About Lake Havasu City
Lake Havasu City is an incorporated city in Mohave County, Arizona, with a population of 57,144 as of the 2020 census, up from 52,527 in 2010. Located along Arizona State Route 95, it sits on the eastern shore of Lake Havasu, a Colorado River reservoir, 60 miles south of Kingman and 35 miles south of Bullhead City. Famous for its London Bridge, relocated from England in 1971, the city is a premier destination for boating, tourism, and retiree living, offering a blend of desert beauty and urban amenities.
History and Origins
Founded in 1963 by industrialist Robert P. McCulloch, Lake Havasu City was envisioned as a planned community around the newly formed Lake Havasu, created by Parker Dam in the 1930s. McCulloch purchased the London Bridge in 1968 and had it reconstructed brick-by-brick, opening it in 1971 as a tourism draw. The city grew rapidly, attracting retirees, boaters, and businesses, with its economy tied to tourism, manufacturing, and real estate. Its history also includes Native American ties to the Mohave and Chemehuevi peoples who lived along the Colorado River.
Geography and Environment
Located at 34°29′24″N 114°18′32″W, Lake Havasu City spans 46.3 square miles, with 46.1 square miles of land and 0.2 square miles of water, at an elevation of 735 feet. Bordered by the Mohave Mountains to the east and the Colorado River to the west, it offers stunning lake and desert vistas. The semi-arid climate features hot summers, mild winters, and good air quality (83.55% of days rated good). The area has a moderate earthquake risk, high UV exposure, and occasional flash flood risks, particularly in washes.
Demographics and Economy
Lake Havasu City has a median household income of $64,298 and a median home value of $346,500, more affordable than 55.2% of Arizona neighborhoods. Housing includes single-family homes, condos, and mobile homes, with 71.4% of residents owning their properties. The median age is 54.8, reflecting a retiree-heavy population, with 83.6% White (Non-Hispanic), 11.8% Hispanic, and 1.5% Asian. The economy employs 22,701 people, with key industries in retail trade (3,858), healthcare (3,405), and accommodation/food services (2,724). The average commute is 18.7 minutes.
Did You Know? The London Bridge, purchased for $2.46 million and shipped from England, is the centerpiece of Lake Havasu City, drawing millions of visitors annually to its English Village and canal system.
Education and Community Services
Lake Havasu City is served by the Lake Havasu Unified School District, with schools like Lake Havasu High School and Smoketree Elementary, plus charter and private options. Mohave Community College has a campus offering degree programs. Emergency services include the Lake Havasu City Fire Department and Police Department, with Havasu Regional Medical Center providing healthcare. The city features libraries, parks, and a vibrant downtown with shops, restaurants, and community events like the Boat Show and Winterfest.
Recreation and Attractions
- London Bridge and English Village: A historic landmark with shops, dining, and scenic canal walks, hosting events like the London Bridge Days festival.
- Lake Havasu: Offers world-class boating, fishing, kayaking, and events like the IJSBA World Finals, with beaches like Windsor Beach for camping.
- Havasu National Wildlife Refuge: 20 miles north, providing birdwatching, hiking, and wildlife viewing along the Colorado River.
- Sara Park and Havasu 95 Speedway: A recreational complex with motocross, rodeos, and auto racing, popular among locals and visitors.
Lifestyle and Appeal
Lake Havasu City offers a suburban lifestyle with a population density of 1,238 people per square mile, appealing to retirees, families, and outdoor enthusiasts. The city is moderately walkable near the London Bridge, with a low crime rate and 92.3% health coverage (31.2% Medicare). Annual events like the Lake Havasu Boat Show and Rockabilly Reunion foster community spirit. Its tourism-driven economy, recreational opportunities, and mild winters make it a draw, though summer heat requires adaptation.
Plan Your Visit
Reach Lake Havasu City via Arizona State Route 95 from Bullhead City (35 miles north) or Interstate 40 from Kingman (60 miles northeast). Explore the London Bridge, boat on Lake Havasu, or hike in Havasu National Wildlife Refuge. Downtown’s restaurants and festivals offer a lively atmosphere. For day trips, Topock Gorge is 25 miles north, and Kingman’s Route 66 Museum is an hour away. Las Vegas is 150 miles northwest. Lake Havasu City is a dynamic destination for water sports, history, and desert living.