Facts on Bullhead City, Arizona

Bullhead City has experienced rapid growth over the past quarter-century. In 1980, the permanent population was 10,719, which has increased to 39,930 as of 2009, according to the Arizona Department of Economic Security. One reason for this may be the quest for a healthier lifestyle. A male Bullhead City resident lives an average of 3.4 years longer than those in the rest of the country, while the average woman lives 5.2 years longer, according to www.bullheadcity.com.

Bullhead City is known for its extreme heat, with the average daily high temperature reaching 86 degrees Fahrenheit. The hottest temperature ever recorded in the United States occurred there on Aug. 11, 1983, with a reading of 132 degrees in the shade taken at the Bullhead City Fire Department.

The leading industry in Bullhead City is tourism. Each year, 6 million visitors are attracted to the warm, sunny climate and recreational opportunities. Despite its small size, the area features two nine-hole and three 18-hole golf courses, as well as 21 recreational vehicle and nine mobile home parks. These are generally filled to capacity for half of the year, from November to May. A full-service airport makes the area easily accessible.

As of 2009, Bullhead City offers a variety of choices in accommodations for travelers. The area features 19 hotels, from budget to deluxe, and including many of the national chains. There are also 18 restaurants available, with cuisine choices ranging from Mexican to Chinese, and also including an Irish pub.

The world's largest rattlesnake was captured in Bullhead City, measuring nearly more than 8 feet and weighing nearly 33 pounds. The area is also known for mining, as more than $1.6 million of gold and silver has been unearthed since the mid-1800s. The area's scenery has also attracted filmmakers, as several scenes from the 2007 movie "Into the Wild" were shot there.