When I first started thinking about where I wanted to settle down, raise a family, and build a future, I kept coming back to the same question: Is Gilbert, AZ a good place to live? After countless hours of research, visits, and conversations with locals, I took the leap, and I haven’t looked back since.
Living in Gilbert has been more than just convenient, it’s been genuinely fulfilling. From the warm, friendly neighborhoods to the clean parks and top-rated schools, everything about this town makes you feel at home. It’s a place where people wave as they walk their dogs, where farmer’s markets are bustling on the weekends, and where your neighbors actually know your name.
So, is Gilbert, AZ a good place to live? Let’s dive in, and I’ll show you why I believe the answer is yes.
Population Growth and Demographics
Gilbert has experienced significant population growth over the past few decades. As of 2025, the town’s population is approximately 279,569, making it the fifth-largest municipality in Arizona. This growth reflects Gilbert’s increasing appeal as a residential destination.
The median age in Gilbert is 35.7 years, indicating a youthful and vibrant community. Notably, 28.92% of the population is under 18, while 10.6% are 65 and older. This age distribution suggests a family-friendly environment with a balanced mix of young professionals and retirees.
Economic Landscape and Employment Opportunities
Thriving Job Market
Gilbert boasts a robust economy with a median household income of $121,351, significantly higher than both the state and national averages. The town has evolved into a hub for various industries, including technology, healthcare, and education. Major employers such as GoDaddy, Banner Health, and the Gilbert Public Schools district contribute to a dynamic job market. Additionally, Gilbert’s proximity to Phoenix expands employment opportunities for residents willing to commute.
Income Distribution by Age
Income levels in Gilbert vary across different age groups. Households led by individuals aged 45 to 64 report the highest median income at $143,325, followed by the 25 to 44 age group with $124,382. This trend reflects the town’s appeal to established professionals and growing families.
Cost of Living and Housing Market
Living in Gilbert comes with a higher price tag. The average cost of living is approximately $2,417 per month, placing it in the top 10% of the most expensive cities globally. Housing costs significantly contribute to this elevated expense.
As of February 2025, the median listing home price in Gilbert is $640,000, with a median price per square foot of $291. Despite these figures, the housing market has shown stability, with prices remaining flat year-over-year. This stability, combined with the town’s amenities, continues to attract homebuyers.
Education System and School Ratings
Education is a priority in Gilbert, with several schools receiving accolades for excellence. In 2025, six Gilbert Public Schools were honored with the A+ School of Excellence Award by the Arizona Educational Foundation. Additionally, the district ranks 7th out of 139 in Arizona, reflecting its commitment to quality education.
Beyond public schools, Gilbert offers a variety of charter and private educational institutions, catering to diverse learning preferences. This range of options ensures that families can find suitable educational environments for their children.
Safety and Crime Rates
Safety is a hallmark of Gilbert. The town’s overall crime rate is 51.2% lower than the national average, with violent crimes reported at 117 per 100,000 residents. This translates to a 1 in 845 chance of being a victim of violent crime, underscoring Gilbert’s reputation as a safe community.
The Gilbert Police Department’s proactive approach to community policing has been instrumental in maintaining these low crime rates. Their engagement with residents fosters a sense of security and trust within the community.
Transportation and Accessibility
Gilbert is very much a car-centric community. While that may not be ideal for someone hoping to rely solely on public transportation, most residents don’t seem to mind. The roadways are in great condition, traffic is generally manageable, and major freeways like Loop 202, US-60, and Loop 101 make it easy to reach Phoenix, Chandler, Mesa, and even Scottsdale within 30:45 minutes.
Public transit options are limited compared to larger urban centers. The Valley Metro bus system does have a few routes through Gilbert, but it’s not comprehensive enough for most commuters. For seniors and individuals with disabilities, Gilbert offers RideChoice, a subsidized transportation program providing convenient access to essential services.
Healthcare Facilities and Services
One of the major perks of living in Gilbert is the access to top-tier healthcare. The town is home to Banner Gateway Medical Center and Dignity Health Mercy Gilbert Medical Center, both highly rated institutions that provide everything from emergency care to advanced surgical services.
Specialized medical centers, urgent care clinics, and wellness providers are also plentiful, which is great news for families, retirees, or anyone managing chronic conditions. For parents, pediatric care options are abundant, and senior residents will find a variety of assisted living and specialized healthcare facilities.
Gilbert residents also benefit from access to mental health counseling, holistic wellness centers, and dental/vision specialists. Preventative health is a strong community focus, with regular events, health fairs, and accessible wellness programs offered throughout the year.
Dining, Shopping, and Entertainment
Gilbert is a foodie’s delight. Whether you’re into casual bites, fine dining, or global cuisines, there’s something for every craving. The Heritage District is a hot spot for locally-owned eateries and trendy restaurants. Popular names include Liberty Market, Postino East, Joe’s Real BBQ, and Culinary Dropout.
Food trucks are also a big deal here, and weekend pop-up events often draw big crowds. If you’re looking for variety, Gilbert won’t disappoint.
For shopping, Gilbert has both large-scale options like SanTan Village, an outdoor mall with major brands and boutique shops, and smaller strip centers scattered across the town. You’ll find everything from Target and HomeGoods to local artisan shops and farmers markets.
Neighborhoods and Real Estate Variety
Where to Live in Gilbert?
Gilbert offers a range of neighborhoods suited to different lifestyles. Some of the most popular include:
- Power Ranch : Ideal for families, with community pools, lakes, walking trails, and excellent schools.
- Agritopia : A unique urban-farm-style community that blends old-fashioned charm with modern conveniences.
- Seville : A more upscale neighborhood featuring a private golf course, club, and large homes.
- Val Vista Lakes : A waterfront community with a clubhouse, tennis courts, and vibrant HOA events.
Each neighborhood brings something different to the table, whether it’s resort-style amenities, strong school zones, or a tight-knit community vibe.
Real Estate Options
Gilbert real estate is diverse. You’ll find everything from townhomes and condos to single-family homes and luxury estates. New construction homes are still popping up as the town continues to grow, offering opportunities for buyers who want modern features and energy-efficient designs.
Pros and Cons of Living in Gilbert
Pros
- Extremely safe: Among the lowest crime rates in the country.
- Thriving economy: High household incomes and ample job opportunities.
- Beautiful neighborhoods: Master-planned communities and green spaces.
- Family-friendly: Parks, events, schools, and healthcare make it ideal for raising kids.
Cons
- High cost of living: Especially housing prices.
- Limited public transportation: A car is almost essential.
- Summer heat: Extreme temperatures from June to September.
Is Gilbert, AZ a Good Place to Live?
So, let’s bring it all together, is Gilbert, AZ a good place to live? If you’re seeking a clean, safe, family-friendly town with top-notch schools, strong job prospects, beautiful neighborhoods, and sunshine nearly every day, then yes, Gilbert is absolutely one of Arizona’s best places to settle down.
If this guide has helped you decide that Gilbert is the right fit, consider hiring trusted movers in Gilbert, AZ, to make your relocation smooth and stress-free. With a customer-first approach, we offer tailored moving solutions, including packing, loading, transportation, and unpacking services. Whether you’re moving locally or long-distance, we ensure your belongings are handled with care by trained movers who prioritize safety and timeliness.
Whether you’re moving from across town or across the country, working with professionals who know the area can make all the difference.