Featured Arizona Cities and Counties

Ahwatukee Fountain Hills Guadalupe Maricopa County Mesa Queen Creek Scottsdale Sun Lakes Tempe

Arizona Quick Facts

Located in the southwestern region of the country, Arizona is a state known for its desert climate, with hot summers and mild winters. The state is home to more than 6 million residents. Its capital and largest city is Phoenix, and other major cities include Tucson, Mesa, Glendale, Chandler and Scottsdale. Arizona was the the last of the states in the continental U.S. to garner its statehood, becoming the 48th state in 1912. Though the state is commonly noted for its exceptionally hot weather, it actually can get quite cool in the northern part of the state, with mountain ranges and forests. The state is one of the fastest-growing in terms of population. The state is considered one of the "four corners" states, referring to its border with Colorado, New Mexico and Utah, and is in the southernmost part of the country, sharing nearly 400 miles of its border with the Sonora and Baja states of Mexico. In terms of land area, Arizona is the sixth-largest state in the U.S. The most famous attraction in the state is the Grand Canyon, one of the seven natural wonders of the world. The state is a major copper producer, and though not as much is mined here as once was, it still contributes nearly two-thirds of America's copper.

The state government is Arizona's largest employer, and Wal-Mart is the state's largest private employer. There are seven major airports providing access in and out of the area. The state is known as a golfer's haven; the year-round warm weather allows golfers to enjoy the many courses here throughout the seasons. The are three public state universities here, as well as a number of private schools and community colleges. The warm weather here also allows Arizona to be a popular home for many of major- and minor-leage baseball's spring training and winter leagues. The state is home to two of its own professional sports team, baseball's Diamondbacks and football's Cardinals, as well as a number of smaller teams in other leagues and sports. Arizona is a recognized center of Native American art and culture, and museums, galleries and boutiques abound throughout the state.