By Elias Weiss | InMaricopa
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.
