Pinal County recorded the fastest population growth in Arizona last year, driven largely by steady gains in the city of Maricopa, according to new state estimates.

The Arizona Office of Economic Opportunity reports Pinal grew 3.7% between July 2024 and July 2025, the highest rate among the state’s 15 counties. The county added 18,127 residents during that period, second only to Maricopa County in total numeric growth.

Inside Pinal County, Maricopa posted the largest population increase, adding 4,894 residents during the year. The estimate reflects a 6.7% jump, outpacing Arizona’s statewide growth rate of 1.2% and reinforcing Maricopa’s status as one of the state’s most rapidly expanding cities.

Several other Pinal cities also grew faster than the statewide average, including Coolidge, Casa Grande, Florence and Eloy, according to the report.

Statewide, Arizona added 97,044 residents over the 12-month period, with officials noting continued population-driven gains in the labor force and local economies.

The annual estimates are used by state and local governments to track demographic trends and plan for infrastructure, services and development. Maricopa now ranks No. 5 statewide in raw population gains and No. 3 in growth rate, after holding the No. 2 spot from 2020 to 2024.

Cities with largest population gains

Phoenix – 11,793

Surprise – 7,027

Buckeye – 5,968

Goodyear – 5,875

Maricopa – 4,894

Glendale – 4,721

Mesa – 4,499

Marana – 3,956

Fastest growing cities/towns (by percentage)

Apache Junction – 8%

Queen Creek – 7.7%

Maricopa – 6.7%

Coolidge – 5.7%

Casa Grande – 5.3%

Florence – 3.7%

Eloy – 2.8%

Source: Pinal Partnership, July 1, 2024-July 1, 2025

Courtesy of InMaricopa, January 5, 2026