Sedona is a city and community that straddles the county line between Coconino and Yavapai Counties in the Verde Valley of northern Arizona. As of the 2000 census, the city had a total population of 10,192. Founded in 1902, it has become a gathering place for New Age adepts, who believe some of the rocks and pre-Columbian archaeological remains (such as rock dwellings) of the region have a mystical power.

One of Sedona's main attractions is its stunning array of red sandstone formations, the Red Rocks of Sedona. The Red Rocks form a breathtaking backdrop for everything from New Age spiritual pursuits to the city's renowned Jazz on the Rocks festival.

Politically, Uptown Sedona (the part in Coconino County) and West Sedona (the Yavapai County portion) form the City of Sedona. Originally founded in 1902, the town was incorporated into a city in January 1988. The Village of Oak Creek, despite its location seven miles to the south and outside Sedona city limits, is a significant part of the community.

Geography

Panoramic view of the immediate Sedona area, covering an angle of view of approximately 90 degrees. The line of bare (deciduous) trees at center left marks the course of Oak Creek.

Sedona is located at 34°51'36" North, 111°47'21" West (34.859897, -111.789199)¹.

According to the United States Census Bureau, the city has a total area of 48.2 km² (18.6 mi²). 48.2 km² (18.6 mi²) of it is land and none of it is covered by water.

Demographics

As of the census² of 2000, there are 10,192 people, 4,928 households, and 2,863 families residing in the city. The population density is 211.6/km² (548.0/mi²). There are 5,684 housing units at an average density of 118.0/km² (305.6/mi²). The racial makeup of the city is 92.17% White, 0.49% Black or African American, 0.45% Native American, 0.94% Asian, 0.09% Pacific Islander, 4.29% from other races, and 1.57% from two or more races. 8.90% of the population are Hispanic or Latino of any race.

There are 4,928 households out of which 15.8% have children under the age of 18 living with them, 48.6% are married couples living together, 6.6% have a female householder with no husband present, and 41.9% are non-families. 32.2% of all households are made up of individuals and 14.2% have someone living alone who is 65 years of age or older. The average household size is 2.06 and the average family size is 2.52.

Butte near Sedona, Arizona

In the city the population is spread out with 13.7% under the age of 18, 4.5% from 18 to 24, 21.2% from 25 to 44, 35.0% from 45 to 64, and 25.6% who are 65 years of age or older. The median age is 50 years. For every 100 females there are 88.1 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there are 85.9 males.

The median income for a household in the city is $44,042, and the median income for a family is $52,659. Males have a median income of $32,067 versus $24,453 for females. The per capita income for the city is $31,350. 9.7% of the population and 4.7% of families are below the poverty line. Out of the total population, 12.1% of those under the age of 18 and 5.0% of those 65 and older are living below the poverty line.

External links

• City web site (http://www.city.sedona.net/)
• Arizona Paths - Sedona Guide (http://www.azpaths.com/learn/tourism/sedona/)
• Verde Valley School boarding school site (http://www.verdevalleyschool.org/)
• Maps and aerial photos
  • Street map from Mapquest (http://www.mapquest.com/maps/map.adp?latlongtype=decimal&latitude=34.859897&longitude=-111.789199&zoom=6)
  • Topographic map from Topozone (http://www.topozone.com/map.asp?lat=34.859897&lon=-111.789199&s=200&size=m&layer=DRG100)
  • Aerial photograph from Terraserver (http://terraservice.net/map.aspx?t=1&s=14&lon=-111.789199&lat=34.859897&w=750&h=500)