The Town of Payson, nestled among the majestic mountains of the Mogollon Rim, a 7,000 foot, 200 mile long escarpment, is located at the intersection of State Routes 87 and 260, 90 miles north of the Phoenix metro area and 90 miles south of the City of Flagstaff. Payson, surrounded by the Tonto National Forest and the world's largest stand of virgin Ponderosa Pines, is graced with spectacular natural beauty.At an elevation of 5,000 feet, the area enjoys a mild climate that accommodates year-round outdoor exploration. Residents and tourists alike enjoy snow covered, fragrant pine trees while cross country skiing in the winter and extremely pleasant temperatures in the spring, summer and fall while they hunt, fish or hike.As of the 2021 U.S. Census, the population of the Town of Payson was 16,516. Payson residents enjoy full-service public safety departments, a water utility, parks and recreation, library, and community development among other governmental services.