If you’re thinking about moving from California to Gilbert, Arizona, you probably already have a few expectations. More sunshine, a different housing market, a suburban lifestyle, and, of course, a very different summer.
Having made the move from California to Gilbert myself, I know there are some things you simply don’t understand until you live here.
From neighborhoods and housing to commuting, weather, and everyday life, here are some of the biggest things to consider before deciding whether Gilbert is the right place for you.
Gilbert Is Definitely Suburban
One of the first things to understand about Gilbert is that it offers a very suburban lifestyle.
If you’re coming from Los Angeles, San Diego, Orange County, the Bay Area, or another more densely populated area of California, everyday life here may feel very different.
Gilbert is filled with master planned communities, parks, walking paths, shopping centers, restaurants, schools, and neighborhoods designed around community.
Areas like Power Ranch, Morrison Ranch, Agritopia, Seville, The Bridges, and Cooley Station each have their own personality and amenities.
If your ideal Saturday includes taking the kids to the park, grabbing breakfast nearby, spending the afternoon at the pool, and going out for dinner without driving into Downtown Phoenix, Gilbert could be a great fit.
If you’re looking for a highly urban environment where you can leave your car at home most days, however, Gilbert may not provide the lifestyle you’re expecting.
Expect to Drive
This is an important one for anyone relocating to Gilbert.
Gilbert is spread out, and a car is going to be a major part of everyday life for most residents.
You may have restaurants, grocery stores, schools, and parks close to your neighborhood, but when choosing a home, don’t just consider how close you are to Downtown Gilbert.
Think about where you’ll actually be going every day.
Where will you work? Will you commute to Chandler, Tempe, Scottsdale, or Phoenix? Where will your kids go to school? Where do you spend your weekends?
Two homes with Gilbert addresses can offer completely different commuting experiences depending on where they’re located.
When buying a home in Gilbert, you aren’t just choosing the house. You’re choosing its location within the community.
Your Housing Budget May Look Different in Arizona
Many people moving from California begin looking at Arizona because they’re curious about what their housing budget can buy.
You may find larger floor plans, newer construction, three car garages, community pools, parks, and other amenities that differ from what you’re used to seeing.
But don’t automatically assume moving to Gilbert means getting a huge home on a huge piece of land for a low price.
Gilbert is an established and desirable East Valley community, and certain neighborhoods can come with premium pricing. Lot sizes can also vary significantly, and many Gilbert neighborhoods have homeowners associations.
If acreage, an especially large lot, or avoiding an HOA is important to you, it may make sense to expand your search into areas like Queen Creek or parts of Mesa.
Don’t become so attached to having a Gilbert address that you overlook a neighboring community that might fit your lifestyle even better.
Yes, Arizona Summers Are Hot
There’s no way around it. Arizona summers are serious.
Looking at the temperature on your weather app also doesn’t fully explain what living through an Arizona summer feels like.
The good news is that life here is built around the climate. Air conditioning is everywhere, pools are common, and restaurants, shopping centers, gyms, and activities are designed with the heat in mind.
Your routine will probably change too.
You may walk the dog early in the morning, take the kids to the park in the evening, pay more attention to shaded parking, and suddenly realize why so many Arizona buyers love having a pool.
Your electric bill and the condition of your home’s air conditioning system may also become much more important than they were before.
The tradeoff is that much of the year can be absolutely beautiful. Arizona summers are something you learn to build your lifestyle around.
There’s More to Gilbert Than Houses
One thing that surprises some people relocating to Gilbert is just how much there is to do.
Downtown Gilbert and the Heritage District offer restaurants, coffee shops, nightlife, and community events. SanTan Village provides plenty of shopping and dining, while the surrounding area has parks, trails, golf courses, sports facilities, farmers markets, and events throughout the year.
You’re also located within the East Valley, with Chandler, Mesa, and Queen Creek nearby and access to Tempe, Scottsdale, and Phoenix depending on where you live.
Gilbert gives you the opportunity to enjoy a quieter suburban neighborhood without feeling completely disconnected from everything happening around the Valley.
Don’t Forget About Chandler, Mesa, and Queen Creek
One of my biggest pieces of advice for anyone relocating from California is to compare Gilbert with the surrounding East Valley communities before making a decision.
If you’re looking for an established community with access to major employment areas, Chandler may be worth exploring.
If you want a broad variety of neighborhoods, housing styles, locations, and price points, don’t overlook Mesa.
If newer construction, additional space, and living a little farther out appeal to you, Queen Creek may be worth considering.
And if you’re drawn to a polished suburban lifestyle with master planned communities, amenities, restaurants, and a strong sense of community, Gilbert may be exactly what you’re looking for.
The important question isn’t simply, “Do I want to live in Gilbert?”
It’s “What do I want my life in Arizona to look like?”
Arizona Homes Have Their Own Considerations
Buying a home in the desert comes with a few considerations California buyers may not immediately think about.
The age and condition of the air conditioning system can be extremely important. You’ll want to pay attention to the roof, understand the HOA when applicable, and think about whether you want a pool.
Even the direction your backyard faces can matter when you’re thinking about Arizona sunshine and afternoon heat.
These aren’t necessarily advantages or disadvantages. They’re simply part of owning a home in Arizona, and they’re details relocation buyers should understand before falling in love with a property.
Is Gilbert, Arizona Right for You?
Gilbert may be worth considering if you’re looking for suburban living, master planned communities, parks, restaurants, neighborhood amenities, and convenient access to much of the East Valley.
It can be especially appealing if you want your neighborhood and surrounding community to play a major role in your everyday lifestyle.
On the other hand, if your priorities include highly urban living, being extremely close to Downtown Phoenix, owning a very large piece of land, or simply finding the lowest priced home available, another part of the Valley may better align with your needs.
The goal isn’t to convince you that Gilbert is the best city in Arizona.
The goal is to determine whether Gilbert is the right city for you.
Thinking About Moving From California to Gilbert?
If you’re considering relocating from California to Gilbert, Arizona, or anywhere in the East Valley, we’d love to help.
Tell us where you’re moving from, your budget, where you’ll be working, and what matters most to you in a community. We can help you compare Gilbert, Chandler, Mesa, Queen Creek, and surrounding areas so you’re not just choosing a house. You’re choosing an area that fits the life you want to build in Arizona.
And if you’re still researching what it’s like to live in Gilbert, be sure to follow along for more neighborhood tours, relocation guides, housing information, and everything else you should know before making your move.
From Janine