Why Move to Prescott Valley, AZ? Cooler Weather, Outdoor Adventures and a “Just Right” Lifestyle

If you love Arizona but could do without the surface-of-the-sun summers, Prescott Valley deserves a serious look. Sitting around 5,100 feet in elevation, it delivers noticeably cooler weather, quick access to year-round outdoor recreation and a growing community that still feels grounded. These are the biggest reasons buyers are choosing Prescott Valley, and why it might be the right move for you. 

1. Cooler Arizona temperatures (without leaving the state) 

Prescott Valley’s elevation does much of the heavy lifting. Summers are warm but far more comfortable than the Phoenix metro area. WeatherSpark reports that Prescott Valley averages daily highs of 89°F in July, compared to 106°F in Phoenix. That’s the difference between “let’s hike” and “let’s hide.” In December, highs average 52°F and lows 29°F, perfect for crisp winter walks.  

If you want the “cooler side of Arizona,” Prescott Valley offers relief while keeping the Arizona sunshine intact. 

2. Outdoor recreation just moments away 

If spending time outside matters to you, Prescott Valley is a great fit. The Prescott National Forest offers nearly 950 miles of trails, with hundreds of miles open to cyclists—ideal for hiking, mountain biking, trail running and exploring. 

The town itself boasts a diverse recreation system with more than 20 parks and plenty of ways to get outside close to home. This is the kind of place where it’s normal to squeeze in a trail before work and still make it home in time for dinner. 

3. High rankings in cost of living, safety and housing 

Cost of living depends on where you buy and current housing conditions, but third-party data helps set expectations: 

  • BestPlaces reports a Prescott Valley cost-of-living score of 114.1, slightly above the national average of 100.  
  • World Atlas ranked it among the top eight safest small communities in Arizona in 2025. 

For buyers who want a more local lens, the Yavapai County Assessor reported that Prescott Valley’s 2024 median home sale price was $499,000. 

4. Convenient location without the crowds 

Prescott Valley sits about 8 miles east of Prescott and roughly 85 miles north of Phoenix, allowing residents to conveniently access amenities without living on top of everyone. It’s also an ideal base for day trips across central and northern Arizona—to lakes, trails, events or just chasing better weather. 

5. A community feel that still has momentum 

Prescott Valley promotes a family-oriented lifestyle with modern infrastructure and recreation. And as more buyers seek livability and comfortable climates, the area continues to grow. In plain terms: it feels like a real town, not just a zip code. 

ĒCCO Homes Communities in Prescott Valley 

ĒCCO Homes offers two distinct new home communities in Prescott Valley, each tailored to different types of homeowners. 

Skyview by ĒCCO Homes 

Skyview is ideal for buyers who want space and flexibility. Homes include three-car garages as a standard feature and sit on larger homesites, with optional attached RV garages. This community appeals to move-up buyers, households with recreational vehicles or storage needs and anyone who values room both inside and outside the home. 

Jasper by ĒCCO Homes 

Jasper provides master-planned living with built-in amenities. Residents enjoy a community clubhouse and direct access to the Iron King Trail, a popular multi-use path for walking and biking. Jasper suits buyers who prioritize neighborhood amenities, walkability and an active lifestyle close to home.  

Prescott Valley offers a balance that is increasingly hard to find in Arizona. The area delivers cooler temperatures, abundant outdoor recreation and a strong sense of community—without the congestion of major metro areas. With Skyview and Jasper, ĒCCO Homes gives buyers the freedom to choose the lifestyle that fits them best. 

Explore new homes at Skyview and Jasper in Prescott Valley and discover a smarter way of living in northern Arizona.