Maricopa Recognized as 5th Fastest-Growing City in the U.S.

Published on May 21, 2024

The City of Maricopa ranked the 5th fastest-growing large city in the nation, according to the U.S. Census Bureau's latest numbers. The report looked at cities with a population larger than 50,000 and found that Maricopa saw a 7.1% increase in residents, with our population as of 7/1/23 listed at 71,022.

Growth That Benefits Everyone

This surge in population isn't just a number – it translates into real benefits for our residents.

• Increased State Shared Revenues: The larger the population, the more dollars we receive from the state to improve our streets, build new facilities, and ensure we remain one of the safest cities in the state.
• More Stores and Services: With a growing population comes a growing demand for new businesses! Get ready to welcome a wider variety of shops, restaurants, and entertainment options to our city. 
• Job Opportunities: As Maricopa grows, businesses will need talented individuals to fill a variety of roles. This translates to a thriving job market for our residents.

These numbers are part of an annual estimate the Bureau releases, while the official census is conducted every 10 years. As the annual federal estimates are released to reflect the change from the previous year, projections are traditionally behind the true population figure.

Local estimates are commonly higher as they account for the rate of growth from the previous year as well as the addition of new housing over the course of the current year. Here’s a look at how housing progressed in Maricopa since 7/1/23.

1. 765 single-family homes have been completed. Based on historical averages, we expect to see about 3.2 people per single-family unit. This means an increase of 2,448 since 7/1/23.
2. 264 multi-family units have been completed. Based on historical averages, we expect to see about 2.7 people per multi-family unit. This means an increase of 713 since 7/1/23.
3. Based on these figures, a population estimate for 5/1/2024 would be about 74,180.

Two other Arizona cities made the top 15 list. Queen Creek ranked the 3^rd fastest growing large city nationally with an increase of 8.3% and Casa Grande made the list at number 8 with a 6.2% increase. 

Pinal County remains the fastest growing county in the state at a 4.13% growth rate. The next fastest-growing county (Yuma County) which saw a 2.08% growth rate. Maricopa County grew at a rate of 0.66%, which ranked 8^th amongst Arizona counties.