Bagdad, AZ

Tucked into the rolling desert hills about an hour west of Prescott, Bagdad is one of Arizona's last surviving company towns. Life here revolves around the Freeport-McMoRan copper mine, which has anchored the area for over a century. Because the mining company still manages much of the local housing and community infrastructure, the town has a uniquely organized, self-contained feel where work and neighborhood living go hand in hand.

ATTRRobert M. Lavinsky / CC BY-SA 3.0

Even with its remote setting at the end of State Route 96, Bagdad comes with a surprising lineup of everyday conveniences. Residents have access to a local K-12 school system, a medical center, a grocery market, and recreation spots like a community pool, golf course, library, and several parks. It offers a quiet, close-knit lifestyle where coworkers are neighbors and families share a strong sense of community tucked away from the bustle of bigger cities.