5 Reasons Why People Love Moving from Kirkland, Washington to Gilbert, Arizona

Moving from the lush, evergreen Pacific Northwest to the sunny desert of the Southwest is a big change. Many people from Kirkland, Washington, are finding that Gilbert, Arizona, offers a lifestyle that is hard to match. Whether you are raising a family, looking to retire, or just want more for your money, the East Valley has a lot to offer.

Here are five key reasons why people are making the move from Kirkland to Gilbert.

1. More House for Your Dollar

One of the biggest drivers for the move is the real estate market. In Kirkland, the median home price often sits well above $1 million. In Gilbert, that same budget can get you a significantly larger home, often with a private pool and a much larger yard. Many buyers find they can upgrade from a modest townhome or older house in Washington to a custom or luxury property in Arizona without increasing their monthly payment.

2. A Significant Drop in Living Costs

Kirkland is known for being an expensive place to live. When you move to Gilbert, you usually see your daily expenses go down. Gas, groceries, and services tend to be more affordable here. While Washington does not have a state income tax, Arizona has a very low, flat income tax. Plus, property taxes in Arizona are generally much lower than what you will find in the Seattle area. This makes it easier for families to save and for retirees to make their nest egg last longer.

3. The End of the "Big Dark"

If you have lived in Kirkland, you know the "Big Dark" – those long months of grey skies and constant drizzle. Gilbert offers the exact opposite with over 300 days of sunshine every year. While the summers are definitely hot, the rest of the year is beautiful. You can trade your rain gear for hiking boots and golf clubs. For many, the lack of grey days leads to a much more active and positive daily life.

4. Family-Friendly Safety and Schools

Gilbert is consistently ranked as one of the safest cities in the United States. For families moving from the busy King County area, the quiet and well-kept neighborhoods of Gilbert are a breath of fresh air. The school districts here, like Gilbert Public Schools and Higley Unified, are top-rated. There are also many charter and private school options that give parents a lot of control over their children’s education.

5. A High Quality of Life and Amenities

Gilbert has done a great job of growing while keeping its small-town charm. The Heritage District is full of local restaurants and shops that rival anything you would find on the Kirkland waterfront. There are dozens of parks, splash pads, and youth sports complexes. For retirees, the active adult communities offer social clubs and events that make it easy to meet new friends and stay busy.

Gilbert offers a refreshing change of pace, where affordability, comfort, and community come together in a way that is hard to find in the Pacific Northwest.