In the sun-soaked heart of Arizona lies Pinal County, a region experiencing a housing surge that’s sending waves through the state and even the nation. The county’s housing landscape is evolving at a remarkable pace, with both housing units and population numbers soaring to unprecedented heights. According to recent U.S. Census Bureau data, Pinal County’s housing units expanded by a staggering 3.5% from July 2021 to July 2022 – a growth rate that outpaces the entire state. This exponential rise in housing is mirrored by an influx of residents, turning previously quiet towns into thriving communities.
One of the standout stars in Pinal County’s housing boom is Casa Grande, a town that has transformed from a sleepy hamlet to a bustling hub. This trend is not unique to Casa Grande; various Valley communities are witnessing their own real estate renaissance. Maricopa County, the epicenter of this growth, earned recognition for the largest population increase in the country for two consecutive years. This year’s report reveals that Phoenix, a prominent city within Maricopa County, secured the second spot for population gains, narrowly trailing Fort Worth.
When it comes to growth rate, the spotlight turns to Queen Creek and the City of Maricopa. These two Valley cities clinched the seventh and twelfth spots, respectively, among the fastest-growing large cities in the U.S. Queen Creek’s growth rate hit an impressive 6.7%, while the City of Maricopa closely followed with 6.2%. Although Maricopa County led in new home additions, with 28,051 housing units introduced last year, Pinal County is steadily catching up with 6,347 new units.
The total number of housing units in Pinal County surged to 185,650 by the end of last summer, reflecting the area’s rapid development. Factors such as housing affordability and the influx of corporate businesses, like Lucid Motors and Nikola Corp., have played a pivotal role in attracting both residents and job opportunities. Brent Billingsley, Pinal County’s Director of Community Development, emphasizes the county’s dedication to balancing demand with price, making housing accessible and desirable.
As Pinal County continues to reshape Arizona’s housing landscape, it’s clear that the region’s strategic focus on the “live, work, and play” model is bearing fruit. The harmonious blend of residential, professional, and recreational aspects is fostering a vibrant ecosystem that retains its residents. With new businesses on the horizon, like the upcoming Kohler plant and Proctor & Gamble facility, the county’s appeal is set to expand further.
The Pinal County phenomenon isn’t confined to specific areas anymore – it has permeated throughout the entire region. Places like Apache Junction, Coolidge, and Red Rock are experiencing their own growth spurts, showcasing the county’s wide-reaching impact. As we watch Pinal County thrive, we can’t help but appreciate its transformation into a dynamic housing and lifestyle destination, leaving a mark that will be felt for years to come.
Sources: Az Big Media , United States Census Bureau
