Just Outside Yuma Is Arizona's Up-And-Coming Suburb With Mountain Views And Relaxed Vibes

Yuma is known as the "Sunniest Place on Earth," and its surrounding suburbs and towns also benefit from its record-breaking sunshine. 31 miles east of Yuma, Wellton soaks up the rays while enjoying stunning views of the Gila Mountain range. Despite its close-knit community feel, it welcomes a growing number of seasonal visitors sometimes known as "snowbirds." As such, the former agricultural town has expanded its facilities in recent years to accommodate the high winter population, and boasts low costs, an incentive program for local businesses, and a slow-paced lifestyle.

Wellton places residents within reach of energetic cities like Phoenix (around a 2-hour 30-minute drive), San Diego (roughly a 3-hour drive), and of course, Yuma. The closest usable airport for commercial flights is Yuma International Airport 29 miles away, or if you're driving, you can take the I-8 east from Yuma for 30 miles.

Located in the western portion of the famous El Camino Del Diablo, otherwise known as "The Devil's Highway," the town was historically a much-needed water stop after its founding in 1878, bringing relief to railroad travelers. This led to its name Well Town, which later became Wellton. Today, it is a thriving locale enveloped by mountains, and the ideal spot to plant roots if you love Arizona's year-round warm weather.

Wellton sits close to the Mexico border, with a similar landscape to much of southern Arizona: dry scrubland, distinctive saguaros, and the occasional palm tree. Its peaceful nature is noted by locals, but like every place, it has its downsides. One Niche reviewer highlighted that the chummy town might be a little too calm, saying, "Wellton is a small community and what is amazing is that everyone knows each other. What needs [to change] is that there isn't really much to do ..."

Other than a tiny Pioneer museum, library, and a few sports complexes and golf courses, you may need to get creative with your entertainment. Thankfully, it's less than a one-hour drive from the affordable shopping mecca of San Luis if you ever need some retail therapy. Wellton is 28.9 square miles, so you are likely to find more accommodation options closer to Yuma, but weekend visitors can grab a budget room at Microtel Inn & Suites by Wyndham Wellton from around $68 per night.

For something a little more quirky, you might choose to stay the night in a campervan on a brewery that doubles as a date farm from $40 per night. Dates thrive in the area's climate; Dennis V Johnson, author of Imported and American Varieties of Dates in the United States, told The Guardian, "They do well because that's what they like: hot or dry weather ..." Visit Naked Dates and stroll in their date orchard, or sign up for an event like yoga on the farm. For those interested in a move to Wellton, homeownership was 85.8% in 2023 — higher than the 65% national average (via Data USA). The typical home value is $257,133 (as of 2025) so if you seek an affordable home with a mountainous backdrop, Wellton is an attractive choice.

Wellton is perfectly placed for exploring the highlights of southern Arizona, being around 63 miles from one of the best abandoned ghost towns in Arizona, and 87 miles from the kitschy shops of Gila Bend, to name a few unique spots. However, keen hikers will learn there are plenty of challenging trails nearby to scratch that outdoor itch. 21 miles away is Jesters Trail Trailhead, offering a strenuous trek for skilled hikers. One Google reviewer said, "Amazing hike. Definitely not for beginners ... It's relatively moderate until the last 20-30 mins of the hike at which point the incline gets very steep ... 10/10 views, would highly recommend!"

Novice hikers might instead choose the Painted Desert Trail Loop roughly an hour from Wellton, which is an easy 1.3-mile loop on AllTrails. Or there's the highest rated moderate hike, Muggins Peak Trail. This 5.6-mile loop may take some huffing and puffing to summit, but you could glimpse a bighorn sheep along the way, and will be rewarded with incredible mountain vistas. Remember, temperatures fluctuate between 48 to 106 degrees Fahrenheit, so it's best to avoid hiking during the sweltering months from May to September when average daily temperatures exceed 99 degrees Fahrenheit.

You won't find much nightlife, but after your hike, there are several locally-loved establishments to relax in while your legs recover. Head to The Hive Restaurant for classic American dishes like burgers and wings, or to the High Tanks Brewing Company for well-deserved pizza and beer. While others may be tempted to drive past sleepy Wellton in favor of more lively Yuma, bypassing the friendly residents and rural quiet of this charming desert town would be a mistake.