Cities and Towns in Santa Cruz County, Arizona
Founded in 1899, Santa Cruz County is one of 15 counties in the state of Arizona. Historically, Santa Cruz County was formed from Cochise and Pima counties. The city of Nogales is the county seat. With FIPS code of 23, Santa Cruz County has a population of 47,883 and area of 1,238 square miles (3,206 km²).
List of all cities in Santa Cruz County, AZ alphabetically
| City/Town | Postal Code | Area Code |
| Agua Linda, AZ | 85640 | 520 |
| Amado, AZ | 85640 | 520 |
| 85645 | 520 | |
| Canelo, AZ | 85611 | 520 |
| Carmen, AZ | 85640 | 520 |
| Elgin, AZ | 85611 | 520 |
| Fairbank, AZ | 85621 | 520 |
| Greaterville, AZ | 85637 | 520 |
| Harshaw, AZ | 85624 | 520 |
| Kinsley Ranch, AZ | 85640 | 520 |
| Lochiel, AZ | 85624 | 520 |
| Nogales, AZ | 85621 | 520 |
| 85628 | 520 | |
| 85648 | 520 | |
| 85662 | 520 | |
| Patagonia, AZ | 85624 | 520 |
| Rio Rico, AZ | 85648 | 520 |
| Sonoita, AZ | 85637 | 520 |
| Tubac, AZ | 85640 | 520 |
| 85646 | 520 | |
| Tumacacori, AZ | 85640 | 520 |
| 85645 | 520 | |
| 85646 | 520 |
Major Cities and Towns in Santa Cruz County, Arizona
Nogales
- Area: 20.8 square miles
- Population: 20,837 (as of the 2020 Census)
- Zip Codes: 85621, 85628
- Latitude and Longitude: 31.3404° N, 110.9343° W
Location and History
Nogales is the largest city and the county seat of Santa Cruz County, located on the U.S.-Mexico border. The city is adjacent to its sister city, Nogales, Sonora, in Mexico. Nogales was established in 1880 when the railroad arrived, making it a key point for cross-border trade and transportation. The city’s name, meaning “walnuts” in Spanish, reflects the groves of walnut trees that once grew in the area. Nogales has a rich history tied to its role as a major port of entry and its vibrant cultural exchange with Mexico. During the Mexican Revolution, the city was a significant site of conflict, and the border has remained a focal point for trade, immigration, and cultural exchange. Today, Nogales is a bustling city known for its strong binational ties, with an economy centered on manufacturing, trade, and retail.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Nogales is served by the Nogales Unified School District, with Nogales High School being the primary educational institution. The city is home to several significant landmarks, including the Pimeria Alta Historical Society Museum, which offers exhibits on the area’s history, including its Native American, Spanish, and Mexican heritage. The Nogales Border Wall is a prominent feature that symbolizes the complex relationship between the U.S. and Mexico. Nogales is also known for its historic downtown area, where visitors can explore shops, restaurants, and markets that reflect the city’s rich cultural diversity. The nearby Patagonia Lake State Park offers opportunities for fishing, boating, and wildlife viewing, making it a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Nogales’s annual events, such as the Nogales Christmas Parade and the Fiesta de Mayo, celebrate the city’s unique cultural heritage and strong community spirit.
Patagonia
- Area: 1.3 square miles
- Population: 775 (as of the 2020 Census)
- Zip Codes: 85624
- Latitude and Longitude: 31.5396° N, 110.7565° W
Location and History
Patagonia is a small town located in the heart of Santa Cruz County, nestled in the Sonoita Creek valley between the Santa Rita and Patagonia Mountains. The town was founded in the late 19th century as a mining and ranching community. It served as a supply center for nearby mining operations, and its location along the railroad helped it grow into a bustling town during its early years. As the mining activity declined, Patagonia transitioned into a quiet, rural community known for its scenic beauty and rich biodiversity. Today, Patagonia is a popular destination for birdwatchers, artists, and those seeking a peaceful retreat in the high desert. The town is known for its strong sense of community and its commitment to preserving its natural environment.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Patagonia is served by the Patagonia Elementary and Patagonia Union High School Districts, with Patagonia Union High School being the primary educational institution. The town is home to several notable landmarks, including the Patagonia-Sonoita Creek Preserve, which is one of the premier birdwatching sites in Arizona, attracting ornithologists and nature enthusiasts from around the world. The Patagonia Museum, housed in the historic Patagonia Train Depot, offers insights into the town’s history and its role in the region’s mining and ranching heritage. The nearby Mount Wrightson and the Santa Rita Mountains provide ample opportunities for hiking, camping, and exploring the rugged landscape. Patagonia’s annual Fall Festival is a major event that showcases local arts, crafts, and food, drawing visitors from across the region. The town’s blend of history, natural beauty, and cultural richness makes Patagonia a unique and inviting community in Santa Cruz County.
Sonoita
- Area: 11.0 square miles
- Population: 818 (as of the 2020 Census)
- Zip Codes: 85637
- Latitude and Longitude: 31.6803° N, 110.6551° W
Location and History
Sonoita is a small, unincorporated community located in the rolling grasslands of Santa Cruz County, at the intersection of Arizona State Routes 82 and 83. The area has a rich history of ranching, with the first European settlers arriving in the mid-19th century to establish cattle ranches in the fertile valley. Sonoita has retained its rural character and is known for its picturesque landscapes, which have made it a popular location for Western movies. In recent decades, Sonoita has become the center of Arizona’s burgeoning wine industry, with numerous vineyards and wineries established in the surrounding area. The community’s high elevation and favorable climate make it ideal for grape growing, and Sonoita wines have gained recognition for their quality.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Sonoita is served by the Sonoita Elementary School District, with students attending nearby Patagonia Union High School for secondary education. The town is home to several significant landmarks, including the historic Sonoita Inn, which serves as a reminder of the area’s ranching heritage. The surrounding Sonoita-Elgin wine region is a major draw, with wineries offering tastings and tours that showcase the local viticulture. The nearby Las Cienegas National Conservation Area provides opportunities for hiking, birdwatching, and horseback riding in a pristine natural environment. Sonoita’s annual events, such as the Sonoita Horse Races and the Arizona Wine Festival, celebrate the community’s equestrian and viticultural traditions. The combination of rural charm, historical significance, and a thriving wine industry make Sonoita a unique and attractive community in Santa Cruz County.
Rio Rico
- Area: 62.3 square miles
- Population: 20,495 (as of the 2020 Census)
- Zip Codes: 85648
- Latitude and Longitude: 31.4706° N, 110.9768° W
Location and History
Rio Rico is a master-planned community located just north of Nogales, in the Santa Cruz River valley. The area that is now Rio Rico has a long history, with indigenous peoples living in the region for thousands of years. During the Spanish colonial period, the area was part of the large land grant known as the Pimería Alta. In the 1960s, the land was purchased and developed by the American Continental Corporation, which envisioned Rio Rico as a residential and resort community. The development faced challenges, but over time, Rio Rico grew into a thriving community, attracting residents with its affordable housing, scenic landscapes, and proximity to the U.S.-Mexico border. Today, Rio Rico is a diverse and rapidly growing community with a strong emphasis on family life and outdoor recreation.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Rio Rico is served by the Santa Cruz Valley Unified School District, with Rio Rico High School being the primary educational institution. The community is home to several notable landmarks, including the Tumacácori National Historical Park, which preserves the ruins of the Spanish mission of San José de Tumacácori, offering a glimpse into the region’s early history. The nearby Santa Cruz River provides opportunities for birdwatching and hiking, with the Anza Trail following the historic route taken by Spanish explorer Juan Bautista de Anza. Rio Rico is also known for its golf courses, including the Rio Rico Golf Club, which offers a scenic and challenging course set against the backdrop of the Tumacácori Mountains. The community’s annual events, such as the Rio Rico Fall Festival and the Anza Days celebration, highlight its rich cultural heritage and community spirit. Rio Rico’s blend of history, natural beauty, and modern amenities make it a desirable place to live and visit in Santa Cruz County.
Map of Cities in Santa Cruz County, AZ
