If it seems like the population of Arizona has swelled in the last few years, you're not imagining things. Arizona is home to three of the fastest growing cities in the entire nation.

According to the US Census Bureau, Arizona's population grew by 11.9% from 2010 to 2020, making it the fifth fastest growing state in the country. But which cities are leading this growth? Let's find out!

The 5 Fastest Growing Cities in Arizona

5. San Tan Valley

San Tan Valley is an unincorporated community in Pinal County, and about 45 miles southeast of Phoenix.

San Tan Valley is currently the fifth fastest growing city in Arizona, with a 44% increase in population from 2010 to 2020.  San Tan Valley is close to the San Tan Mountain Regional Park, a 10,200-acre park with scenic views and wildlife.

4. Goodyear

Find Goodyear in Maricopa County, just about 20 miles west of Phoenix. This fast growing city saw a 46% increase in population since the 2010 census. Goodyear's a vibrant city with a lot of amenities and attractions, like Goodyear Ballpark, where the Cleveland Indians and Cincinnati Reds hold spring training.

Goodyear is a nature lovers dream with Estrella Mountain Regional Park on its doorstep, where hiking, biking and horseback riding trails abound.

3. Queen Creek

Queen Creek straddles both Maricopa and Pinal counties, and you'll find it about 35 miles southeast of Phoenix. Queen Creek in not only one of the fastest growing cities in Arizona, it clocks in as the third fastest growing city in America, according to WorldAtlas.com.

This is the third fastest growing Arizona city, which charted a 49.1% increase in population. Queen Creek feels both charmingly rural and modern at the same time.

Also famous for its farms and orchards like Schnepf Farms and Queen Creek Olive Mill, this growing community has something for everyone.

2. Marana

Marana is the only town on our list near Tucson. Located in Pima County just outside northwest Tucson, this is the second fastest growing city in Arizona. The population increased 50.4% increase between 2010 and 2020.

Marana's rich history and culture dates back to the Hohokam civilization and it's well known for its golf courses.

1. Buckeye

Drum Roll Please....

The fastest growing city in Arizona is Buckeye, also in Maricopa County right around 30 miles west of Phoenix. WorldAtlas.com reports that Buckeye is the fourth fastest growing city in the United States.

With a whopping 80.9% increase in population, Buckeye has a lot of land for development, and it offers affordable housing and a somewhat rural lifestyle.

Buckeye is also home to the Skyline Regional Park, a 8,700-acre park with hiking, biking and camping opportunities.