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Daily Mail
4 days ago
- Business
- Daily Mail
Small town in Arizona sees population influx
By Published: | As the population of Arizona's capital city soars, around two and half hours north of Phoenix, another city with milder weather and a small–town vibe is facing it's own boom in popularity. Prescott, Arizona, has seen a steady increase in population in recent years, with the number of residents sky rocketing 6.16 percent from 46,056 in 2020 to an estimated 48,891 inhabitants in 2025. Prescott is certainly benefitting from the spillover of Phoenix's migration swell. The capital is not only the most populous city in Arizona, but also the fifth most populous city in the country. Between 2023 and 2024, 85,000 new residents flocked to Phoenix, largely because of its comparably low cost of living and thriving job market. With a rich history as a frontier gold and silver mining town, Prescott has now become a sought–after spot for second homes – and a popular weekend, summer and vacation destination for Phoenix locals. Prescott's City Manager Dallin Kimble told the Daily Mail that the city is unique in many ways. While only 90 minutes from Phoenix, it offers a far milder climate and four seasons. The pleasant year–round weather makes Prescott a perfect place to enjoy all the outdoor recreational activities it has to offer – including high lakes and many miles of hiking and biking, Kimble explained. The City Manager also touted Prescott's rich history and culture as attractive qualities the community has to offer. Kimble attributed Prescott's steady rise in population to families that come and grow there, as well retirees - 'especially from California and the Phoenix area' who decide to settle down there. 'We're focusing on particular businesses and industries that we hope are contributing to that,' Kimble said of the growing population. 'For example, we've got three colleges in town, and we're trying to encourage certain industries', he said, specifying aerospace, advanced manufacturing and tech as examples. The median age of residents in Prescott is 60.5 – which, Prescott realtor Gwen Holloway explains, is because many of the houses being sold are second home to clients whose primary home is in Phoenix or surrounding areas. Phoenix residents in a post–pandemic era are still favoring home–life, which means city dwellers are opting for a small–town vibe as opposed to the hustle and bustle of a state capital – especially as employees have more opportunities to work from home, and the flexibility that comes with that. Prescott is the ideal location for these people. With a blend of small–town charm, Western history and scenic beauty – the slower pace of life offered in Prescott is highly attractive to those who are getting older and growing tired of city life. The downtown area, with its historic courthouse and surrounding shops, contributes to the classic small–town feel. Residents often describe a strong sense of community and neighborly connection – in fact, the city is often referred to as 'Everybody's Hometown', because people find it reminds them of where they grew up. The downtown Prescott area features Victorian homes, saloons along 'Whiskey Row' – a block of historic bars, once a popular spot for cowboys and outlaws – and other retro sites that harken back to the Old West. Surrounded by the Prescott National Forest, the city offers ample opportunities for hiking, biking and horseback riding. The area features five lakes, providing options for kayaking, canoeing, fishing and enjoying scenic views. Prescott's mild seasons and fresh air make it an appealing destination for those trying to escape the stifling heat and humidity of Phoenix – where there are 111 days of scorching temperatures above 100°F each year. But it's not just Phoenix people are flocking to Prescott from. Brenda Duncan Cusick, 61, left Moorpark, California , a town an hour northwest of Los Angeles after nearly two decades in favor of the Arizona city. Cusick's mortgage payment plunged from a staggering $3,309 to just $1,672 monthly, and she's now living her retirement dream in a 'Hallmark movie' city. When COVID–19 unleashed remote work possibilities in 2020, Cusick and her husband took a chance on a new life. They sold their California home and joined the wave of retirees flocking to more affordable Arizona. The major financial relief was immediate. After downsizing from their 4–bedroom, 3–bathroom Moorpark home to a 3–bedroom, 2–bathroom property in Prescott, their mortgage payment plunged from a staggering $3,309 to just $1,672 monthly. Their utility and HOA bills in Arizona now average a mere $373 monthly, compared to the $400–$1,200 they routinely paid in California. And Cusick says the move has completely transformed her quality of life. 'It's a very western town in the mountains of Arizona,' she said. She added that the downtown area reminds her of a Hallmark movie. Cusick is one of many California residents making the migration from the Golden State to Arizona. In 2023 alone, 54,222 people relocated from California to Arizona, representing over 20 percent of all in–migration to the state.
Daily Mail
5 days ago
- Business
- Daily Mail
Red state metropolis with small-town vibe receives huge population influx as nearby city spillover spreads
As the population of Arizona 's capital city soars, around two and half hours north of Phoenix, another city with milder weather and a small–town vibe is facing it's own boom in popularity. Prescott, Arizona, has seen a steady increase in population in recent years, with the number of residents sky rocketing 6.16 percent from 46,056 in 2020 to an estimated 48,891 inhabitants in 2025. Prescott is certainly benefitting from the spillover of Phoenix's migration swell. The capital is not only the most populous city in Arizona, but also the fifth most populous city in the country. Between 2023 and 2024, 85,000 new residents flocked to Phoenix, largely because of its comparably low cost of living and thriving job market. With a rich history as a frontier gold and silver mining town, Prescott has now become a sought–after spot for second homes – and a popular weekend, summer and vacation destination for Phoenix locals. Prescott's City Manager Dallin Kimble told the Daily Mail that the city is unique in many ways. While only 90 minutes from Phoenix, it offers a far milder climate and four seasons. The pleasant year–round weather makes Prescott a perfect place to enjoy all the outdoor recreational activities it has to offer – including high lakes and many miles of hiking and biking, Kimble explained. The City Manager also touted Prescott's rich history and culture as attractive qualities the community has to offer. Kimble attributed Prescott's steady rise in population to families that come and grow there, as well retirees - 'especially from California and the Phoenix area' who decide to settle down there. 'We're focusing on particular businesses and industries that we hope are contributing to that,' Kimble said of the growing population. 'For example, we've got three colleges in town, and we're trying to encourage certain industries', he said, specifying aerospace, advanced manufacturing and tech as examples. The median age of residents in Prescott is 60.5 – which, Prescott realtor Gwen Holloway explains, is because many of the houses being sold are second home to clients whose primary home is in Phoenix or surrounding areas. Phoenix residents in a post–pandemic era are still favoring home–life, which means city dwellers are opting for a small–town vibe as opposed to the hustle and bustle of a state capital – especially as employees have more opportunities to work from home, and the flexibility that comes with that. Prescott is the ideal location for these people. With a blend of small–town charm, Western history and scenic beauty – the slower pace of life offered in Prescott is highly attractive to those who are getting older and growing tired of city life. The downtown area, with its historic courthouse and surrounding shops, contributes to the classic small–town feel. Residents often describe a strong sense of community and neighborly connection – in fact, the city is often referred to as 'Everybody's Hometown', because people find it reminds them of where they grew up. The downtown Prescott area features Victorian homes, saloons along 'Whiskey Row' – a block of historic bars, once a popular spot for cowboys and outlaws – and other retro sites that harken back to the Old West. Surrounded by the Prescott National Forest, the city offers ample opportunities for hiking, biking and horseback riding. The area features five lakes, providing options for kayaking, canoeing, fishing and enjoying scenic views. Prescott's mild seasons and fresh air make it an appealing destination for those trying to escape the stifling heat and humidity of Phoenix – where there are 111 days of scorching temperatures above 100°F each year. But it's not just Phoenix people are flocking to Prescott from. Brenda Duncan Cusick, 61, left Moorpark, California, a town an hour northwest of Los Angeles after nearly two decades in favor of the Arizona city. Cusick's mortgage payment plunged from a staggering $3,309 to just $1,672 monthly, and she's now living her retirement dream in a 'Hallmark movie' city. When COVID–19 unleashed remote work possibilities in 2020, Cusick and her husband took a chance on a new life. They sold their California home and joined the wave of retirees flocking to more affordable Arizona. The major financial relief was immediate. After downsizing from their 4–bedroom, 3–bathroom Moorpark home to a 3–bedroom, 2–bathroom property in Prescott, their mortgage payment plunged from a staggering $3,309 to just $1,672 monthly. Their utility and HOA bills in Arizona now average a mere $373 monthly, compared to the $400–$1,200 they routinely paid in California. And Cusick says the move has completely transformed her quality of life. 'It's a very western town in the mountains of Arizona,' she said. She added that the downtown area reminds her of a Hallmark movie. Cusick is one of many California residents making the migration from the Golden State to Arizona. In 2023 alone, 54,222 people relocated from California to Arizona, representing over 20 percent of all in–migration to the state. On top of affordable housing, lower taxes and a rapidly growing economy, Arizona also offers all of the sunshine that California boasts, but without nearly as many natural disasters.
Yahoo
08-07-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Kalispell Council begins search for new city manager
Jul. 7—Kalispell City Council is expected to start the process of replacing outgoing City Manager Doug Russell on Monday. Russell was named city manager of Lakewood, Washington last month. He is expected to step into his new job on Aug. 25. A subcommittee of four members of Council will be formed to facilitate the search for a new city manager, an effort that could include hiring a recruitment firm. Council meets July 7 at 7 p.m. in City Hall, 201 First Ave. E. COUNCIL WILL vote on approving an accessory casino at a forthcoming downtown steakhouse. Truyen Tran, on behalf of 214 Main Kalispell LLC, is seeking a conditional use permit to open a casino inside the future 214 S. Main St. restaurant. Known as the Mountain Prime Steakhouse, the restaurant is expected to take up about 11,000 square feet while the casino — separated with walls — will come in at 960 square feet. The property is located within the central business zoning district which allows restaurants and bars but requires a city-issued permit to run a casino. No exterior changes to the building are expected to be made. Tran is also the owner of Blue Samurai Sushi Bar and Grill downtown and several other ventures in and around Kalispell. The Kalispell Planning Commission gave the green light to the proposal following a public hearing in June, but some board members expressed reservations about placing a casino on Main Street. The Corwin Motors dealership is also seeking Council approval to expand in North Kalispell. The Corwin Brothers Properties, LLC is asking for business zoning and annexation of 7 acres of land running up along the Stillwater River. The project would include construction of a car reconditioning shop. The proposal earned the Planning Commission's support last month. COUNCIL WILL consider revising police and fire impact fees after a new report recommended raising them to fund capital improvement projects. The body held a work session in May and a public hearing in June regarding the fees. Councilors were divided over raising them so public safety departments could meet the level of service required versus keeping costs low with the goal of attracting more development. Impact fees are one-time charges on new developments to compensate for the burden added to public infrastructure and services. The fees shift some of the cost onto new customers, saving preexisting users from bearing the brunt of development. Council is expected to decide whether to approve a new collective bargaining agreement with the International Association of Firefighters Local 547 after the most recent agreement expired in June. The association represents all 32 firefighters for the city, according to the union's website. The agreement will run through June 30, 2028 and establish a first-year base wage based on a market analysis, with a 4% adjustment for fiscal years 2027 and 2028, according to a memo from Russell. It would also allocate training funds for paramedic certifications. COUNCIL IS expected to vote on reimbursing expenditures for upgrades to the city wastewater treatment plant from State Revolving Fund bonds. The city has completed preliminary designs for the upgrades and is looking to hire a construction contractor, according to a city memo. Reporter Jack Underhill may be reached at 758-4407 or junderhill@
Yahoo
03-07-2025
- Sport
- Yahoo
An All-America City three-peat: Tallahassee 'on the move' with latest designation
The City of Tallahassee is officially a three-time All-America City. A delegation of local leaders took home the honor Sunday night after a high-energy presentation to the National Civic League conference in Denver earlier in the day. Twenty cities, ranging from Delray Beach, Fla., to Memphis, Tenn., to Austin, Texas, vied for only ten spots as an All-America City. It was a nailbiter night with Tallahassee announced as the final All-America City in the list of ten. "This community is investing in its parks," the announcer said. "This community is planning for a clean and renewable future. I'm not sure we'll be able to hear ... this magnetic city." With that, a roar went up from the audience and they chanted "Hey Tallahassee." The local delegation ascended to the stage with hugs and high fives. "We did it, We are bringing it home," Mayor John Dailey said as he hailed City Manager Reese Goad as "the best city manager anybody could work with." "You and your team are absolutely amazing." This is the third time the city has emerged victorious, having gone on to win in 1999 and 2015. The win also means Tallahassee joins an elite collection of cities that have also celebrated a three-peat, including Shreveport, La., Bloomington, Ind., Boston, Mass., Asheville, N.C., Fort Worth, Tex., and Cincinnati, Ohio. To be named an all-American city this year, cities had to show examples of "strengthening environmental sustainability through inclusive community engagement." In this year's application and presentation, the city highlighted "key community-driven initiatives" such as the Southside Action Plan, the expansion of the park system to 100 parks and the Clean Energy Plan. After marching in to the chant of "Hey Tallahassee," the delegation highlighted the three points during their presentation, which was created to emulate a tonight show format with Dailey as the host of "Capital City Tonight." 'For 200 years we have been going strong,' Dailey shouted before a hype video rolled to highlight Tallahassee landmarks and achievements. One by one, the city touted its key initiatives. "We were also the first city in Florida to power all the city municipality buildings with our solar energy," Commissioner Jack Porter said. The delegation was made up of city administrators, volunteers and advocates, including Police Chief Lawrence Revell, morning show radio host Greg Tish and southside community organizer Talethia Edwards. Four of the five city elected leaders were part of the delegation with only Commissioner Jeremy Matlow not in attendance. While trumpeting plans to transition to 100% clean energy by 2050, officials noted that over 90 percent of residents live in a ten minute walk of a park or greenspace. Dailey ended the presentation declaring Tallahassee as a place 'where history, nature and innovation truly come together with a little southern charm as well.' The School of Arts & Sciences middle school rock band Tallahassee Routes closed the presentation out to thunderous applause. Tallahassee also won the organization's social media award for best use of the platform to promote the All-America effort. The city did numerous posts and videos highlighting the city's success and plans for the Denver presentation. The latest accolades come as Tallahassee has seen a string of national recognitions that has led Dailey to proclaim that "Tallahassee is on the move." Florida's capital city was recently recognized by HGTV as one of the top 20 mid-size cities in the United States after landing on the same list in 2023. The city was also recently ranked among the top 20 "best-run cities in America," according to Wallethub. A citywide celebration of the All-America win is expected in the weeks ahead. (The winners are in bold) Akron, Ohio Albuquerque, New Mexico Austin, Texas Carrboro, North Carolina Chelsea, Massachusetts Delray Beach, Florida Denver, Colorado Fort Collins, Colorado Hampton, Virginia Jacksonville, North Carolina Kinston, North Carolina Leominster, Massachusetts Memphis, Tennessee Petaluma, California Port St. Lucie, Florida Seattle, Washington Snyder, Texas Statesboro, Georgia Tallahassee, Florida Western Riverside Region, California This article originally appeared on Tallahassee Democrat: Tallahassee wins All-America City honors for third time
Yahoo
30-06-2025
- Sport
- Yahoo
An All-America City three-peat: Tallahassee 'on the move' with latest designation
The City of Tallahassee is officially a three-time All-America City. A delegation of local leaders took home the honor Sunday night after a high-energy presentation to the National Civic League conference in Denver earlier in the day. Twenty cities, ranging from Delray Beach, Fla., to Memphis, Tenn., to Austin, Texas, vied for only ten spots as an All-America City. It was a nailbiter night with Tallahassee announced as the final All-America City in the list of ten. "This community is investing in its parks," the announcer said. "This community is planning for a clean and renewable future. I'm not sure we'll be able to hear ... this magnetic city." With that, a roar went up from the audience and they chanted "Hey Tallahassee." The local delegation ascended to the stage with hugs and high fives. "We did it, We are bringing it home," Mayor John Dailey said as he hailed City Manager Reese Goad as "the best city manager anybody could work with." "You and your team are absolutely amazing." This is the third time the city has emerged victorious, having gone on to win in 1999 and 2015. The win also means Tallahassee joins an elite collection of cities that have also celebrated a three-peat, including Shreveport, La., Bloomington, Ind., Boston, Mass., Asheville, N.C., Fort Worth, Tex., and Cincinnati, Ohio. To be named an all-American city this year, cities had to show examples of "strengthening environmental sustainability through inclusive community engagement." In this year's application and presentation, the city highlighted "key community-driven initiatives" such as the Southside Action Plan, the expansion of the park system to 100 parks and the Clean Energy Plan. After marching in to the chant of "Hey Tallahassee," the delegation highlighted the three points during their presentation, which was created to emulate a tonight show format with Dailey as the host of "Capital City Tonight." 'For 200 years we have been going strong,' Dailey shouted before a hype video rolled to highlight Tallahassee landmarks and achievements. One by one, the city touted its key initiatives. "We were also the first city in Florida to power all the city municipality buildings with our solar energy," Commissioner Jack Porter said. The delegation was made up of city administrators, volunteers and advocates, including Police Chief Lawrence Revell, morning show radio host Greg Tish and southside community organizer Talethia Edwards. Four of the five city elected leaders were part of the delegation with only Commissioner Jeremy Matlow not in attendance. While trumpeting plans to transition to 100% clean energy by 2050, officials noted that over 90 percent of residents live in a ten minute walk of a park or greenspace. Dailey ended the presentation declaring Tallahassee as a place 'where history, nature and innovation truly come together with a little southern charm as well.' The School of Arts & Sciences middle school rock band Tallahassee Routes closed the presentation out to thunderous applause. Tallahassee also won the organization's social media award for best use of the platform to promote the All-America effort. The city did numerous posts and videos highlighting the city's success and plans for the Denver presentation. The latest accolades come as Tallahassee has seen a string of national recognitions that has led Dailey to proclaim that "Tallahassee is on the move." Florida's capital city was recently recognized by HGTV as one of the top 20 mid-size cities in the United States after landing on the same list in 2023. The city was also recently ranked among the top 20 "best-run cities in America," according to Wallethub. A citywide celebration of the All-America win is expected in the weeks ahead. (The winners are in bold) Akron, Ohio Albuquerque, New Mexico Austin, Texas Carrboro, North Carolina Chelsea, Massachusetts Delray Beach, Florida Denver, Colorado Fort Collins, Colorado Hampton, Virginia Jacksonville, North Carolina Kinston, North Carolina Leominster, Massachusetts Memphis, Tennessee Petaluma, California Port St. Lucie, Florida Seattle, Washington Snyder, Texas Statesboro, Georgia Tallahassee, Florida Western Riverside Region, California This article originally appeared on Tallahassee Democrat: Tallahassee wins All-America City honors for third time
