Playa del Rey, Gilbert,AZ

Moving to Gilbert, AZ means discovering charming neighborhoods like Playa del Rey, nestled in the southeast part of the city. This community blends a cozy suburban feel with convenient access to modern amenities, making it ideal for families, young professionals, and retirees alike. Residents here enjoy a welcoming atmosphere with tree-lined streets and well-maintained parks, perfect for evening strolls or weekend picnics. Playa del Rey’s community spirit shines through local events and nearby recreational spots, ensuring newcomers quickly feel at home.

One of the standout attractions near Playa del Rey is the Gilbert Regional Park, a fantastic spot for outdoor enthusiasts featuring playgrounds, sports fields, and walking trails. For those who love a bit of culture and shopping, the Gilbert Heritage District is just a short drive away to the northwest, offering unique boutiques, cozy coffee shops, and a variety of eateries. Food lovers will appreciate the nearby dining options, ranging from casual family restaurants to trendy cafes, providing a great mix of flavors to explore. Additionally, the neighborhood’s proximity to several top-rated schools makes it a popular choice for families.

When it comes to commuting or exploring the wider Phoenix metropolitan area, Playa del Rey is conveniently located about 25 minutes southeast of Downtown Gilbert, keeping the hustle and bustle within reach without compromising on tranquility. This means residents can enjoy the best of both worlds — a peaceful neighborhood atmosphere with easy access to city life, employment centers, and entertainment venues. Whether you’re heading to work or looking to unwind after a busy day, Playa del Rey offers a perfect balance of comfort, convenience, and community pride.

In Playa del Rey, 28% of residents aged 16 and older are married, which is notably higher than the national average. This could point to a more settled, community-driven neighborhood where long-term residents and homeowners are common. It’s the kind of place where stability, and a close-knit atmosphere make it especially appealing to families and couples looking to put down roots.

With only 28% of people over 16 having children, you can expect an easygoing environment that tends to attract residents seeking a quieter lifestyle. The atmosphere here leans more toward adult-oriented living. Without the constant rhythm of school schedules or kid-centered events, the community maintains a slower, more relaxed pace. This makes it especially appealing to singles, couples, and empty nesters who appreciate tranquil streets, and recreation on their own terms.

Playa del Rey demographics offer valuable insights into the character and lifestyle of the neighborhood, helping you understand who lives there and what daily life might feel like. Home to only about 221 residents, Playa del Rey is notably smaller than many other Gilbert neighborhoods, creating a more peaceful and community-oriented atmosphere. Its lower population can translate to quieter streets, a more relaxed pace of life, and easier access to local amenities — all without sacrificing the vibrant urban lifestyle the city is known for.

With a lower than average population density of 1,378 people per square mile, Playa del Rey offers a more open and spacious environment compared to many other Gilbert neighborhoods. This often means quieter streets, less congestion, and a relaxed atmosphere — all while still providing access to the amenities and conveniences of city living.

With an average age of 34, you're likely to find a well-balanced community where multiple generations live side by side. This mix of age groups contributes to a neighborhood atmosphere that’s both active and welcoming, offering a blend of fresh perspectives and long-standing community values.

The Playa del Rey crime map offers a clear, data-driven look at how crime is distributed throughout the neighborhood, using block group data to highlight both safer areas and potential hot spots. The color-coded map makes it easy to see where crime is more concentrated and where it occurs less frequently, helping residents and prospective buyers better understand local safety patterns. It’s important to note that darker or red zones on the map don’t necessarily mean those areas are unsafe — locations near busy transit hubs, shopping districts, or popular attractions often show higher activity simply due to larger crowds and increased foot traffic.

Housing costs often reflect the desirability and overall character of a neighborhood. In Playa del Rey, home prices come in around $436,650, which is higher than many other areas. This elevated pricing points to a sought-after location with strong demand, well-maintained properties, and access to premium amenities that contribute to a higher quality of life. Historical home price trends and appreciation rates in Playa del Rey can serve as a window into the neighborhood’s economic strength and future potential. By understanding how the market has performed in the past, buyers and investors can better evaluate whether the area offers promising opportunities for growth and long-term value.

The median rent is around $1,483, which is on par with many comparable neighborhoods. This balanced pricing offers a mix of affordability and value, making it a practical choice for a wide range of renters.

School ratings in Playa del Rey combine factors like student performance, graduation rates, and standardized test scores to provide a clear picture of overall educational quality. The use of NAEP (National Assessment of Educational Progress) scores adds valuable context by offering a consistent national benchmark to see how local schools compare on a broader scale. Additionally, understanding the overall education level achieved by residents in Playa del Rey can give insight into the community’s priorities and opportunities, helping families make more informed decisions about where to live and how well local schools may support long-term student success.