About Ajo, Arizona

Welcome to Ajo, Arizona
Nestled deep in the Sonoran Desert, just 43 miles north of the Mexican border, Ajo is a small town with big character. With year-round blue skies, low humidity, and pristine desert air, it’s a haven for those seeking serenity, sunshine, and a slower pace of life.

Home to around 4,000 residents, Ajo has evolved from its copper mining roots into a vibrant, multigenerational community. After mining operations ceased in the 1980s, retirees found peace here—and more recently, Border Patrol agents and young families have added fresh energy to the town’s dynamic mix.

Though often called a “sleepy mining town,” Ajo is anything but ordinary. Even its name carries intrigue: some say it comes from the Tohono O’odham word for “paint,” others from the Spanish word for “garlic.” Either way, Ajo (pronounced AH-ho) is unforgettable.

The climate makes it an ideal cold-season retreat. January averages a pleasant 64°F, while July reaches 103°F. With just under 9 inches of annual rainfall, the desert landscape thrives, offering abundant flora and fauna. Humidity rarely exceeds 56%, averaging a comfortable 37%.

Ajo’s sunsets are legendary—mountains silhouetted against fiery skies, visible all year long. And for a town its size, there’s plenty to do: softball leagues, theatre productions, church and civic groups, golf clubs, and countless volunteer opportunities for those who love to stay active and engaged.