Why People Who Move to Gilbert Never Leave — The Real Story Behind the Stats

Gilbert, Arizona consistently ranks among the best cities in the U.S. to raise a family, with one analysis giving it the 5th-lowest crime rate among cities studied and one of the country's lowest poverty rates. Add top-rated schools, master-planned communities, a growing dining scene, and a Heritage District that keeps expanding — and the reasons people stay start to add up quickly.

We've had this conversation more times than we can count. A client moves to Gilbert from another part of

the Valley — or from out of state — fully expecting it to be a temporary stop. A few years later, they're calling

us to help them upsize within the same zip code. They didn't leave. They never do.

It's not just a feeling. A 2022 study named Gilbert and Scottsdale as two of the best cities in the United

States to raise a family, citing high incomes, low poverty rates, and strong family metrics. Gilbert ranked

especially well for low crime — landing in the top five for lowest crime rate among cities in that analysis —

along with one of the lowest poverty rates in the country. A 2025 ranking of the best Arizona cities for

families listed Gilbert among the top recommendations, specifically calling out strong schools and family-oriented community planning.

What keeps people here long-term is that Gilbert, Arizona doesn't ask you to outgrow it. The Heritage District functions as the community's dining and events core, and Heritage Park is on track to nearly double the district's footprint with new apartments, retail, and a hotel. Master-planned communities like Morrison Ranch, Agritopia, Cooley Station, and Power Ranch function almost as distinct micro-worlds within the city — each with its own character, walkability, and community culture.

Wes and Lisa Bender have watched this play out with clients for years. The people who leave Gilbert often do so for job relocations or major life changes — not because they found somewhere they liked better.

When the schools are strong, the parks are well-funded, the crime is low, and the restaurants keep getting better, the case for staying is just hard to argue with.

Why do people love living in Gilbert AZ?

Gilbert consistently earns top rankings for low crime, strong schools, family-oriented planning, and quality of

life. The combination of master-planned neighborhoods, parks, a growing Heritage District, and low poverty

rates creates an environment where families tend to put down roots and stay long-term.

What are the best neighborhoods in Gilbert for families?

Morrison Ranch, Power Ranch, Val Vista Lakes, Agritopia, and Cooley Station are among the most

frequently cited family-friendly neighborhoods in Gilbert. Each has a distinct character, but all share strong

community design and active neighborhood cultures.How does Gilbert compare to other Phoenix suburbs for raising a family?

Gilbert regularly outperforms most Phoenix-area suburbs on family-focused metrics including crime rate,

school quality, income levels, and poverty rate. A 2022 national study placed both Gilbert and Scottsdale

among the top U.S. cities for raising a family — with Gilbert often scoring especially high on safety and

family demographics.

Have questions about buying or selling in Gilbert or the Southeast Valley? We'd love to help.

■ Schedule a free call: https://go.sphereglobalgroup.com/f49bF

■ Text or call Wes: 480-330-4251

■ Email: wes@sphereglobalgroup.com

Follow along on Instagram, YouTube, Facebook, and TikTok @gilbertwiththebenders for more local updates.

Helpful Links

• Gilbert AZ community and lifestyle overview — https://www.gilbertedi.com/life/living-in-gilbert/