yes
- Major Recreation Areas
- Grand Canyon National Park · Arizona Snowbowl · Walnut Canyon National Monument · Sunset Crater Volcano National Monument · Meteor Crater
- Parks & Trails
- Flagstaff Urban Trail System (FUTS) · Buffalo Park · Bushmaster Park
- Founded
- 1876
- Incorporated
- 1928
- Named After
- A flag-raising ceremony on July 4, 1876, where a pine tree was used as a flagpole.
- Historical Significance
- Flagstaff has played a significant role in the development of Northern Arizona, serving as a hub for lumber, ranching, and tourism. It is also known for its contributions to astronomy and its role in preparing astronauts for the Apollo missions.
- Key Events
- Settlement by the Sinagua people · Establishment as a modern settlement in 1876 · Arrival of the Atlantic and Pacific Railroad in 1882 · Founding of Northern Arizona Normal School in 1899 · Discovery of Pluto at Lowell Observatory in 1930
