This $277K Arizona Bunker Promises Safety from Zombies & Nuclear War—Would You Dare Live Here?

As fears of various disasters loom large in the American psyche, a fascinating trend is emerging in real estate: the growing interest in bomb shelters and unconventional living spaces. A recent survey by Barter Insurance revealed that more than one in ten Americans believe a zombie apocalypse is on the horizon. While this may seem far-fetched, it underscores a growing cultural fixation on existential threats. More pressing, however, is the reality of climate change; about 35% of adults worry about it on a weekly basis, according to the American Psychiatric Association. Meanwhile, a YouGov poll found that nearly half (46%) of Americans are concerned about the possibility of entering a nuclear conflict within the next decade.

This pervasive anxiety is not just abstract but has practical implications, as evidenced by a recent listing from Realtor.com for a unique property in Arizona. Nestled on a hill overlooking the historic mining town of Bisbee and just minutes from the U.S.-Mexico border, this property is described as a “crown jewel.” However, it’s not just any home—it's a former gold mining bunker. While it may lack basic amenities such as a kitchen or bathroom, it can connect to town water, electricity, and sewer service, making it ripe for development.

The listing envisions various possibilities for the bunker: it could become a wine cellar, a mini home, or even a retreat for outdoor enthusiasts. Interestingly, it could also serve as a modern-day bomb shelter, appealing to those concerned about potential disasters. The property comes with ten contiguous lots, six of which are leveled homesites, offering the potential for a gated community or other developments.

Cave living, as unconventional as it may sound, is rooted in historical practices. Humans have sought refuge in caves since prehistoric times, and even today, around 4,500 people live in cave homes in Guadix, Spain. According to cave dweller Maria Carmen Lopez, living in a cave offers natural climate control: “It’s a good place to sleep: cool in the summer and warm in the winter.”

Beyond comfort, caves also offer environmental advantages. Jorge Herrero, a cave builder, highlights that cave homes consume significantly less energy, negating the need for heating or air conditioning. Architect Juan Calandria Hernandez adds that caves are likely to become more appealing due to their minimal environmental impact, stating, “There is no concrete here, no steel beams. No energy-intensive materials are used at all.”

As climate change continues to reshape our living conditions, the real estate landscape could see a dramatic shift. A study by climate risk financial modeling firm First Street predicts a $1.4 trillion potential reduction in real estate value over the next 30 years due to climate-related risks. Already, insured property losses caused by weather disasters exceed $100 billion annually, according to the Insurance Information Institute. This has resulted in rising insurance premiums and the creation of insurance deserts, where homeowners struggle to find affordable coverage.

Living in a cave may not be the traditional choice for most Americans, but it could provide a viable solution against many of the risks posed by climate change. The Bisbee gold mining bunker is currently listed for $247,000, well below the December 2025 median list price for U.S. homes, which stands at $399,950. While it requires some work, this lower price tag may offer a creative solution to the ongoing housing affordability crisis in America.

For those who find cave living a bit too rustic, more luxurious cave homes do occasionally hit the market. For instance, approximately five years ago, a stunning 5,802-square-foot cave home with three bedrooms and four bathrooms was listed near Bisbee for $998,500 but has yet to sell. This highlights a growing interest in unique living spaces amid rising concerns about climate change and housing affordability.

In light of these challenges, Americans concerned about home affordability and climate change should consider regions with lower risks, such as the Rust Belt or the Great Lakes. These areas offer some of the lowest median home prices in the country while also being sheltered from many climate-related disasters. As Americans increasingly seek innovative solutions for housing, the trend toward cave living and similar alternatives may provide a fascinating glimpse into the future of real estate.

Ultimately, while there may be no assurances against a zombie apocalypse, the exploration of alternative living arrangements could serve as a proactive measure against the real threats we face today.