Payson Arizona
Payson is a town at the convergence of three roads in Gila County, Arizona. Its central location makes it the “heart” of Arizona and it is a little more than an hour’s drive from the Phoenix metropolitan area. Payson is renowned for it beauty, recreational opportunities and, more recently, its dynamic business environment. Its neighboring communities include Pine and Star Valley, Arizona and also within Gila County are the smaller communities of Rye and Strawberry. It was founded in 1884 and incorporated in 1973.
Payson presently has a population of 15,120 as of 2004 U.S. Census. The area enjoys a mild four-season climate which attracts visitors all-year round. It offers the atmosphere of rural America with more than enough amenities of a metropolis together with its rich western heritage. The current local economy is dominated tourism, retirement and construction industries and an increasing emphasis on service firms and manufacturing. It is also known for its rodeo which is considered the oldest continuous rodeo in the world.
