If you are thinking about moving to the East Valley, two cities that come up in almost every search are Gilbert and Chandler. Both are consistently ranked among the best places to live in Arizona, and both offer strong real estate markets, great amenities, and convenient access to Phoenix, Tempe, and Scottsdale.
As a local Realtor helping buyers and sellers every day, I often work with clients comparing homes in Gilbert vs Chandler. The right choice usually comes down to lifestyle, commute, home style, and long term goals.
If you are searching for the best Realtor in Gilbert or Chandler or trying to decide where to buy, here is a local comparison to help you narrow your options.
Why buyers compare Gilbert and Chandler
This is one of the most common questions I hear from people relocating to the Phoenix area. Both cities offer suburban comfort with easy access to major employment centers, shopping, dining, and outdoor recreation.
Buyers often choose between the two based on:
• Commute location
• Budget and home size
• Community feel
• School preferences
• Access to amenities and entertainment
Both Gilbert and Chandler continue to see strong demand from buyers moving to the East Valley.
Home prices and overall value
When comparing Chandler vs Gilbert real estate, pricing is an important factor.
Right now, median home prices in Gilbert are slightly higher than in Chandler.
What buyers typically see:
Gilbert homes:
• Higher median price overall
• Many newer homes and master planned communities
• Larger floorplans and modern designs
• Strong demand for newer construction
Chandler homes:
• Slightly lower median home prices
• More established neighborhoods with mature landscaping
• A mix of resale homes and some newer communities
• Strong value due to location near employment centers
Cost of living and property taxes are similar, but many buyers find they can enter the market at a slightly lower price point in Chandler.
Schools and family appeal
Strong schools are one of the main reasons buyers search for homes in Gilbert and Chandler.
Both cities offer:
• Highly rated public school districts
• A wide range of academic and extracurricular programs
• Strong graduation rates
• Family oriented communities
Gilbert is well known for its community involvement, youth sports, and neighborhood activities. Chandler also offers excellent schools along with strong academic programs and technology focused opportunities.
For families searching for the best places to live in the East Valley, both cities consistently rank near the top.
Commute and job access
Location is a major factor for many buyers.
Chandler offers:
• Close proximity to major employers like Intel and other tech companies
• Easy access to Loop 101, Loop 202, and US 60
• Shorter commutes for many technology and corporate professionals
Gilbert offers:
• Convenient freeway access, especially in the northern and western areas
• Slightly longer commutes depending on location
• Easy access to Queen Creek, Chandler, Mesa, and Tempe job centers
Buyers who work in Chandler’s tech corridor often choose Chandler for convenience, while others prefer Gilbert’s newer communities and are comfortable with a slightly longer drive.
Lifestyle and community feel
While the cities border each other, the overall feel is a little different.
Living in Gilbert offers:
• A strong suburban feel with newer communities
• The popular Heritage District aka Downtown Gilbert with restaurants, coffee shops, and events
• Extensive parks and trails
• A quieter residential atmosphere in many neighborhoods
Living in Chandler offers:
• A blend of suburban comfort and urban convenience
• Downtown Chandler with dining, nightlife, and entertainment
• Chandler Fashion Center and major retail hubs
• A more established city layout with mature landscaping
The choice often comes down to whether you prefer a newer suburban environment or a more established city feel with close access to job centers and entertainment.
Amenities and things to do
Both cities offer plenty of recreation and community events.
In Gilbert:
• Heritage District dining and local events
• Riparian Preserve at Water Ranch
• Community parks, trails, and recreation programs
In Chandler:
• Chandler Center for the Arts
• Tumbleweed Park and seasonal events
• Shopping, dining, and entertainment throughout the city
• Close proximity to regional attractions and employment hubs
Both communities host festivals, farmers markets, concerts, and family events throughout the year.
Long term value and growth
Gilbert and Chandler both have strong real estate fundamentals and continue to attract buyers from across the country.
Chandler’s proximity to major employers helps support steady demand. Gilbert’s growth, newer housing, and highly desirable communities continue to drive appreciation.
From a long term investment perspective, both cities offer:
• Consistent buyer demand
• Strong resale potential
• High quality of life
• Continued East Valley growth
Final thoughts
Gilbert and Chandler are both excellent places to live. The best choice depends on your priorities.
Gilbert may be the right fit if you want:
• Newer homes and master planned communities
• Larger floorplans and modern layouts
• A quieter suburban feel
• A strong community atmosphere
Chandler may be the right fit if you want:
• A slightly lower entry price point
• Close access to major employers and tech hubs
• An established city feel with mature neighborhoods
• Convenient shopping, dining, and entertainment
Both cities offer top schools, strong home values, and excellent quality of life.
If you are trying to decide between Gilbert and Chandler, working with a local expert can make the process much easier. As a Realtor specializing in Gilbert, Chandler, and the East Valley, I help buyers compare neighborhoods, home prices, commute options, and lifestyle so they can feel confident about their decision.
If you are searching for the best Realtor in Gilbert or Chandler or want to explore homes in either area, I would be happy to help you find the right home and community for your next move.