Building for the Future:
Population Growth
& City Services in Gilbert
Maricopa: A Hub of Rapid Growth
Maricopa County, one of the fastest-growing counties in the United States, continues to attract new residents and businesses with its thriving economy, diverse communities, and high quality of life.
This dynamic growth is reshaping cities across the region, including Gilbert, which has seen unprecedented expansion over the past few decades.
A Look at Southeast Valley Growth
The Southeast Valley, including Gilbert, has experienced remarkable population growth over the past few decades. Gilbert alone has grown by an astounding 770.3% since 1990, increasing from just 29,805 residents to 259,386 in 2019.
The accompanying graph illustrates the steady population rise of select cities in the Southeast Valley from 2010 to today, along with projections for the coming decades.
Looking ahead, the region’s growth shows no signs of slowing down. Gilbert is projected to reach a population of approximately 330,000 when fully developed, contributing to the broader expansion of the Southeast Valley. This growth reflects the area’s appeal as a destination for families, businesses, and individuals seeking opportunity, innovation, and a high quality of life.
These trends highlight the importance of forward-thinking planning to ensure that infrastructure, public services, and amenities continue to meet the needs of this thriving region.
Gilbert’s Growth and Vision for the Future
Gilbert has experienced over a century of steady growth, evolving into one of the most vibrant and desirable communities in the nation.
As the 4th largest city in Maricopa County and the 5th largest in Arizona, Gilbert continues to thrive as a hub for residents and businesses alike.
This growth is supported by a strong sense of community, a welcoming environment for both residents and businesses, and a commitment to innovation. In 2020, Gilbert was the #1 destination for millenials to buy a home!
While honoring our rich heritage, we continue to focus on building a sustainable and prosperous future. As Gilbert grows, every resident and business plays an essential role in shaping what’s ahead.
Building a Thriving Future: Responding to Population Growth
At Gilbert, we want to continue being a great place to live, work, and visit. It’s important that our community adapts to change in a sustainable way. Through innovation, careful planning, and input from our residents, Gilbert is rising to the challenge of growth while preserving what makes our town special.
Here are some ways that we are improving our town and responding to a growing community!
Roads: Improving Transportation for a Growing Gilbert
Loop 202 is a key transportation corridor in the Southeast Valley, but by 2030, it is expected to experience a failing level of service due to increased demand.
To address this, the Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT), in collaboration with the Maricopa Association of Governments (MAG), has launched a project to improve the Loop 202 freeway:
- Expanding Loop 202 between Loop 101 and Val Vista Drive
- Widening exit ramps from one to two lanes
- Adding noise walls in some locations
- Widening overpass bridges
- Improve existing pavement conditions and the driving surface for vehicles
Public Safety: Keeping Gilbert Safe as We Grow
Did you know Gilbert ranks #31 as safest city in the U.S.?
As our population grows, the Gilbert Police Department (GPD) is committed to maintaining one of the safest communities in the U.S. through innovation and transparency.
GPD shares public safety data through Gilbert’s Performance Management program to guide decisions and allocate resources effectively.
You can view the live Performance Management page here, and check out various dashboards that track key metrics such as Crimes, Crisis Response Team activity, Use of Force, and more.
The Gilbert Fire & Rescue Department is also growing! We are hiring Paramedics and EMTs from January 13, 2025, to February 2, 2025. Apply now!
How YOU Can Help Shape Gilbert’s Future
In the Town of Gilbert, your input is essential. We strive to understand what our residents need and want. By conducting public surveys and collaborative research, we collect valuable feedback to guide the changes that matter most to you.
As Gilbert continues to grow, we want to ensure that every resident has the opportunity to shape our community’s future. Here are some ways you can share your voice and help guide the town’s development:
- Share Your Thoughts: When we roll out community surveys, take a moment to provide your feedback. Your ideas help us prioritize the changes that matter. Past topics include Cosmo Dog Park, Internet Services, Communication Engagement, and Transportation.
- Farmers Market Booths: Find us at local farmers markets, where you can share your opinions on upcoming projects or discuss anything else you’d like to see in Gilbert.
- Speak Up: See something that needs improvement? Send your suggestions through our 311 line—we’re ready to listen.
- Banners & QR Codes: Be on the lookout for banners and QR codes around town—scan them to easily access community surveys and share your thoughts.
- Attend Town Council Meetings: Join a town council meeting in person and complete a comment card when you arrive to participate.
- Community Feedback Days: Drop by our interactive events where you can share your ideas and suggestions for improving Gilbert.
- Engage Online: Join the conversation on social media with fun, shareable content like polls, surveys, and video highlights of projects shaped by your feedback.
Working together, we can shape Gilbert into a vibrant community for generations. Your voice is key to keeping our town a great place to live, work, and play.