Cities & Towns in Maricopa County, AZ

As home to Phoenix, Maricopa County contains some of the largest and fastest growing cities in Arizona. But beyond the urban sprawl, Maricopa County boasts some unique smaller communities, each with distinct cultures and identities. Some of the most notable cities include Phoenix, Scottsdale, Mesa, Chandler, and Gilbert.

Phoenix serves as the county seat and state capital, offering endless amenities as a major metropolis. Neighboring Scottsdale dazzles with luxury resorts, golf courses, and high-end shopping. Mesa provides a multicultural vibe and historic adobe structures. Chandler and Gilbert offer premier master-planned communities.

• Phoenix: The largest city in the county and the state, with a population of 1,708,127. It is located in the heart of the Sonoran Desert, and has a hot and dry climate. It is a center of culture, commerce, education, and sports, hosting many museums, theaters, festivals, and professional teams. It also has a vibrant downtown area with skyscrapers, restaurants, and nightlife.
• Mesa: The second-largest city in the county and the state, with a population of 528,159. It is located east of Phoenix, and has a suburban character. It is known for its arts and culture scene, featuring the Mesa Arts Center, the Mesa Amphitheatre, and the Mesa Historical Museum. It also has several parks, golf courses, and shopping centers.
• Chandler: The third-largest city in the county and the fourth-largest in the state, with a population of 265,398. It is located southeast of Phoenix, and has a mix of urban and rural areas. It is a hub of technology and innovation, hosting many companies such as Intel, Microchip Technology, and PayPal. It also has a historic downtown area with shops and restaurants.
• Scottsdale: The fourth-largest city in the county and the fifth-largest in the state, with a population of 262,647. It is located northeast of Phoenix, and has an upscale and affluent image. It is famous for its resorts, spas, golf courses, and art galleries. It also has a lively nightlife scene with bars and clubs.
• Gilbert: The fifth-largest city in the county and the sixth-largest in the state, with a population of 257,658. It is located southeast of Phoenix, and has a fast-growing and diverse community. It is known for its family-friendly environment, featuring many parks, trails, and schools. It also has a charming downtown area with a water tower, a farmers market, and a theater.

Beyond these large municipalities, Maricopa County contains artistic towns like Tempe, mining history in Globe, and lakeside living in Peoria. From Native American heritage to Wild West roots, each city and town in Maricopa County tells its own story amidst the cacti-dotted landscape. With limitless opportunities for exploration, there is more to uncover here than just deserts.