Apache Junction
cityApache Junction is a city located in both Pinal and Maricopa Counties, Arizona, situated in the eastern part of the Phoenix-Mesa-Chandler Metropolitan Area. The city is named for the junction of the Apache Trail and Old West Highway. As of 2020, the population was 38,499. Apache Junction is known for its proximity to the Superstition Mountains, a popular destination for outdoor activities and the legendary location of the Lost Dutchman's Gold Mine. The local economy benefits from tourism related to the Superstition Mountains and the city's location as a gateway to recreational areas in the Tonto National Forest. Key sectors include retail, healthcare, and services supporting the seasonal population. The city is actively seeking to expand its economic base by attracting advanced manufacturing, medical facilities, and tourism-oriented development. Apache Junction's identity is closely tied to its Wild West heritage and the natural beauty of the surrounding desert landscape. The Superstition Mountain Museum and Goldfield Ghost Town offer glimpses into the area's past. The city provides a mix of outdoor recreation opportunities and community events, making it a distinctive place to live and visit.
Apache Junction, Arizona
- Classification
- City
- FIPS Code
- 04-02830
- Country
- United States
- County
- Pinal
- Region
- Phoenix-Mesa-Chandler Metropolitan Area
- Elevation
- 1,700 ft
- Total Area
- 35.08 sq mi
- Land Area
- 35.07 sq mi
- Water Area
- 0.012 sq mi
- Latitude
- 33.415051
- Longitude
- -111.549576
- Climate
- Hot semi-arid climate typical of the Sonoran Desert
- Notable Features
- Superstition Mountains · Goldfield Mountains · Lost Dutchman's Gold Mine
- Neighboring Areas
- Mesa · Gold Canyon
- Population (2020)
- 38,499
- Est. Population (2024)
- 41,058
- Median Age
- 53.1
- Median Income
- $60,975
- Poverty Rate
- 10.56%
- Family Households
- 60.5%
- Owner-Occupied
- 79.1%
- Racial & Ethnic Composition
- The racial makeup of Apache Junction includes approximately 77.3% White, 19% Hispanic, 5% Two or more races, 2% Asian, and 1% African American.
- Government Type
- Council-Manager
- Governing Body
- City Council
- Body Size
- 7 members
- School District
- Apache Junction Unified School District
- Municipal Services
- Police · Fire · Parks & Recreation
- Unemployment Rate
- 7.8%
- Economic Profile
- Residential · Tourism · Commercial
- Employment Sectors
- Public Sector · Manufacturing · Medical · Retail
- Major Employers
- City of Apache Junction · Apache Junction Unified School District · WW Clyde
- Schools
- 7
- Students
- 2,710
- Student-Teacher Ratio
- 19:1
- School Districts
- Apache Junction Unified School District
- Colleges & Universities
- Central Arizona College
- Transportation
- U.S. Route 60 · Arizona State Route 88 · Proximity to Phoenix-Mesa Gateway Airport
- Utilities
- Municipal water · Fiber/broadband
- Major Facilities
- Central Arizona College (Superstition Mountain Campus)
- Outdoor Access
- Yes
- Major Recreation Areas
- Superstition Mountains · Lost Dutchman State Park · Tonto National Forest
- Parks & Trails
- City Parks · Hiking Trails
- Incorporated
- 1978
- Named After
- The junction of the Apache Trail and Old West Highway
- Historical Significance
- Apache Junction's history is rooted in mining, ranching, and the legends of the Old West, particularly the story of the Lost Dutchman's Gold Mine.
- Key Events
- Establishment of the Apache Trail in the early 1900s · Filming of Western movies at Apacheland Movie Ranch · Incorporation as a city on November 24, 1978