This article provides a comprehensive overview of Gilbert, Arizona, a town with a rich history and a vibrant community.
Founded by William Bobby Gilbert in the early 20th century, the town quickly gained prominence as the Hay Capital of the World.
Between 2000 and 2010, Gilbert experienced significant population growth, earning the distinction of being the fastest-growing incorporated place in the United States during that time.
Located in the southeast portion of the Phoenix metropolitan area, Gilbert spans 68.8 square miles and features a subtropical, hot desert climate.
Notable landmarks and cultural sites, such as the 9/11 Memorial and the Gilbert Arizona Temple, contribute to the town’s cultural significance.
Gilbert also prioritizes education, boasting notable schools and a historical museum.
Furthermore, the town offers ample recreational opportunities with well-maintained parks and facilities like Gilbert Regional Park and the Freestone Recreation Center.
Governed as a town and part of Arizona’s 5th congressional district, Gilbert prides itself on its safety, livability, and family-friendly environment.
Overall, this article aims to provide a thorough and analytical exploration of Gilbert’s historical, demographic, geographical, cultural, educational, recreational, governmental, and safety aspects.
Early Settlement and Agricultural Roots
Gilbert, Arizona was initially established by William Bobby Gilbert, who facilitated the construction of a rail line between Phoenix and Florence, Arizona, and later became primarily known as an agriculture-based community.
The town experienced significant growth in the early 20th century, attracting many Mormon settlers who had fled the Mormon colonies in Mexico.
Gilbert was officially incorporated in July 1920 and gained recognition as the Hay Capital of the World from 1911 until the late 1920s.
The town’s agricultural roots played a crucial role in its development and economy.
As of the 2020 census, Gilbert had a population of 267,918, and it was the fastest-growing incorporated place in the United States between 2000 and 2010, with a population increase of 90.0%.
The average age of residents in 2019 was 33.6 years, and 34.5% held a bachelor’s degree or higher.
The town’s average household income in 2009 was $109,213, with a median household income of $89,077.
Population Growth and Demographics
In recent years, the population of this town has experienced significant growth, as evidenced by the 90.0% increase in population between 2000 and 2010.
Gilbert, Arizona, has emerged as one of the fastest-growing incorporated places in the United States.
The average age of residents in 2019 was 33.6 years, reflecting a relatively young population.
Read more: Living in Gilbert, AZ: Family-Friendly City With Rich History and Outdoor Adventures
Additionally, 34.5% of Gilbert residents hold a bachelor’s degree or higher, indicating a well-educated community.
In 2020, the town’s population reached 267,918. The average household income in 2009 was $109,213, with a median household income of $89,077.
Gilbert’s growth can be attributed to factors such as favorable economic conditions, opportunities for employment, and a reputation for safety and livability.
The town’s demographic profile suggests a thriving community that attracts individuals seeking freedom and a high quality of life.
Geography and Climate
Located in the southeastern part of the Phoenix metropolitan area, Gilbert experiences a subtropical, hot desert climate characterized by dry and hot summers and mild to warm winters.
The town is situated in a subtropical, hot desert climate zone, which is influenced by its location in the Sonoran Desert. Gilbert receives little rainfall throughout the year, with an average annual precipitation of 9.21 inches.
The average temperatures range from 10.0°C (50.0°F) in January to 12.2°C (54.0°F) in December. The town enjoys a total of 235.7 sunny days per year.
The climate in Gilbert is typical of the region, with hot and dry summers and mild and warm winters.
The dry and hot summers are a result of the desert climate, while the mild and warm winters are a result of the town’s location in a subtropical climate zone.
Overall, Gilbert experiences a climate that is characteristic of the desert Southwest region of the United States.
Landmarks and Cultural Significance
The town of Gilbert is home to notable landmarks and cultural sites that contribute to its historical and cultural significance.
One such landmark is the 9/11 Memorial located at Town Hall, which features an eight-foot steel girder beam from the North Tower of the World Trade Center.
Another significant landmark is the Gilbert Arizona Temple, dedicated in 2014, which holds importance for members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.
Gilbert also has several historic buildings listed in the National Register of Historic Places, including Gilbert Elementary School, built in 1913, and Gilbert High School, built in 1920.
Additionally, the Gilbert Water Tower, constructed in 1925, and Gilbert’s First Jail House, built in 1918, exemplify the town’s historical value.
These landmarks and cultural sites serve as tangible reminders of Gilbert’s past and contribute to the town’s cultural identity.
Education and Historical Preservation
Education and historical preservation are key focus areas in Gilbert. The town has several historic buildings listed in the National Register of Historic Places.
The Gilbert Historical Museum is located in the Gilbert Elementary School building built in 1913. It showcases the town’s rich history.
Another prominent historic building is Gilbert High School, constructed in 1920. It now houses the Gilbert Public School District Office.
The town’s commitment to education is evident in its high percentage of residents holding a bachelor’s degree or higher, which stands at 34.5%.
Gilbert values its historical heritage and has taken steps to preserve it through the inclusion of historic buildings in the National Register.
These efforts contribute to the vibrant community and provide valuable educational resources for residents and visitors alike.
Parks and Recreation Opportunities
Parks and recreation opportunities in the town of Gilbert include the recently established Gilbert Regional Park and Desert Sky Park, which have received significant investments to enhance their facilities and amenities.
Gilbert Regional Park features a variety of outdoor recreational activities, including hiking trails, sports fields, and playgrounds.
The park also offers picnic areas and shaded ramadas for visitors to enjoy.
Desert Sky Park provides open spaces for walking, jogging, and cycling, as well as basketball courts and a skate park.
Both parks aim to provide a natural and enjoyable environment for residents and visitors to engage in physical activity and connect with nature.
These investments reflect the town’s commitment to promoting an active and healthy lifestyle for its community members.
Government and Infrastructure
Government and infrastructure in the town of Gilbert include recognition as the 36th Best Place to Live in the nation in 2010 and the ranking of Gilbert as the safest municipality in Arizona and the 25th safest in the nation by CQ Press.
Gilbert remains incorporated as a town and lacks the additional powers possessed by nearby Mesa and Chandler.
The town is part of Arizona’s 5th congressional district, represented by Andy Biggs.
Gilbert is primarily served by the Santan Freeway portion of Loop 202, with a small section of the US 60 Superstition Freeway. Several regional arterials serve the area, including Williams Field Road, Chandler Boulevard, and Gilbert Road.
Gilbert has a low percentage of households without a car, averaging 2.08 cars per household in 2016, compared to the national average of 1.8.
Community Safety and Livability
Community Safety and Livability in Gilbert, Arizona is a significant aspect of the town’s overall appeal.
Gilbert has consistently ranked highly in national surveys for safety, livability, and family life.
In fact, CQ Press rated Gilbert as the safest municipality in Arizona and the 25th safest in the nation.
This recognition reflects the town’s commitment to maintaining a secure and welcoming environment for its residents.
The town’s government and infrastructure play a crucial role in ensuring the safety of its community members.
Gilbert’s police force, along with other local authorities, work diligently to enforce laws and maintain order.
Additionally, the town’s investment in parks and recreational facilities, such as Gilbert Regional Park and the Freestone Recreation Center, contribute to the overall livability of the community.
These amenities provide residents with opportunities for leisure, wellness, and social engagement, enhancing the quality of life in Gilbert.