Zip Code 85281
AZ · Population: 68,623
About Zip Code 85281
Zip code 85281 is located in Arizona and is home to approximately 68,623 residents. It receives an overall grade of C (score: 48/100), based on safety, affordability, quality of life, and employment metrics.
This area experiences higher crime rates than the national average. Residents should be aware of safety considerations.
Housing costs are a challenge in this area, with home values at $333,600 and median rent of $1,421/month against a median income of $55,572. Many residents face a significant housing cost burden.
About 47.5% of adults have a college degree, roughly in line with national averages.
The unemployment rate of 6.1% is above the national average, indicating a weaker local job market.
Scores are percentile-based: a score of 85 means this zip code ranks better than 85% of all US zip codes on that dimension. Data is sourced from the US Census Bureau (ACS 5-year estimates) and the FBI Uniform Crime Report.
Demographics & Economics
Score Breakdown
| Dimension | Score | Grade | Interpretation |
|---|---|---|---|
| Safety | 36 | D | Lower crime = higher score |
| Affordability | 38 | D | Lower cost relative to income = higher |
| Quality of Life | 65 | B | Education, commute, ownership |
| Jobs & Economy | 54 | C+ | Lower unemployment = higher |
| Overall | 48 | C | Weighted average |
Methodology
All scores are percentile-based (0–100): a score of 85 means this zip code ranks better than 85% of all US zip codes on that metric. Safety uses FBI Uniform Crime Report state-level data (Phase 2 will add zip-level granularity). Economic and demographic data is from the US Census Bureau American Community Survey (ACS) 5-year estimates (2022).