St. Johns, Arizona, a welcoming community of approximately 3,499 residents, is nestled in the eastern part of the state, offering a unique blend of historical charm and modern opportunities. Situated at a comfortable elevation of 5,650 feet, St. Johns enjoys a strategic location just 18 miles west of the New Mexico border, 29 miles north of Springerville, and 50 miles south of Interstate 40. This positioning makes St. Johns an accessible yet tranquil place to live and visit.
Originally known as El Vadito, meaning “Little River Crossing” by early Spanish explorers, St. Johns boasts a rich history. By 1873, it had grown into a vibrant Spanish-American agricultural hub. The arrival of Solomon Barth, who acquired land and cattle nearby, marked a significant period of development. In 1879, Mormon pioneers from Utah further shaped the community, settling in St. Johns and contributing to its growth. The town’s name evolved from El Vadito to San Juan, and finally to St. Johns upon its official establishment in 1880. St. Johns was formally incorporated as a city in 1946, solidifying its place as a key community in Apache County.
Economic Landscape of St. Johns
St. Johns has successfully transitioned from a traditional agricultural base to a diverse economy that embraces both heritage and innovation. While agriculture remains a part of its identity, the city has expanded into sectors driven by technology and public service. Notably, two fossil-fueled electric generation plants are significant employers in the region, providing jobs for over 400 individuals. These plants represent a substantial part of the local economy, showcasing the energy sector’s importance in St. Johns.
Adding to its technological footprint, a data communications earth station operates near St. Johns, placing the city at the forefront of communication technology. This facility highlights the area’s capacity to support and host advanced technological infrastructure. Furthermore, St. Johns serves as the administrative center of Apache County, hosting county government operations. This governmental role provides employment for more than 300 people, making public administration a crucial employment sector in the city.
Explore the Scenic Attractions Around St. Johns, Arizona
St. Johns is perfectly situated as a gateway to some of Arizona’s most breathtaking and culturally rich destinations. Often recognized as the most scenic and direct route from Phoenix to Albuquerque, traveling through St. Johns offers visitors stunning vistas and convenient access to numerous attractions within an hour’s drive.
For those interested in Native American culture and history, the Apache, Zuni, and Navajo reservations are easily accessible from St. Johns, offering opportunities to learn about and experience these rich cultures. Archeological sites dot the landscape, providing glimpses into the area’s ancient past. The world-renowned Petrified Forest National Park, located just 43 miles northwest of St. Johns, showcases the largest and most spectacular collection of petrified logs on Earth. Adjacent to this natural wonder is the Painted Desert, with its mesmerizing landscapes of colorful, eroded hills.
Outdoor enthusiasts will find plenty to enjoy, including Sunrise Ski Park, a popular destination for winter sports. In warmer months, Lyman Lake State Park offers a haven for recreational activities such as boating, water skiing, fishing, and camping. The area around St. Johns is also rich in prehistoric dwellings and petroglyph trails, inviting exploration and discovery of the region’s ancient inhabitants. Archeological excavations in the vicinity continue to reveal more about the area’s fascinating history.
Community Facilities and Lifestyle in St. Johns
Despite its size, St. Johns prides itself on offering a high quality of life, supported by a comprehensive range of community facilities. The city maintains several parks, providing green spaces for recreation and relaxation. The local library and museum serve as cultural and educational hubs, enriching community life. Residents also benefit from a recreational center, a public swimming pool, and lighted tennis courts, promoting an active lifestyle. For equestrian enthusiasts, an equestrian center caters to riding and related activities, while a Little League park supports youth sports and community engagement.
Patterson Ponds, a newly developed community fishing area, is a popular spot for anglers and families alike. For those seeking vocational training, the Northern Arizona Vocational Institute of Technology (NAVIT) offers educational programs in welding and cosmetology, contributing to local workforce development. Nearby Lyman Lake State Park and Concho Lake further expand the recreational options available to residents and visitors. Throughout the year, St. Johns hosts a variety of annual events, including the San Juan Fiesta, a vibrant Fourth of July celebration, Pioneer Days, SummerFest, the Apache County Fair, and numerous equestrian events, fostering a strong sense of community and tradition.
St. Johns, Arizona: Key Facts and Figures
For a quick overview of St. Johns, Arizona, refer to the information below:
Basic Community Information
| Fact | Detail |
|---|---|
| Founded | 1879 |
| Incorporated | 1946 |
| Elevation | 5,650 ft. |
| Location | Apache County |
Distance to Major Cities:
| City | Distance | City | Distance |
|---|---|---|---|
| Phoenix | 219 miles | San Diego | 576 miles |
| Tucson | 238 miles | Los Angeles | 613 miles |
| Las Vegas | 398 miles |
Population Trends
| 2000 | 2010 | 2023 (est.) | |
|---|---|---|---|
| St. Johns | 3,269 | 3,487 | 3,434 |
| Apache County | 69,423 | 71,685 | 66,411 |
| Arizona State | 5,130,632 | 6,401,569 | 7,285,370 |
Source: Office of Economic Opportunity, Arizona Dept. of Revenue & Arizona Tax Research Foundation
Sales Tax/Transaction Privilege Tax Rates
| Location | Rate |
|---|---|
| St. Johns | 3.00% |
| Apache County | 0.50% |
| State of Arizona | 5.60% |
Source: Arizona Dept. of Revenue & Arizona Tax Research Foundation
Labor Force Statistics
| 2000 | 2010 | 2022 | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Civilian Labor Force | 1,198 | 1,421 | 900 |
| Unemployed | 38 | 97 | 14 |
| Unemployment Rate | 3.2% | 6.8% | 1.6% |
Source: Office of Economic Opportunity
Workforce Education Levels
| Education Level | Count | Share |
|---|---|---|
| Less than high school | 315 | 17.0% |
| High school or equivalent, no college | 427 | 23.0% |
| Some college or Associate degree | 835 | 45.0% |
| Bachelor’s degree or advanced degree | 278 | 15.0% |
Source: American Community Survey
Key Industries by Employment
| Industry | Count | Share |
|---|---|---|
| Education, health care & social assistance | 358 | 36.2% |
| Public administration | 225 | 22.7% |
| Transportation, warehousing, & utilities | 186 | 18.8% |
| Retail trade | 67 | 6.8% |
| Arts, entertainment, food & recreation services | 66 | 6.7% |
| Construction | 30 | 3.0% |
| Professional, scientific, & administrative services | 30 | 3.0% |
| Other services, except public administration | 26 | 2.6% |
| Information | 2 | 0.2% |
| Agriculture, forestry, fishing, hunting, & mining | 0 | 0.0% |
| Finance, insurance & real estate | 0 | 0.0% |
| Manufacturing | 0 | 0.0% |
| Wholesale trade | 0 | 0.0% |
Source: American Community Survey
This community profile of St. Johns, Arizona, has been prepared by the Arizona Commerce Authority in collaboration with local resources. For more detailed information, please reach out to the following organizations:
City of St. Johns
Paul Ramsey
P.O. Box 455
St. Johns, AZ 85936
Phone: 928-337-4517
Email: [email protected]
Website: www.sjaz.us
Economic Development for Apache County Corporation (EDAC)
P.O. Box 767
St. Johns, AZ 85936
Phone: 928-337-2644
Website: www.realazcorridor.com/economic-development-of-apache-county/
Springerville-Eagar Regional Chamber of Commerce
P.O. Box 31
Springerville, AZ 85938
Phone: 928-333-2123
Email: [email protected]
Website: http://www.springerville-eagarchamber.com/
Arizona Commerce Authority
Statewide Economic Development Group
100 N. 7th Ave., Suite 400
Phoenix, AZ 85007
Phone: 602-845-1200
Email: [email protected]
Website: www.azcommerce.com
For exploring real estate opportunities in rural Arizona, including St. Johns, please visit the Arizona Prospector database provided by ACA and APS: here.
