For the first time since 2017, Casa Grande has narrowly outpaced Maricopa in year-over-year population growth, according to an InMaricopa analysis of new U.S. Census Bureau estimates. But despite slipping behind its neighbor, Maricopa remains one of the fastest-growing cities in the nation — and a dominant force in Pinal County’s explosive expansion.

Maricopa added more than 5,200 residents between July 2023 and July 2024, growing 7.4% to a total population of 76,654. That ranks the city No. 28 nationally for annual growth, just behind Casa Grande, which posted a 7.7% increase to reach 68,927 residents — good for the No. 27 spot nationwide.

The cities rank No. 2 and 3 in Arizona while Queen Creek, which straddles Pinal and Maricopa Counties, led Arizona with an 8.1% jump last year.

This marks the first time since 2017 Casa Grande has outpaced Maricopa in year-over-year growth rates, a shift that underscores how competitive the race for population — and investment — has become across the county.

Maricopa continues to be a key driver in Pinal County’s population boom. The county added 27,467 residents from 2023 to 2024 — a 5.6% increase — ranking it fifth in the nation for county-level percentage growth. Its total population now stands at 513,862.

Much of that growth is fueled by Maricopa’s affordability and proximity to the Phoenix metro, attracting new residents priced out of urban housing markets. The city has also seen strong residential construction, infrastructure investment and expansion in local amenities — though its job base still lags behind that of Casa Grande, which has attracted major industrial and logistics operations in recent years.

Pinal County has been an employment magnet for industries such as semiconductor manufacturing, electric vehicle battery plants, copper mining and healthcare — sectors that have helped cities like Casa Grande draw new workers and housing developments.

Maricopa’s growth remains impressive by both state and national standards. Adjusted for size, last year, it was the second-fastest-growing city in Arizona and in 2023 it ranked among the top five in the country for overall growth. In 2022, it was the No. 3 fastest growing city in the West.

But as the latest data shows, the balance of growth in Pinal County is shifting — not away from Maricopa, but alongside it.

By raw numbers (2020–2024)

1. Queen Creek: 59,489 → 83,781 (↑ 24,292)
2. Maricopa: 58,142 → 76,654 (↑ 18,512)
3. Casa Grande: 53,660 → 68,927 (↑ 15,267)

By growth rates (2020–2024)

1. Queen Creek ↑ 40.8%
2. Maricopa ↑ 31.8%
3. Casa Grande ↑ 28.5%

By growth rates (2023-2024)

1. Queen Creek: +8.1% (No. 21 nationally)
2. Casa Grande: +7.7% (No. 27)
3. Maricopa: +7.4% (No. 28)