Gilbert is the largest incorporated town in the country, and it earned that size by consistently attracting families and professionals with top-rated schools, low crime, and a genuinely walkable downtown in the Heritage District. If you are considering a move here, here is what actually matters before you start touring homes.
People relocate to Gilbert for a combination of reasons: strong schools, a low crime rate, established employers, and a downtown district that has become one of the most talked about dining scenes in the Phoenix metro. What fits your move best depends on your budget, your commute, and the kind of neighborhood you want to live in, so it helps to look at the specifics rather than the town as a whole.
Cost of Housing in Gilbert
Housing costs in Gilbert generally run above many neighboring East Valley cities, reflecting sustained demand tied to the town’s schools and reputation. Established neighborhoods like Val Vista Lakes offer a more settled, mature feel, while newer communities on the town’s southern edge trend toward higher price points for updated finishes and amenities. Rather than relying on a single townwide average, it is worth comparing a few specific neighborhoods against your budget and priorities.
Gilbert Neighborhoods to Know
Established lake community with mature landscaping, walking paths, and a strong sense of neighborhood identity
Popular with families wanting lake access and a shorter commute to central Gilbert
Large master planned community with community centers, pools, and an active events calendar
A fit for families prioritizing amenities and a strong sense of community
Farm-inspired master planned communities with front porches, community gardens, and a walkable layout
Known for a distinct, close-knit character within Gilbert
Walkable core with a widely recognized dining and entertainment scene, plus a regular farmers market
Suited to buyers prioritizing walkability and nightlife over a larger lot
Major Employers and Commute
Gilbert has attracted a growing base of technology, healthcare, and advanced manufacturing employers over the past decade, which supports strong demand across the housing market. Notable employers with a presence in Gilbert include:
- GoDaddy. Headquartered in Gilbert-adjacent Tempe with a significant corporate presence in the town.
- Isagenix International. World headquarters located in Gilbert.
- Banner MD Anderson Cancer Center. A major regional healthcare and life sciences employer.
- Deloitte. Operates one of its US delivery centers in Gilbert’s Central employment corridor.
- Northrop Grumman. Advanced manufacturing and defense-related operations based in the town.
Before choosing a neighborhood, drive your actual planned commute at the time of day you would normally travel it. Gilbert covers a large area, and a neighborhood on the town’s southern edge can add twenty or more minutes compared to one closer to the Loop 202 corridor.
Climate and What to Expect Each Season
Gilbert has a desert climate with hot summers, often exceeding 105 degrees from June through August, and mild winters that rarely dip below freezing. Most newcomers find November through March the most comfortable stretch of the year for outdoor activity, while summer routines shift toward early mornings and indoor spaces during the hottest months.
Schools in Gilbert
Most of the town is served by Gilbert Public Schools, with parts of Gilbert also served by Higley Unified School District. Both districts are generally well regarded across the East Valley, and specific school assignment depends on the neighborhood, so confirming boundaries for any home under consideration is worth doing early in the search.
Gilbert earned its reputation the slow way, through consistent investment in schools, safety, and community amenities over several decades rather than a single defining industry. That steady, family-oriented character is exactly what continues to draw new residents, even as home prices have climbed alongside demand.
Things to Do Around Gilbert
- Heritage District dining. A dense cluster of restaurants and bars in Downtown Gilbert, regularly ranked among the top food neighborhoods in the Phoenix metro.
- Riparian Preserve at Water Ranch. A wetlands preserve known for bird watching, fishing, and walking trails right in the middle of town.
- Gilbert Farmers Market. A regular weekend market in Downtown Gilbert featuring local produce and vendors.
- SanTan Village. An open-air shopping and entertainment center with retail, dining, and a movie theater.
Moving to Gilbert involves more decisions than most people expect once they start comparing neighborhoods, commute times, and home styles side by side. I work with relocating buyers regularly and am glad to put together a shortlist of neighborhoods based on your specific budget, commute, and lifestyle before you start touring.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Gilbert, AZ a good place to relocate to?
Gilbert consistently ranks among the safest and most desirable towns in Arizona, with top-rated schools, established employers like GoDaddy and Banner MD Anderson Cancer Center, and a wide range of neighborhoods, which makes it a strong option for families and professionals relocating to the East Valley.
What is the cost of housing in Gilbert compared to the rest of the Phoenix area?
Gilbert generally runs above many neighboring East Valley cities on housing cost, reflecting sustained demand tied to its schools and reputation. Pricing varies significantly by neighborhood and home age, so it is worth comparing specific areas like Power Ranch or Morrison Ranch rather than relying on a single citywide average.
What are the best neighborhoods in Gilbert for new residents?
It depends on lifestyle and budget. Val Vista Lakes and Power Ranch appeal to families wanting lake access and community amenities, Morrison Ranch and Agritopia offer a farm-inspired, walkable feel, and Downtown Gilbert’s Heritage District suits buyers who want walkability and access to dining and events.
What are the major employers in Gilbert, AZ?
Gilbert is home to notable employers including GoDaddy, Isagenix International, Banner MD Anderson Cancer Center, Deloitte, and Northrop Grumman. The town has also drawn continued investment in technology, life sciences, and advanced manufacturing in recent years.
What is the climate like in Gilbert, AZ?
Gilbert has a desert climate with hot summers, often exceeding 105 degrees from June through August, and mild winters that rarely dip below freezing. Many newcomers find the winter months, from November through March, to be the most comfortable time of year for outdoor activity.
What school districts serve Gilbert, AZ?
Most of Gilbert is served by Gilbert Public Schools, with parts of the town also served by Higley Unified School District. Both districts are generally well regarded, and specific school assignment depends on the neighborhood, so it is worth confirming boundaries for any home under consideration.
👉 You can also check out this helpful video for a closer look at what Gilbert, AZ has to offer:
Planning a move to Gilbert and want a neighborhood shortlist built around your budget, commute, and lifestyle? I would love to help you get started.
