Arizona is located in the southwestern region of the United States, bordered by California to the west, Nevada to the northwest, Utah to the north, New Mexico to the east, and the Mexican state of Sonora to the south. Covering an area of approximately 113,990 square miles, it is the sixth-largest state by land area. Arizona is part of the "Four Corners" region, where it meets Utah, Colorado, and New Mexico at a single point, the only location in the U.S. where four states converge. The state’s central location in the American Southwest makes it a key region for trade, travel, and cultural exchange with both neighboring states and Mexico.
| Fact | Detail |
|---|---|
| Region | Southwestern United States |
| Size | Approximately 113,990 square miles, making it the sixth-largest state in the U.S. |
| Bordering States | California to the west, Nevada to the northwest, Utah to the north, New Mexico to the east |
| International Border | Shares a 389-mile border with the Mexican state of Sonora to the south |
| Four Corners | Part of the unique Four Corners region, where Arizona, Utah, Colorado, and New Mexico meet at a single point |
| Capital and Largest City | Phoenix, located in central Arizona within the Sonoran Desert |
| Latitude and Longitude | Approximately 34° N latitude, 112° W longitude |
| Neighboring Mexican State | Sonora |
| Major Highways | Interstates 10, 17, and 40, providing connections to the West Coast, Midwest, and East Coast |
| Time Zone | Mountain Standard Time (MST) year-round; Arizona does not observe Daylight Saving Time except for the Navajo Nation |
| Significant Natural Landmarks | Grand Canyon, Sonoran Desert, Painted Desert, Monument Valley |
| Economic Importance | Proximity to California supports trade; Arizona serves as a major corridor for goods moving between Mexico and the U.S. |
| Strategic Defense Location | Home to major military bases such as Luke Air Force Base and Davis-Monthan Air Force Base |
| Climate Zones | Primarily arid and semi-arid, with alpine climate zones in higher elevations |
| Population Concentration | Largest urban areas are in the central and southern parts of the state, primarily around Phoenix and Tucson |
| International Trade | Arizona is a key player in U.S.-Mexico trade, with Nogales as a major port of entry for goods |
| Proximity to Major Airports | Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport, one of the busiest in the U.S., facilitates both domestic and international travel |
| Tourism Significance | Draws millions of tourists annually due to natural landmarks and warm climate |
| Solar Energy Potential | Second in the U.S. for solar energy capacity due to its high percentage of sunny days |
Arizona’s geographic location in the southwestern United States brings strategic, economic, and cultural significance. Covering 113,990 square miles, Arizona shares borders with California, Nevada, Utah, New Mexico, and the Mexican state of Sonora, providing vital access for interstate and international trade. As part of the "Four Corners" region, where it meets Utah, Colorado, and New Mexico, Arizona serves as a cultural and economic hub for the American Southwest.
Arizona’s position bordering Mexico facilitates international trade, with billions of dollars in goods exchanged annually through key ports of entry, such as Nogales. As a result, Arizona is a critical link in the U.S.-Mexico supply chain, supporting industries like manufacturing, agriculture, and technology. Additionally, the state’s proximity to California, the largest U.S. economy, enables direct trade routes that benefit both states and drive economic growth. Arizona’s role as a transportation hub is enhanced by its three major interstate highways—I-10, I-17, and I-40—which connect it to the West Coast, Midwest, and East Coast markets.
Arizona’s arid climate and unique ecosystems contribute to its tourism industry, attracting millions of visitors each year. Natural wonders like the Grand Canyon, the Sonoran Desert, and Monument Valley make Arizona a prime destination for eco-tourism. The state’s climate also supports solar energy production, with Arizona ranking second in the U.S. for solar capacity due to its high percentage of sunny days. This contributes to a renewable energy sector that benefits the economy and aligns with sustainable development goals.
Arizona’s location is strategically significant for the U.S. defense and aerospace industries. The state hosts several military bases, including Luke Air Force Base and Davis-Monthan Air Force Base, which play essential roles in national security and pilot training. Its proximity to the border and key defense facilities contributes to defense-related employment and technological innovation in aerospace sectors, further boosting the state’s economy.
As a border state with deep historical ties to Native American and Hispanic cultures, Arizona’s location enhances its cultural diversity and significance. Arizona is home to 22 Native American tribes, including the Navajo Nation and the Tohono O’odham Nation, who contribute to the state’s cultural richness and tourism through festivals, arts, and historic sites. The border with Mexico also brings a unique blend of Mexican-American heritage, enriching Arizona’s culinary, artistic, and social landscape.
Arizona’s infrastructure benefits greatly from its central position in the Southwest. The state’s highways and railroads provide essential links between coastal ports in California and inland destinations. Arizona is also a growing air travel hub, with Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport ranking as one of the busiest airports in the U.S., facilitating both domestic and international travel. This infrastructure supports trade, tourism, and logistics, making Arizona an essential part of the regional transportation network.
