Living in Flagstaff

Located at 7,000 feet in northern Arizona, Flagstaff offers four distinct seasons, cool summers, snowy winters, and abundant sunshine. Surrounded by the Coconino National Forest and the San Francisco Peaks, the city provides exceptional access to hiking, skiing, mountain biking, trail running, camping, and countless other ways to enjoy the outdoors year-round. Flagstaff’s vibrant university-town atmosphere also offers a rich mix of dining, arts, music, cultural events, and community activities throughout the year. 

Why Residents Choose Flagstaff 

Medical training is demanding, and where you live matters. Flagstaff combines the friendliness and accessibility of a smaller community with the energy and amenities of a university town. Short commutes, clean mountain air, and ready access to the outdoors make it easy to step away from work and recharge. 

Home to Northern Arizona University (NAU), Flagstaff has a lively cultural and intellectual community, with concerts, theater, collegiate sports, lectures, art exhibits, and other events throughout the year. Historic downtown and the surrounding neighborhoods offer locally owned restaurants, coffee shops, breweries, bookstores, galleries, live music, farmers markets, festivals, and community gatherings. 

There is plenty to enjoy in every season. Winter brings skiing and snowboarding as well as cozy restaurants, performances, museums, and other indoor activities. Warmer months open up hundreds of miles of forest trails and seemingly endless opportunities to hike, bike, run, camp, or simply spend time outside. 

Flagstaff is also an ideal base for exploring the spectacular landscapes of the Southwest. The Grand Canyon, Sedona, and numerous national monuments, forests, and recreation areas are within easy reach, making everything from an afternoon outing to a weekend adventure possible. 

Flagstaff at a Glance 

• 7,000 feet in elevation with four distinct seasons 

• Cool summers, snowy winters, and abundant sunshine 

• Surrounded by the Coconino National Forest and San Francisco Peaks 

• Outstanding hiking, biking, skiing, and year-round outdoor recreation 

• Home to Northern Arizona University 

• Year-round arts, music, sports, lectures, festivals, and cultural events 

• Locally owned restaurants, coffee shops, breweries, bookstores, and shops 

• Easy access to the Grand Canyon, Sedona, and other iconic destinations 

• Small-city character, a strong sense of community, and short commutes