Payson is a town located in Gila County, Arizona. It was founded in 1882 by a group of settlers looking for new opportunities in the Arizona Territory. Payson was named after the state's first postmaster, Leonidas C. LaRue Payson. The town quickly grew as ranching and mining industries boomed in the surrounding area.
Payson has been home to a number of notable individuals, including artist Ted DeGrazia and former NFL player Max Hall.
According to the latest census data, Payson has a population of approximately 15,000 residents.
Payson is located in central Arizona, nestled in the mountains of the Tonto National Forest. The town sits at an elevation of 5,000 feet, providing a cooler climate compared to the surrounding desert regions.
Payson's economy is largely driven by tourism, as visitors come to enjoy the outdoor recreational opportunities in the area. The town also has a strong ranching and mining presence, with agriculture and natural resource extraction playing key roles in the local economy.
Payson has a rich cultural heritage, with a strong emphasis on Western traditions and outdoor pursuits. The town hosts a variety of events throughout the year, including art festivals, rodeos, and music concerts.