About Mohave Valley
Mohave Valley is an unincorporated community and census-designated place (CDP) in Mohave County, Arizona, with a population of 2,693 as of the 2020 census, up from 2,616 in 2010. Located along Arizona State Route 95 on the Fort Mojave Indian Reservation, it sits in the Mohave Valley along the Colorado River, 10 miles south of Bullhead City and 5 miles north of Needles, California. Known for its agricultural heritage and recreational opportunities, Mohave Valley is a growing community with ties to the Fort Mojave Indian Tribe.
History and Origins
Mohave Valley’s history is rooted in the Mojave people, who have lived along the Colorado River for centuries, cultivating crops like corn and beans. The area saw European settlement in the 19th century with the establishment of Fort Mojave in 1859, followed by irrigation projects in the early 20th century that spurred agriculture. The community developed as a farming hub, with cotton, alfalfa, and citrus as key crops. Incorporated into the Fort Mojave Indian Reservation, Mohave Valley grew with residential and recreational development, benefiting from its proximity to Bullhead City and Laughlin, Nevada.
Geography and Environment
Located at 34°55′57″N 114°35′19″W, Mohave Valley spans 14.0 square miles, with 13.9 square miles of land and 0.1 square miles of water, at an elevation of 485 feet. Bordered by the Colorado River to the west and the Black Mountains to the east, it features fertile riverfront land and desert landscapes. The semi-arid climate includes hot summers, mild winters, and minimal precipitation, with good air quality. The area has a moderate earthquake risk, high UV exposure, and occasional flash flood risks due to nearby washes.
Demographics and Economy
Mohave Valley has a median household income of $57,110 and a median home value of $191,800, more affordable than 65% of Arizona neighborhoods. Housing includes single-family homes, mobile homes, and RVs, with 78.3% of residents owning their properties. The median age is 47.9, with a diverse population: 81.6% White (Non-Hispanic), 12.7% Hispanic, and 3.8% Native American. The economy employs 1,050 people, with key industries in retail trade (20%), healthcare (18%), and construction (15%). The average commute to Bullhead City is 15–20 minutes.
Did You Know? Mohave Valley’s fertile lands along the Colorado River support a variety of crops, including cotton and alfalfa, making it one of the few agricultural hubs in Mohave County.
Education and Community Services
Mohave Valley is served by the Mohave Valley Elementary School District and Colorado River Union High School District, with schools like Mohave Valley Junior High and River Valley High School within 5 miles. Emergency services are provided by the Fort Mohave Fire Department and Mohave County Sheriff’s Office, with Western Arizona Regional Medical Center in Bullhead City (10 miles north). The community offers a small library, tribal services, and local markets, with residents accessing Bullhead City or Needles for major shopping and dining.
Recreation and Attractions
- Colorado River: Adjacent to Mohave Valley, offering boating, fishing, jet skiing, and kayaking, with nearby Jack Smith Park for picnics.
- Willow Valley Marina: 2 miles south, providing boat rentals and access to Lake Mohave for water-based recreation.
- Laughlin, Nevada: 12 miles north, accessible via Bullhead City, featuring casinos, entertainment, and riverside dining.
- Black Mountain Trails: 10 miles east, offering hiking, off-roading, and scenic views of the desert landscape.
Lifestyle and Appeal
Mohave Valley offers a suburban-rural lifestyle with a population density of 193 people per square mile, appealing to families, retirees, and outdoor enthusiasts. The community is moderately walkable near tribal facilities, with a low crime rate and 88% health coverage (20% Medicare). Events like tribal cultural festivals and local markets foster community spirit. Its agricultural base, river access, and proximity to urban centers make it a draw, though summer heat requires adaptation.
Plan Your Visit
Reach Mohave Valley via Arizona State Route 95 from Bullhead City (10 miles north) or Needles, California (5 miles south). Enjoy boating on the Colorado River, visit Willow Valley Marina, or explore Laughlin’s casinos. Bullhead City offers dining and shopping, while Lake Havasu City is 65 miles south for extended trips. Las Vegas is 100 miles northwest. Mohave Valley is a scenic destination for river recreation and desert living.