One of the most buildable counties in Western Arizona. USDA Rural eligible, no zoning restrictions, and affordable land.
📊80/100AcreScore
💰$3KLand $/acre
🏠$135KHome Value
👥16,557Population
📈+-0.8%Growth (10yr)
🌊5%Flood RiskLow
🌡️Hot DryClimateZone 2B
🏗️ Can You Build Here?
Arizona has no state building code — regulations are county-level. La Paz County has no formal zoning ordinance, meaning most rural land can be used for residential construction including barndominiums without special permits beyond standard building codes.
Zone
Min Lot
Barndo OK?
Unzoned
None
✅ Yes
La Paz County has no formal zoning ordinance. Standard building permits still required. Contact the county building department for specifics.
📋 What Permits Do You Need?
Most states allow owner-builders to act as their own general contractor for personal residences. Check Arizona requirements — licensed subs are typically needed for electrical, plumbing, and HVAC.
Required Permits
• Building permit (residential)
• Septic permit (if no public sewer)
• Electrical permit
• Plumbing permit
Permit Office
La Paz County Building Department
Parker, AZ
Contact county clerk for current hours and requirements
🌊 What's the Flood & Soil Risk?
Very low flood risk. Only 5% of La Paz County land falls within FEMA-designated flood zones — well below the national average.
5%
In Flood Zone
Good
Soil Drainage
Good
Septic Viability
Source: FEMA National Flood Hazard Layer, USDA Web Soil Survey
💰 What Does It Cost?
Extremely affordable. Median land prices around $2,500 per acre make La Paz County one of the most budget-friendly options in Arizona.
$3K
Median $/acre
$135K
Median Home Value
$120–200
Build Cost $/sqft
0.6%
Property Tax Rate
Source: U.S. Census Bureau ACS 2024, La Paz County Assessor
🏔️ Why People Love Living Here
La Paz County sits in the heart of Western Arizona. Phoenix is 2.5 hr away. Arizona has a state income tax — factor that into your cost-of-living calculations.
🏗️
Affordable Land
Median land at $2,500/acre means you can buy more, build bigger, and still stay under budget.
🔨
Build Freedom
No formal zoning means you can build your barndominium, shop, or homestead without jumping through bureaucratic hoops.
At a Glance
Population16,557
10-Year Growth-0.8%
County SeatParker
State Income TaxYes
ClimateHot Dry (Zone 2B)
How Close Is Everything?
Phoenix2.5 hr
PHX2.5 hr
Austinvaries
💧 Utilities & Infrastructure
Most rural La Paz County land uses well water and septic systems. Municipal utilities are available near Parker. Check with local utility providers for your specific parcel.
Electric ProviderLocal Co-op / TXU
WaterWell or Municipal
SewerSeptic (most rural)
InternetVaries by location
Cell CoverageVariable
Natural GasPropane common in rural areas
🏦 Financing & Incentives
La Paz County qualifies for USDA Rural Development loans — zero-down-payment financing for eligible buyers in most areas.
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❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Can I build a barndominium in La Paz County?
Yes. La Paz County has no formal zoning ordinance. You'll still need standard building permits, but barndominiums are generally permitted on rural land. Check with the county building department for specific requirements.
How much does land cost in La Paz County?
Median price is approximately $2,500 per acre, though prices vary by location, road access, and improvements. USDA Rural Development loans may be available for eligible buyers.
Is La Paz County eligible for USDA Rural Development loans?
Yes — most of La Paz County qualifies for USDA Rural Development programs, including zero-down-payment home loans for eligible buyers.
What is the property tax rate in La Paz County?
The effective property tax rate is approximately 0.6%. Check with the county assessor for the most current rates and any available homestead exemptions.
Do I need a licensed contractor to build in La Paz County?
Most states allow owner-builders to act as their own general contractor for personal residences, though requirements vary by state and county. In Arizona, check local building codes for specific licensing requirements. You'll typically need licensed professionals for electrical, plumbing, and HVAC work.