FLAGSTAFF COMMUNITY PROFILE
Flagstaff, with its nearly 71,000 residents, has charm of a small mountain town and the resources of a large community. The natural beauty of Northern Arizona blends well with the sophistication of this university town. Keenly proud and aware of its historic and gritty past, Flagstaff still strives for an improved and innovative future.
With focus on bio-science, medical devices and renewable energy, Flagstaff is the hub of technological advancement in Northern Arizona. In 2009, Kiplinger rated Flagstaff in the top 10 “Best Cities for Jobs” list; the list features locations that have stable employment and the talent to create new, well-paying jobs.
Unlike its neighbors in the Valley of the Sun, Flagstaff is situated at 7,000 feet above sea level and has four distinct seasons. Snowy winters make it a desirable destination for downhill and cross-country skiers and snowboarders.
Flagstaff’s location is one of its top ranking assets, as it rests only 80 miles from Grand Canyon National Park. Phoenix is only two hours south, while Las Vegas and Albuquerque are both less than a five hour drive away.
Flagstaff is home to Northern Arizona University, one of Arizona’s three public universities, as well as Coconino Community College, a highly-rated community college.
For more statistics on Flagstaff and the surrounding community please visit our additional pages about Visiting or Relocating to Flagstaff. You can also visit the Flagstaff Convention & Visitors Bureau or visit FlagstaffProspector.com for more information.
Cost of Living Index (COLI)
The Greater Flagstaff Chamber of Commerce gathers pricing information for a cost-of-living report every year. This survey is compiled by the Council for Community and Economic Research (C2ER) in order to create the national cost of living index.
According to the cumulative report averaging three quarters in 2016, the Flagstaff composite cost of living index was 113.6, or 13.6% higher than the national average. The composite index reflects pricing in six categories: housing, groceries, utilities, transportation, health care and miscellaneous goods and services.
Composite Index (Overall Cost of Living)
Demographics
The Flagstaff community consists of a diverse population with a wide range of ages, educational backgrounds and professional experiences. Click below to find more statistics.
Flagstaff Total Population
68,667
Flagstaff Population by Occupation
(Ages 16 and older, does not include government employment statistics)
Flagstaff Population by Education
(Ages 25 and older)
Labor Statistics
The following employment data was provided by the Bureau of Labor Statistics. (updated December 2016)
These estimates are calculated with data collected from employers in all industry sectors in Flagstaff, AZ, a metropolitan statistical area in Arizona.
Flagstaff Unemployment Rate
6.0%
Government Labor Force
18.9%
Civilian Labor Force
73.3%