Why are people flocking to Arizona? It's got affordable housing, thriving economies, stunning natural beauty, and a relaxed lifestyle. This influx of new residents has fueled rapid growth in cities like Coolidge, Eloy, Queen Creek, and Maricopa, making it a prime time to be an Arizona real estate agent.
Want to know where people are moving to in the Grand Canyon State? We analyzed recent U.S. Census data to find the fastest-growing cities in Arizona.
1. Coolidge, Arizona
Located conveniently between Phoenix and Tucson, Coolidge offers a mix of historic charm and modern potential, making it a unique place to call home. Coolidge is home to the Casa Grande Ruins National Monument and retains its small-town feel while embracing growth. Its economy is rooted in agriculture and bolstered by new industries.
Population estimate as of July 1, 2022: 16,715
Population estimate as of July 1, 2023: 18,293
Population increase from 2022 to 2023: 9.44%
2. Eloy, Arizona
Eloy is famous for being a skydiving mecca. The city’s economy is focused on agriculture, but it’s also becoming a hub for logistics and transportation. Eloy has a small-town charm with a growing sense of community and development. Its location near Interstate 10 makes it a gateway between Phoenix and Tucson.
Population estimate as of July 1, 2022: 17,058
Population estimate as of July 1, 2023: 18,528
Population increase from 2022 to 2023: 8.62%
3. Queen Creek, Arizona
Known for its agrarian charm, Queen Creek offers a blend of modern development and rural living. The Queen Creek Olive Mill is Arizona’s only working olive mill and a great place for olive oil enthusiasts. The town boasts a strong equestrian culture with numerous ranches and horseback riding trails.
Population estimate as of July 1, 2022: 70,731
Population estimate as of July 1, 2023: 76,570
Population increase from 2022 to 2023: 8.26%
4. Maricopa, Arizona
One of the fastest-growing cities in Arizona, Maricopa combines small-town feel with growing urban amenities. Maricopa features scenic desert views and is ideal for outdoor enthusiasts. Its proximity to Phoenix (about 30 minutes away) makes it a commuter-friendly location.
Population estimate as of July 1, 2022: 66,307
Population estimate as of July 1, 2023: 71,022
Population increase from 2022 to 2023: 7.11%
5. Casa Grande, Arizona
Casa Grande is named after the nearby Casa Grande Ruins National Monument, a historic Native American structure. The city has a strong agricultural history but is now a growing hub for industry and manufacturing. It’s halfway between Phoenix and Tucson, offering a convenient location for commuters.
Population estimate as of July 1, 2022: 60,048
Population estimate as of July 1, 2023: 63,743
Population increase from 2022 to 2023: 6.15%
6. San Luis, Arizona
Located on the U.S.-Mexico border, San Luis is a bilingual and bicultural city. The city’s economy is heavily influenced by agriculture and international trade. San Luis is known for its proximity to the Colorado River, making water recreation easily accessible.
Population estimate as of July 1, 2022: 35,775
Population estimate as of July 1, 2023: 37,996
Population increase from 2022 to 2023: 6.12%
7. Marana, Arizona
Marana is known for its luxury resorts. The area has a rich history, with archaeological sites dating back thousands of years. Marana is part of the Tucson metro area and offers a blend of suburban living and proximity to urban amenities. It’s a hot spot for cycling, with access to the Tucson Loop Trail.
Population estimate as of July 1, 2022: 55,965
Population estimate as of July 1, 2023: 58,430
Population increase from 2022 to 2023: 4.40%
8. Goodyear, Arizona
Named after the Goodyear Tire and Rubber Company, Goodyear is a city in Maricopa County with a master-planned community vibe. Home to the Goodyear Ballpark, the city is surrounded by beautiful mountains and offers easy access to the Estrella Mountain Regional Park.
Population estimate as of July 1, 2022: 107,506
Population estimate as of July 1, 2023: 111,805
Population increase from 2022 to 2023: 4.00%
9. Buckeye, Arizona
One of the fastest-growing cities in the U.S., Buckeye combines affordability with plenty of new development. Buckeye is situated at the entrance to the Sonoran Desert National Monument, offering breathtaking desert landscapes.
Population estimate as of July 1, 2022: 105,544
Population estimate as of July 1, 2023: 108,909
Population increase from 2022 to 2023: 3.19%
10. Surprise, Arizona
Surprise lives up to its name with plenty of family-friendly attractions, including the Surprise Stadium. The city is close to White Tank Mountain Regional Park, offering fantastic hiking and stargazing opportunities. It’s known for its affordable housing and growing job market.
Population estimate as of July 1, 2022: 154,149
Population estimate as of July 1, 2023: 158,285
Population increase from 2022 to 2023: 2.68%
Join the Growing Arizona Real Estate Industry Today!
Do you want to help incoming residents find new homes in Arizona? Or help local homeowners find qualified buyers? An Arizona real estate license is your key to a flexible, lucrative career!
Learn more about how to become a real estate agent in Arizona and enroll in our 90-hour Arizona real estate course today.
Methodology
We analyzed recent U.S. Census data to find the fastest-growing cities in Arizona. After eliminating towns with fewer than 5,000 residents, we calculated the population percentage increases for the remaining cities and sorted them by the highest percentage change.
Updated 12/20/24