Metro Phoenix / Communities / Litchfield Park
Litchfield Park Overview
Litchfield Park, located 16 miles west of Downtown Phoenix, is a thoughtfully planned residential community known for its welcoming small-town charm and relaxed, laid-back lifestyle. This town of palm tree-lined streets offers residents a blend of close-knit community living with the convenience of nearby suburban and urban amenities.
The Wigwam Resort sits in the heart of the community. The resort was originally built for Goodyear Tire and Rubber Company executives visiting the farming operations. In 1929, the Wigwam opened its doors to the public, quickly establishing itself as a premier resort destination. It soon gained a reputation as an exclusive retreat, with its golf club becoming a favored sanctuary for avid golfers seeking relaxation and recreation.
History
Litchfield Park is named for its founder, Paul Weeks Litchfield (1875-1959). He was an executive of the Goodyear Tire and Rubber Company who came to the area in 1916 in search of suitable land to farm a long- staple cotton that previously had been available only from the Sea Islands off the coast of Georgia and from Egypt. Litchfield Park once served as the central hub for Goodyear Farms, which managed thousands of acres and employed hundreds of workers. In the 1920s, Paul Litchfield and his wife, Florence, built their winter estate, Rancho La Loma, perched on a hill overlooking the future town. In 1926, the company town was officially named Litchfield Park.
The Wigwam Resort opened in 1929 and quickly evolved into a sought-after, exclusive resort. Today, it continues to offer a luxurious experience with upscale dining options, three premier golf courses, swimming pools, and a full-service spa. Guests enjoy comfortable, well-appointed accommodations, while the downtown area complements the resort next door with a variety of locally owned shops and restaurants, providing a unique blend of leisure and local culture.
Between 1931 and 1944, the area was also used as a testing ground for Goodyear tires. In the 1960s, the city embarked on a master plan for development, envisioning several self-sustaining villages. This forward-thinking strategy played a significant role in shaping the city’s growth and progress.
In 1987, Litchfield Park was incorporated as a city, 3.3 square miles in size.
City Government
The City of Litchfield Park operates under the Council-Manager form of government. In this system, the City Council selects a City Manager to serve as the chief executive officer, overseeing the city’s operations. The City Manager is tasked with managing the daily functions of all city departments, implementing policies, and administering city programs. Assisting in these duties, one assistant city manager reports directly to the City Manager. Additionally, department directors are appointed by the City Manager and are accountable to them, ensuring efficient management across all city functions.
Business
Tourism and Hospitality: Litchfield Park is home to the renowned Wigwam Resort, an historic luxury destination that draws visitors for golf, events, dining, corporate meetings, and more. This creates demand for hospitality and tourism-related businesses, including event planning, catering, and recreational services. The city also hosts popular annual events, such as the Art & Wine Festival and Christmas in the Park.
Local Business Community: The city’s village-style downtown offers a variety of local boutiques, restaurants, and small businesses, providing residents and visitors with unique shopping and dining experiences. Litchfield Park’s support and emphasis on local businesses strengthens its economy by attracting independent retailers, cafes, and service-based companies that benefit from the city’s affluent and community-oriented population.
Proximity to Major Employment Centers: Litchfield Park is a relatively small city, but its close proximity to Glendale, Goodyear, and Phoenix provides residents with access to numerous employment opportunities in industries like aerospace, healthcare, and manufacturing.
Transportation
Although Litchfield Park itself is a smaller, residential-focused city, its location near key highways and arterials provides easy access for commuting and local business activities. Primary transportation routes include…
Interstate 10 (I-10): Primary east-west interstate located south of Litchfield Park, providing a direct route to the City of Phoenix to the east, with Goodyear and Buckeye to the west.
Camelback Road: Major east-west arterial road running through Litchfield Park.
Indian School Road: Significant east-west arterial road that runs along the southern edge of Litchfield Park, providing access to residential neighborhoods and local businesses.
2023 Population (estimate)
Litchfield Park: 7,024
Arizona: 7,427,991
Median Household Income (2022)
Litchfield Park: $122,079
Arizona: $74,568
Estimated Home Value (2024)
Litchfield Park: $536,145
Arizona: $431,494
Median Age (2022)
Litchfield Park: 48.1
Arizona: 38.8
Land area: 3.33 square miles
Population density:
2,244 people per square mile