Angelo “Russ” Salvatore Veterans Day 2021

Gilbert Arizona has collected more than a few “best cities” designations over the years, which probably accounts for the constant influx of people relocating here to the East Valley. Among Gilbert’s more significant awards are Best Cities for Early Retirement, Best City to Raise a Family, Smart Cities North America Finalist and for two years running, Forbes Best Cities for Renters. Just a short time ago, Stacker placed Gilbert 12th on their Best Big Cities to Live in America, well ahead of places like San Diego and Colorado Springs. And the Safest Cities in America moniker just last month was certainly welcome though not surprising. But I could not fail to mention my favorite distinction, and the reason the Phoenix Valley truly is one the best places to live, our self-appointed  ‘8 months of the best weather in the country’ award. Though I must admit, we’re also the proud defenders of the ‘hottest inhabited patch of earth in the U.S’ prize.

All humor aside, Gilbert has so much more to its credit than even our long-time residents realize. For example, did you know that WalletHub just placed both Gilbert and Chandler in the top 12 on their list of ‘Best Cities for Veterans’ in 2023?