Payson was founded in 1882 and incorporated in 1973.  Payson is surrounded by the Tonto National Forest with 97 percent of the city surrounded by lands under the jurisdiction of the United States Forest Service.  Payson is bordered on one side by the Tonto Apache Indian Reservation. Payson’s full-time population is 15,476.  The city can swell to approximately 30,000 in the summer months as people escape the Valley heat.

The city sits at an elevation of 4900 feet, offering a beautiful mild four season climate.  Payson experiences early summer drought and late summer monsoons and rain.  Winter temperatures are mild with cold nights.  Payson receives occasional snowfalls in the winter months, with most melting off within a few days.  For those who love the outdoors, the Rim Country offers year-round activities including hiking, biking, hunting, fishing, camping, horseback riding and more.