About New Kingman-Butler
New Kingman-Butler is an unincorporated community and census-designated place (CDP) in Mohave County, Arizona, with a population of 13,432 as of 2024 estimates, up from 12,907 in 2020. Located directly north of Kingman along Historic Route 66 and Interstate 40, it is 105 miles southeast of Las Vegas, Nevada, and 180 miles northwest of Phoenix. Commonly referred to as "Butler" by residents, it is a significant part of the Kingman area, governed by Mohave County, with ongoing discussions about annexation into Kingman.
History and Origins
Named after Leroy Butler, the original land developer, New Kingman-Butler began as a real estate development called "New Kingman" in the mid-20th century. The area grew as a residential hub due to its proximity to Kingman, the county seat, and the economic pull of Historic Route 66. Despite its integration with Kingman’s community, it remains unincorporated, with multiple failed annexation attempts by the city. The community’s development was shaped by the region’s railroad history and the post-World War II boom along Route 66, fostering a suburban-rural character.
Geography and Environment
Located at 35°15′52″N 114°00′33″W, New Kingman-Butler spans 4.97 square miles, all land, at an elevation of 3,337 feet. Situated in the Hualapai Valley between the Cerbat and Hualapai Mountains, it offers scenic desert and mountain views. The semi-arid climate features hot summers, mild winters, and minimal precipitation, with air quality good 98% of the year (AQI 61.8 in 2023). The area has a significantly higher earthquake risk than the Arizona average, high UV exposure, and occasional flash flood risks in washes. Indoor radon levels are moderate (2–4 pCi/L).
Demographics and Economy
New Kingman-Butler has a median household income of $42,541 and a median home value of $93,900, more affordable than 85% of Arizona neighborhoods. Housing includes mobile homes (median value $79,590), detached houses ($204,061), and townhouses ($153,564), with a 65.2% homeownership rate. The median age is 48.8, with 77.9% White (Non-Hispanic), 7.16% White (Hispanic), and 5.44% Two+ (Hispanic) residents. The poverty rate is 21.8%. The economy relies on commuting to Kingman for jobs in retail, healthcare, and manufacturing, with Mohave Community College as a key employer. The average commute is 21.7 minutes, with 2 cars per household.
Did You Know? New Kingman-Butler is poised for economic growth with the construction of Interstate 11, connecting Las Vegas to Phoenix, potentially bringing manufacturing and distribution jobs to the area.
Education and Community Services
New Kingman-Butler is served by the Kingman Unified School District, with schools like Cerbat Elementary (C- grade), Kingman Middle (C grade), and Kingman High (C grade, noted for its Career and Technology Academy). Mohave Community College’s Neal Campus, located in the community, offers degrees in nursing, welding, and fine arts, awarding 918 degrees in 2022. Emergency services are provided by the Golden Valley Fire Department and Mohave County Sheriff’s Office, with Kingman Regional Medical Center 5 miles south. Residents access Kingman for libraries, shopping, and dining.
Recreation and Attractions
- Neal Butler Community Park: 18 acres with baseball fields, a fitness path, and a dog park, popular for local recreation.
- Route 66 Museum: 5 miles south in Kingman, showcasing the history of America’s Mother Road with exhibits and memorabilia.
- Cerbat Cliffs Golf Course: 5 miles south, a public course with private lessons, a pro shop, and scenic desert views.
- Hualapai Mountain Park: 15 miles southeast, offering hiking, camping, and cabins in a pine-forested retreat.
Lifestyle and Appeal
New Kingman-Butler offers a suburban-rural lifestyle with a population density of 2,703 people per square mile, appealing to families and retirees. The community has a low cost of living (86.8 vs. U.S. average 100) and a moderate walkability near schools and parks. Local dining includes Grandpa’s Kitchen for breakfast classics and El Tio Taco Shop for Mexican fare. Its proximity to Historic Route 66 and future Interstate 11 enhances its appeal, though summer heat and limited public transit require adaptation.
Plan Your Visit
Reach New Kingman-Butler via Interstate 40 or Historic Route 66 from Kingman (5 miles south) or Las Vegas (105 miles northwest). Visit Neal Butler Community Park, explore the Route 66 Museum in Kingman, or hike in Hualapai Mountain Park. Kingman offers dining, shopping, and Amtrak service to Los Angeles or Chicago. For extended trips, the Grand Canyon Skywalk is 75 miles northeast, and Lake Havasu City is 60 miles south. New Kingman-Butler is a gateway to Arizona’s desert heritage.