Like its namesake, the rough and wily pioneer Ben Doney, Doney Park, Arizona, possesses a Wild West charm that speaks to the hardiness of its inhabitants.
Doney Park, Arizona, is a small community of just over 5,300 inhabitants (at the time of the 2010 U
Like its namesake, the rough and wily pioneer Ben Doney, Doney Park, Arizona, possesses a Wild West charm that speaks to the hardiness of its inhabitants.
Doney Park, Arizona, is a small community of just over 5,300 inhabitants (at the time of the 2010 U.S. Census), located 17 miles northeast of Flagstaff, in the county of Coconino. This community that borders the Coconino National Forest was named after Ben Doney, the eccentric pioneer, rancher, gold prospector, and Civil War veteran who made a name for himself with his mischievous antics and disruptive politics. Doney Park offers spectacular views of the San Francisco Peaks, the Sunset Crater Volcano, and the Painted Desert, making it an ideal spot for those who love the outdoors.
Its origins as a ranching community have made the people of Doney Park tough and proud, while instilling in them a deep respect for their environment and a strong sense of community. Community farming and solar energy projects are popular, and it should come as no surprise that Doney Park boasts an active community of doomsday preppers.
The area boasts a rugged beauty, abundant wildlife, parks, recreation, and a National Forest with miles of hiking, biking, and equestrian trails, all with breathtaking views.
Located off U.S. Route 89, Doney Park consists primarily of agricultural properties. All the basic amenities are there: grocery store, pharmacy, restaurants, and tavern. In addition, residents have quick access to the varied cuisine, shopping, and cultural activities of Flagstaff.
Given its small size, it can be difficult to find an apartment in Doney Park. Those wanting to relocate there should start their search well ahead of their planned moving date. That being said, rental apartments are available at a range of prices and are quite attractive when compared to the community's high median household income and high median house price. While house rentals make up the majority of available rental properties, two-bedroom apartments and three-bedroom apartments can occasionally be found in multifamily buildings.
Doney Park's proximity to the mountains means average temperatures are cooler than other parts of Arizona, keeping summertime cooling costs low. Heating costs can be somewhat higher, though, as wintertime lows can dip to the teens at night, and the area can see, on average, 52 inches of snow over the course of the winter.
Doney Park is a car-dependent community, scoring only an 18 out of a possible 100, according to WalkScore. However, there is regular and reliable bus service, provided by the Flagstaff Department of Transportation, from Doney Park to downtown Flagstaff. In keeping with the community's eco-consciousness, plans are in place to increase public transit as well as improve walkability and bicycle access.
The rugged beauty of Doney Park is in sharp contrast to the warmth of its people. Residents enjoy all the benefits of country living only minutes from a major urban center -- truly the best of both worlds.
