Record Growth Continues in Maricopa, What the Means

Published on May 25, 2023

It’s no secret Maricopa is growing at record rates, even as other parts of the area have cooled, and now the numbers are in to prove it. The US Census Bureau recently released its 2022 population estimates and found that, among cities with a minimum population of 50,000 people, Maricopa ranks as the 12^th fastest-growing city in the country!  Once considered a small commuter town, the city is evolving as it welcomes new residents and businesses every day. 

The Bureau estimates that Maricopa’s population grew at a rate of 6.2% over the past year.  As of July 2022, Maricopa’s new population is 66,290. Because revenues in Arizona are distributed based on each community’s population, this large growth means Maricopa will see an estimated $1.5M more than originally anticipated– money which is budgeted to improve our streets, build new facilities, and to ensure our city remains one of the safest in the state.

Having these population estimates is also important as another enticing selling point for prospective businesses. Especially as Maricopa sets its sights on more big-box retail, restaurants, and recreational development, the population growth proves Maricopa’s viability for new businesses, and intensifies the draw for those businesses to invest in our community sooner. 

“This is great news,” says Maricopa’s Economic Development Director, Josh Bowman. “We hear from residents all the time who want more places to eat and shop. Many of the businesses that have already staked a claim here are flourishing because of our physical location. It gives them the advantage of an exclusive customer base that’s already proven its ability and willingness to spend locally. Now with more census data to back us on just how fast Maricopa is growing, the word is quickly getting out that this city is a place to find success.”

While 12^th in the nation is certainly impressive, the figures are even more favorable when stacked up against the rest of the state. Taking a look at all of Arizona, including those with populations under 50,000, here’s where Maricopa ranks:

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 addition of new housing over the course of the current year. Here’s a look at how housing progressed in Maricopa since 2022:

1. 1,475 single-family homes have been completed and occupied in the area. Based on historical figures, we expect to see about 3.2 people per single-family unit. This means an increase of 4,720 since 7/1/22.

1. 48 multi-family units have been completed since July 2022. We expect to see about 2.7 people per multi-family unit. This means an increase of 130 additional residents.

Based on those factors, the City estimates Maricopa’s current population is approximately 71,000 people as of May 1^st.