San Tan Valley is a growing suburban community located in Pinal County, Arizona, approximately 35 miles southeast of Phoenix. As of 2023, the estimated population of San Tan Valley is around 138,000, making it one of the fastest growing places in Arizona over the past decade.
Population and Demographics
According to census data and population estimates, the population of San Tan Valley has grown enormously since the community was founded in the mid-2000s. In 2010, the population was recorded at just over 81,000 residents. By 2020, estimates placed the population at 132,213, reflecting over 60% growth in a ten year period. Much of this rapid growth can be attributed to the affordable housing prices and abundant land available for new residential development, attracting families and individuals from the Phoenix metropolitan area.
The racial makeup of San Tan Valley is predominantly White (73.3%), with Hispanic/Latino residents making up the second largest demographic group at 20.4%, according to Wikipedia. Other races include Black or African American (3.5%), Asian (2.3%), American Indian and Alaska Native (1.2%), and Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander (0.2%). 5.4% of the population identified as two or more races. The median age is 32.8 years old.
History and Local Government
San Tan Valley is located within the boundaries of Pinal County, the third most populous county in Arizona. The area remained very sparsely populated through most of the 1900s, with agriculture and ranching being the primary economic activities. However, in the early 2000s major planned residential communities such as Johnson Ranch, Canyon Ridge, and San Tan Heights were developed, bringing thousands of new homes and residents to the valley over a short period of time.
While not officially incorporated as an independent town or city, San Tan Valley has a defined municipal planning area and urban services such as police and fire protection are provided by Pinal County agencies. Many local government resources can be found on the Pinal County San Tan Valley website.
Economy and Major Employers
In its early years, San Tan Valley’s economy focused almost entirely on providing housing and services to the rapid influx of new residents. As the community has matured, efforts have been made to attract businesses and diversify employment opportunities. Retail, healthcare, hospitality, and construction are major sources of jobs currently. Major private employers include Walmart, Bashas’ Supermarket, Ashton Woods Homes, and Hilton Garden Inn.
Information on economic development initiatives in San Tan Valley and Pinal County can be found on the Pinal County Economic Development website.
The median household income in San Tan Valley is $79,797, which is significantly higher than the statewide median in Arizona of $62,055 according to Census data. The major industries providing employment are construction, retail trade, healthcare and social assistance, educational services, and hospitality.
Parks and Recreation
For a relatively new community, San Tan Valley offers residents diverse recreational amenities across its neighborhoods. Some of the most popular parks and attractions include:
- San Tan Mountain Regional Park – One of the most iconic landmarks and outdoor recreation spots in San Tan Valley. The park features over 10,000 acres of open space with trails for hiking, biking, and horseback riding. Visitors can explore areas like the Hunt Highway Ruins and take in panoramic views from the top of San Tan Mountain. The park is managed by Maricopa County.
- Schnepf Farms – This family-owned working farm opened to the public in 1971 and has become a classic country attraction in San Tan Valley, featuring u-pick fresh produce, a bakery and sweets shop, and seasonal festivals. Visitors can go on tractor-pulled wagon rides, explore the miniature town, and dine at the Farmhouse Restaurant.
- Johnson Ranch Skate Park – An expansive skate park with over 25,000 square feet of bowls, ramps, rails and pipes catering to skateboarders and BMX riders of all skill levels. The county-run park also hosts competitions and events.
- Combs Road Park – Home to popular amenities like a man made beach lagoon, an aquatic center with water slides and lap pools, sports fields, and a dog park.
Sports
There are not currently any major professional sports teams based in San Tan Valley itself. However, residents are big supporters of Arizona’s pro teams such as the Phoenix Suns (NBA), Arizona Cardinals (NFL), Arizona Diamondbacks (MLB), and Arizona Coyotes (NHL).
For youth and high school sports, the community is part of the Arizona Interscholastic Association. Notable teams include the Combs High School Coyotes and Poston Butte High School Broncos.
Annual Events
Some of the popular annual events that bring the San Tan Valley community together include:
- Pinal County Cowboy Days Rodeo – Professional rodeo and festival held every February.
- San Tan Valley Parade of Lights – An illuminated nighttime parade each December.
- San Tan Brewfest – Showcases beers from Arizona craft breweries every November.
- Moonrise Festival – Evening arts, music, and food event coinciding with the Harvest Moon each fall.
The San Tan Valley AZ Community Facebook group has over 27,000 members sharing news, events, recommendations, and more about the area. Check out the group here.