Is Globe Safe, Pros and cons of living in Globe
Globe, Arizona, nestled at the foot of the Pinal Mountains, offers a unique blend of historic charm and natural beauty. This former mining town, founded in the late 19th century, retains much of its old West character, evident in its preserved downtown architecture and surrounding landscapes. Globe serves as the county seat of Gila County, providing essential services and a central hub for the region.
The city’s economy has historically been driven by mining and ranching, with copper production playing a significant role. Today, while these industries remain important, Globe also benefits from tourism and its role as a gateway to outdoor recreational opportunities. Its location along the Historic Old West Highway makes it an accessible destination for those seeking a glimpse into Arizona’s past and a connection with its rugged natural environment.
Is it Safe to Live in Globe?
Assessing the safety of any city involves examining its crime rates. In Globe, the overall crime rate is reported to be significantly higher than the national average. This includes both violent and property crimes, with specific figures indicating a substantial increase compared to national statistics (as reported by AreaVibes and NeighborhoodScout).
Your chance of becoming a victim of crime in Globe is notably higher than in many other U.S. cities. NeighborhoodScout data indicates a chance of 1 in 124 for violent crime and 1 in 19 for property crime. These statistics suggest that safety is a considerable concern for residents and prospective inhabitants of Globe (as reported by NeighborhoodScout).
Violent Crime Statistics
Violent crime in Globe presents a challenging picture, with rates considerably exceeding national averages. Reports indicate that the violent crime rate per 100,000 individuals is substantially higher than the U.S. average (as reported by AreaVibes). This means that the likelihood of experiencing violent incidents is elevated within the city compared to many other communities.
Specifically, your chance of being a victim of violent crime in Globe is statistically higher than both the state and national averages. This trend is a significant factor for individuals considering relocation, highlighting the need for awareness and appropriate precautions (as reported by NeighborhoodScout and AreaVibes).
Property Crime Trends
Property crime in Globe also presents a concern, with rates also reported to be above the national average. This category includes offenses such as burglary, larceny, motor vehicle theft, and arson. The frequency of these crimes contributes to the overall higher crime rate experienced in the city.
The data suggests that Globe has one of the higher property crime rates when compared to communities across the United States. This elevated rate means residents face a greater risk of experiencing property-related offenses (as reported by NeighborhoodScout and CityRating.com).
Cost of Living in Globe
Globe offers a cost of living that is generally considered more affordable than the national average, though it can be slightly higher than the average for Arizona. This balance makes it an attractive option for those seeking to reduce their living expenses while still residing in the state.
Housing costs in Globe are notably lower than the national average, contributing significantly to its affordability. While some other expense categories may be closer to or slightly above the national average, the overall cost of living remains competitive.
Housing Expenses
Housing is a significant factor in the cost of living, and Globe presents favorable conditions in this regard. The median home price in Globe hovers around $150,000, making homeownership a realistic goal for many (as reported by Livability.com and Trulia). Rent prices are also refreshingly low compared to most American cities.
A one-bedroom apartment typically ranges between $600 and $750 per month, while a two-bedroom home can be found for around $800 to $950 per month (as reported by Livability.com). This affordability extends to renters, with the average rent in Globe being approximately $959 per month (as reported by Apartments.com).
Everyday Expenses
Beyond housing, everyday expenses in Globe are also relatively manageable. Food budgets can stretch further here than in many other Arizona cities, with a single person able to cover food costs for around $250 to $300 per month by shopping at local stores (as reported by Livability.com). Transportation costs are also noted to be less affordable than average in the United States.
Utilities and healthcare costs are reported to be more affordable than the U.S. average, which helps to offset other expenses. This combination of affordable housing and manageable daily costs contributes to Globe’s appeal as a budget-friendly place to live (as reported by ERI Economic Research Institute).
Job Market and Employment
The job market in Globe is characterized by a mix of local industries and a growing employment sector. As of recent data, the city has seen employment growth, indicating a developing economic landscape.
The most common job sectors for residents include Accommodation & Food Services, Health Care & Social Assistance, and Retail Trade. These sectors provide a substantial portion of the employment opportunities within the city.
Major Employers and Industries
Key industries that contribute to Globe’s economy include mining, ranching, and manufacturing, particularly related to copper production. Major employers in the area include Cobre Valley Regional Medical Center, which is a prominent healthcare provider, and various retail and service establishments like Walmart and McDonald’s (as reported by Indeed.com and Zippia). Freeport-McMoRan Inc. is also a significant presence in the region, reflecting the importance of the mining sector (as reported by Lensa).
The healthcare sector is a significant employer, with Cobre Valley Regional Medical Center being a leading institution. Other substantial employers include educational institutions and government entities, contributing to the diversity of the job market (as reported by Zippia and Lensa).
Salaries and Wages
The average salary in Globe, AZ, is reported to be around $41,000 per year, with an average hourly pay of approximately $19.00 (as reported by Zippia). However, other sources indicate a higher average annual salary, with ZipRecruiter reporting an average of $75,269 per year as of April 2026, and ReadySetHire stating an average of $76,255 per year as of April 2026. The median wage is also noted to be higher, with some sources indicating $87.5K/yr (as reported by ZipRecruiter and ReadySetHire).
Salary ranges can vary significantly based on the job title and industry. For example, while retail positions might offer around $30,500 annually, roles in management or computer and math fields can command significantly higher salaries, with some reaching over $100,000 per year (as reported by ReadySetHire). The minimum wage in Globe, AZ, is $12.15 per hour, which is higher than the federal minimum wage (as reported by Zippia).
Unemployment Rate
The unemployment rate in Arizona, as of March 2026, was 4.7%, representing a slight increase from the previous month (as reported by USAFacts). While specific unemployment data for Globe is not consistently available, it is generally understood that local rates can fluctuate based on regional economic conditions.
The overall economic health of the surrounding Gila County and the state of Arizona influences the employment landscape for Globe residents. The Arizona Office of Economic Opportunity provides monthly unemployment trends for various local areas, offering a broader perspective on labor market conditions (as reported by Arizona Office of Economic Opportunity).
Climate and Weather
Globe, Arizona, experiences a warm desert climate, characterized by mild winters and hot summers. The city enjoys abundant sunshine throughout the year, with over 3600 hours of sun annually, making it an attractive destination for those who prefer dry, sunny weather.
The climate is generally pleasant outside of the peak summer heat. Winters are mild and dry, with temperatures rarely dropping below freezing, and minimal precipitation, which is conducive to outdoor activities year-round.
Temperature Ranges
During the summer months, Globe can experience high temperatures, with average highs in June reaching up to 97°F and July highs around 94°F (as reported by NOAA and Time and Date). The hottest period generally spans from late May to mid-September, with daily high temperatures often exceeding 88°F.
Conversely, winters are cool, with average daily high temperatures remaining below 64°F from late November to late February. The coldest month is typically December, with average highs around 58°F and lows near 34°F (as reported by NOAA and Time and Date).
Precipitation and Rainfall
Globe receives a low amount of annual precipitation, with about 16 inches of rain per year (as reported by NOAA and Livability.com). The majority of this rainfall occurs during the summer monsoon season, particularly in July and August.
The rainy period typically lasts from late June to early April, with August being the wettest month, averaging around 1.6 inches of rain. Conversely, the drier period extends from early April to late June, with June receiving the least amount of rainfall, averaging about 0.2 inches (as reported by NOAA).
Education and Schools
Globe offers a range of educational institutions serving students from pre-kindergarten through high school. The Globe Unified School District oversees several schools within the city, providing public education options for local families.
While the district as a whole faces some challenges, there are individual schools that stand out for their performance. Understanding the ratings and performance of these schools is crucial for families with children.
School District Performance
The Globe Unified School District has an overall Niche grade of C, with a rating of 3.75 out of 5 stars (as reported by Niche). According to state test scores, a small percentage of students are proficient in math and reading within the district. This indicates areas for improvement in academic outcomes across the district.
However, Destiny School, a public charter elementary/middle school, is noted as a high-performing outlier. It consistently outperforms both the state and district averages in standardized test scores, particularly in English Language Arts (as reported by SchoolDigger.com).
Individual School Ratings
Globe High School, serving grades 9-12, has a Niche rating of 3.39 out of 5 stars and a C+ overall grade (as reported by Niche and NeighborhoodScout). Test score data indicates that a portion of students are proficient in math and reading, though these figures suggest room for academic growth (as reported by Niche).
Other schools, such as Copper Rim Elementary and High Desert Middle School, have faced challenges with low test scores and rankings. This highlights disparities in educational quality within the Globe school system, with Destiny School being a notable exception (as reported by SchoolDigger.com).
Demographics and Population
Globe, Arizona, is a small city with a population of approximately 7,195 residents as of recent data (as reported by Data USA and Point2Homes). The city’s population has seen a slight decline in recent years, with projections indicating a continued decrease at a modest annual rate.
The demographic makeup of Globe is diverse, with a significant portion of the population identifying as White or Hispanic. The median age in Globe is around 44 years, indicating a mix of age groups within the community.
Racial and Ethnic Composition
The largest racial and ethnic groups in Globe are White and Hispanic. White residents constitute about 46.5% of the population, followed by Hispanic residents at approximately 41.6% (as reported by Globe Demographics and World Population Review). Other significant racial groups include Native American and Asian populations.
Within the White population, a notable portion is identified as White (Non-Hispanic). The Hispanic or Latino population represents a substantial segment of the city’s residents, contributing to its cultural diversity (as reported by Data USA and World Population Review).
Age and Gender Distribution
The median age in Globe is approximately 44.1 years (as reported by World Population Review). The population distribution shows a significant percentage of residents in the older age brackets, with around 20.3% being 65 or older. Adults aged 45 to 64 form the largest age cohort, making up about 28.6% of the population.
Gender-wise, Globe has a slightly higher proportion of males to females. The most recent data indicates that males constitute about 52.6% of the population, while females make up 47.4% (as reported by Point2Homes). This gender distribution is consistent across various age groups.
Household and Income Data
Globe has approximately 2,963 households, with an average of two members per household (as reported by Point2Homes). A significant portion of these households, around 64%, are families, while the remainder consists of individuals or non-relatives.
The median household income in Globe is reported to be around $69,170 (as reported by Globe Demographics and World Population Review). However, renter median household income was reported as $34,154 in 2022 (as reported by Point2Homes). Approximately 16.6% of Globe families live below the poverty line (as reported by Globe Demographics).
Pros and Cons of Living in Globe
Globe offers a distinctive living experience with a strong sense of community and a connection to its historical roots. Its affordability, particularly in housing, is a significant draw for many seeking a more budget-friendly lifestyle.
However, potential residents should be aware of the higher crime rates and the challenges within the local school system. These factors, combined with the city’s remote location, present a mixed picture for those considering a move.
Advantages of Globe
One of the primary advantages of living in Globe is its affordability, especially concerning housing costs. The median home price is considerably lower than the national average, making homeownership accessible for a wider range of individuals and families (as reported by Livability.com and Trulia). Renting is also more affordable, with average rents significantly below the national average (as reported by Apartments.com).
The city’s natural beauty and access to outdoor activities are also considerable assets. Nestled near the Pinal Mountains, Globe offers opportunities for hiking, exploring desert landscapes, and enjoying a slower pace of life. The strong sense of community and historic charm further enhance its appeal for those seeking a close-knit environment (as reported by Livability.com).
Challenges in Globe
A significant challenge for Globe is its elevated crime rate, which is higher than both state and national averages. This includes both violent and property crimes, requiring residents to be mindful of their safety (as reported by NeighborhoodScout and AreaVibes). The educational system also presents challenges, with some schools underperforming according to various reports (as reported by SchoolDigger.com and Niche).
The city’s remote location can also be a drawback for some, potentially impacting access to certain amenities or job opportunities found in larger metropolitan areas. While the cost of living is generally lower, some specific expenses like transportation can be less affordable than the national average (as reported by ERI Economic Research Institute).