About Arizona Village
Arizona Village is a census-designated place (CDP) located on the Fort Mojave Indian Reservation in Mohave County, Arizona. With a population of 1,057 as of the 2020 census, up from 946 in 2010 and 351 in 2000, this small but growing community is situated along the Colorado River, offering residents and visitors a unique blend of desert tranquility and water-based recreation.
History and Cultural Significance
The area around Arizona Village has a rich history tied to the Fort Mojave Indian Tribe. The first recorded European to visit was Spanish explorer Melchor Díaz in 1540, who documented meeting the Pipa Aha Macav, or "People by the River," from which the name "Mojave" (or "Mohave") is derived. The tribe retains the traditional Spanish spelling "Mojave," pronounced "Moh-hah-vee," while the community uses the modern English spelling. The Fort Mojave Indian Reservation, established in 1870, encompasses parts of Arizona, California, and Nevada, with Arizona Village serving as a key residential area.
Geography and Location
Arizona Village is located at 34°51′13″N 114°35′3″W, covering 1.6 square miles of land. It is bordered to the southwest by the Colorado River, across from Needles, California, and to the north by the Mohave Valley CDP. Arizona State Route 95 touches the northwest corner, providing easy access to Bullhead City (20 miles north) and Needles (6 miles south). The community’s riverside location makes it a gateway to water activities and a hub for those seeking affordable housing near urban centers like Bullhead City and Laughlin, Nevada.
Demographics and Economy
Arizona Village is a lower-middle-income community, with a median real estate price of $297,155, more affordable than 63.1% of Arizona neighborhoods. The average rental price is $1,179, lower than 98.1% of Arizona neighborhoods, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious residents. The community’s housing primarily consists of medium-sized (three or four-bedroom) mobile homes and single-family homes, mostly built between 1970 and 1999.
Residents are diverse, with 27.7% identifying German ancestry, 23.3% Spanish, 13.9% Native American, 10.9% Irish, and 8.7% English. Occupations are varied, with 36.5% in clerical, assistant, or tech support roles and 26.3% in sales and service jobs. However, 32.8% of residents live below the poverty line, including 27.9% of children, reflecting economic challenges.
Did You Know? Arizona Village’s proximity to the Colorado River makes it a prime spot for water sports, with nearby Needles Marina offering boat rentals and fishing opportunities, attracting both locals and tourists.
Education and Community Services
Arizona Village is served by the Mohave Valley Elementary School District and the Colorado River Union High School District. High school students can attend River Valley High School, the Academy of Building Industries Public Charter High School in Fort Mohave, or Aha Macav High School on the Fort Mojave Indian Reservation, providing diverse educational options. The Fort Mojave-Mesa Fire Department ensures community safety, and the Mohave County Library system offers resources through nearby branches.
Recreation and Attractions
- Colorado River Activities: Boating, fishing, and jet skiing are popular, with access points like Needles Marina and the Havasu National Wildlife Refuge nearby for birdwatching and nature walks.
- Fort Mojave Indian Reservation: Explore cultural events and tribal history, including the annual Fort Mojave Indian Days celebration, featuring traditional dances and crafts.
- Proximity to Laughlin, Nevada: Just 16 miles away, Laughlin offers casinos, dining, and entertainment, making Arizona Village a convenient base for day trips.
Lifestyle and Appeal
Arizona Village offers a rural, close-knit lifestyle with a low population density (909 people per square mile). Most residents own their homes, and the average commute time is 15–30 minutes, often to nearby Bullhead City or Needles. The community’s affordability, combined with its riverside location and access to outdoor activities, makes it ideal for families, retirees, and outdoor enthusiasts. However, moderate earthquake risks and high UV exposure are considerations for residents.
Plan Your Visit
Reach Arizona Village via Arizona State Route 95 from Bullhead City or Interstate 40 from Needles. Enjoy a day on the Colorado River, explore the Fort Mojave Indian Reservation’s cultural offerings, or take a short drive to Laughlin for entertainment. Arizona Village is a welcoming community that blends affordability, natural beauty, and cultural heritage, perfect for those seeking a quiet desert escape with modern conveniences nearby.