Gilbert is an outlying farming and residential community.

Among the top ten fastest-growing communities in the nation, Gilbert has doubled its population every five years since 1980. Even so, the town has met the many challenges of preserving the small-town atmosphere while promoting high-tech industry and progressive planning for the future.

Gilbert is proud of a lifestyle that focuses on raising a family, quality education, leisure activities and a booming business community. The sense of community is important, which is evidenced by strong public involvement and the fact that Gilbert is still incorporated as a "town", not a "city".

The town has successfully woven its agricultural heritage into a diverse economic tapestry that now includes strong retail and manufacturing sectors. This has resulted in the highest median household income in the area, over $68,000. The average age of Gilbert's residents is 30 years. New residents find that homes are still very affordable, they don't have to commute to find work, and the feel of the town is still small and friendly.

Insulated from the frantic pace of metropolitan Phoenix, Gilbert offers many amenities. A village concept of planned communities includes parks, equestrian trails, fishing, boating, and local business services all within walking distance. Gated communities, as well as equestrian properties, are available in Gilbert.

Gilbert is flourishing with many new communities.

The town has successfully woven its agricultural heritage into a diverse economic tapestry that now includes strong retail and manufacturing sectors. This has resulted in the highest median household income in the area, over $68,000. The average age of Gilbert's residents is 30 years. New residents find that homes are still very affordable, they don't have to commute to find work, and the feel of the town is still small and friendly.

The town incorporated in 1920 with 500 citizens. Between 1980 and 1990 its population quintupled, making it the fastest growing town in Arizona. By 2010, the population is projected to exceed 200,000.

Within the past five years, more than 400 employers have relocated to Gilbert, bringing 3,000 new jobs. In addition to this, a redevelopment plan completed in 1991, calls for an influx of shopping galleries and entertainment attractions.

About 65% of Gilbert's land is being utilized for residential and commercial use, allowing plenty of space for expansion. All this expansion must fit within the guidelines of the General Plan, which was adopted in 1994 to guide Gilbertâs booming growth.

The city's community recreation programs include such activities as Little League soccer and adult softball. Horse shows and adult education courses are available, as well as fishing in Freestone Parkâs stocked lakes. The Salt River Project and the Roosevelt Water Conservation District maintain many miles of canal banks as well as hiking, biking and horseback riding trails.

Annual Gilbert Days celebrations kick off with one of the largest parades in the state. For three days, IPRA Rodeo events are held. For music lovers, Concert in the Park events provides outdoor music from September through June.

Gilbert also has a Community Action Program (CAP) that promotes individual and community self-reliance by meeting the social and economic needs of low income and elderly households in the community. CAP provides many services, both in Gilbert and Higley, such as energy assistance, food boxes and financial aid. Counseling and referral services include job training and employment assistance for the unemployed.