How a former Hay Shipping Capital became America's largest incorporated town

Countries & Cities · Published 10 October 2026 Swipe more like this →

In short: Gilbert, Arizona, holds the unique title of the most populous incorporated town in the United States. Once a quiet farming community known for hay production, this Phoenix suburb has transformed into a rapidly growing municipality. Its history is defined by rail lines, Mormon settlers, and a distinct lack of city status.

Established in 1902 by William 'Bobby' Gilbert, the town began as a strategic stop for the Arizona Eastern Railway. By 1911, it earned the moniker 'Hay Shipping Capital of the World,' a title it held until the late 1920s. The community's early social fabric was significantly shaped by the arrival of Mormon settlers in 1912, who had fled Mexico during the turmoil of Pancho Villa's forces. These settlers organized the Gilbert Ward by 1918, and their influence remains visible today, notably through the Gilbert Arizona Temple, dedicated in 2014.

Unlike its neighbors Mesa and Chandler, which are incorporated as cities, Gilbert remains a town. This legal distinction means it possesses fewer regulatory powers over utilities and construction and leaves it theoretically vulnerable to annexation. Despite this, the town has experienced explosive growth, ranking as the fastest-growing incorporated place with a population over 100,000 between 2000 and 2010. By 2025, the population had reached 287,285, reflecting a shift from its agricultural roots to a modern, affluent suburban landscape.

Modern Gilbert is characterized by high educational attainment and economic prosperity. Reports from 2019 indicated that nearly 50% of residents over age 25 held a bachelor's degree or higher. The town also maintains a strong focus on public infrastructure and community identity, exemplified by the 9/11 Memorial at Town Hall. This site features a steel girder from the World Trade Center, personally retrieved by former Fire Chief Collin DeWitt. Today, the town balances its suburban character with a commitment to public amenities, including over 600 acres of open space and a park system recognized for its inclusivity.

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