Moving to or from Gilbert?
Once 'Hay Shipping Capital of the World,' now one of the largest and most affluent master-planned suburbs in America — Phoenix-area families flock to Gilbert for its top-rated schools, safe streets, and family-oriented downtown Heritage District.
- 275,000 City population
- 5,000,000 Metro area
- 1920 Founded
- Southeast Valley / Phoenix Metro Region
Why people move to Gilbert.
- Consistently ranked among America's top 'best places to live' and safest cities
- Gilbert Public Schools — one of the top-rated districts in Arizona
- The revitalized Heritage District downtown with restaurants and Joe's Farm Grill nearby
- Riparian Preserve at Water Ranch — a 110-acre desert wildlife preserve with birding trails
- The Hale Centre Theatre and Gilbert Historical Museum
- Being home to corporate employers like Northrop Grumman, GoDaddy, Isagenix, and Deloitte offices
Gilbert went from 5,700 residents in 1980 to 275,000 today — one of the largest population multipliers of any US city. It's one of the few US cities officially called a 'town' by state incorporation documents despite having a population larger than most medium cities. The 'Hay Shipping Capital of the World' title is still technically accurate for its peak in the 1920s.
Where people live in Gilbert.
A quick guide to Gilbert's most moved-to neighborhoods.
-
Heritage District
Walkable downtown core with restaurants, shops, and events at the Water Tower
-
Power Ranch
Master-planned community with amenities, trails, and top-rated elementary feeders
-
Seville
Golf community with executive homes and Seville Golf Club
-
Val Vista Lakes
Established planned community with lakes, marina, and family amenities
-
Trilogy at Power Ranch
55+ active adult community with resort-style amenities
-
Cooley Station / Agritopia
Agriculture-themed master-planned community with community farms and restaurants
Where people spend their time in Gilbert.
- Riparian Preserve at Water Ranch Central Gilbert
- Gilbert Heritage District Downtown
- Hale Centre Theatre Central Gilbert
- Big League Dreams Sports Park Northwest Gilbert
- Freestone District Park Central Gilbert
- Gilbert Historical Museum Heritage District
Planning a Gilbert move.
- Summer heat is extreme — June through September routinely tops 105°F; moves in these months require pre-dawn starts (5-6am) and strict hydration protocols
- School-calendar timing drives most family moves — late May through early August with premium pricing and limited availability
- Many subdivisions have strict HOAs regulating moving-truck parking and driveway use; confirm restrictions before move day
- No state income tax? False — Arizona has a flat 2.5% rate. But property taxes and vehicle taxes remain modest by national standards
Moving in Gilbert: FAQ.
Why is Gilbert so popular with relocating families?
Three factors: top-rated schools (Gilbert Public Schools and Higley USD both consistently strong), low crime rates (among the lowest in any US city over 200,000), and master-planned community amenities. The trade-off is summer heat, long distances across the Valley, and a dependence on cars for nearly everything.
Is Gilbert bigger than Scottsdale?
Yes by population — Gilbert (275K) is larger than Scottsdale (245K). But Scottsdale has more luxury retail, nightlife, and celebrity-adjacent culture. Gilbert is more family-oriented, more affordable on average, and has newer housing stock. Many households choose Gilbert for schools and Scottsdale for lifestyle.
How extreme is Gilbert's summer?
Extreme. Expect 90+ days of 100°F+ weather annually and routine stretches of 110-115°F in July-August. Moving during these months is possible but requires pre-dawn starts (5-6am), extra hydration for crews, and protection for heat-sensitive items (electronics, candles, wine). Reputable Gilbert movers price summer heat protocols into their estimates.
Do I need a car in Gilbert?
Yes. Gilbert has limited transit (Valley Metro bus service along major corridors) but is otherwise fully car-dependent. Most destinations require 5-20 minute drives. The Valley Metro light rail doesn't extend to Gilbert. Budget for multiple vehicles if your household has working adults.
Let's find the right mover for your Gilbert move.
Free advice from people who know the Gilbert market. No obligation, no spam, no sales pressure.
Replies within 1 hour during business hours, 9am to 5pm ET, Mon-Fri.