Pinal County is transforming from a regional economy that was once primarily based on agriculture and mining to one that is dynamic and diversified. In fact, in recent years the County has seen development and announced projects, primarily in manufacturing, that will create over 13,500 jobs and will result in investment of over $10 billion.
The County’s strategic location at the crossroads of major highways and the Union Pacific Railroad and between several of the world’s largest economies – including California, Texas and Mexico – ensures great access to key markets and supply chains.
We are bolstered by plentiful, affordable land and businessfriendly communities that continue to invest in key public infrastructure as well as water solutions to support continued economic growth.
Our region has become one of the epicenters of the movement towards electric vehicles with car manufacturers like Lucid and battery manufacturers like LG Energy Solution. This transformation is driving additional demand for copper and will result in billions of dollars in investment in our communities in the coming years.
Other companies that have announced projects in the County are in the semiconductor supply chain, building materials, and consumer goods industries, with Kohler having opened a plant in 2024 and Procter & Gamble currently developing a $500 million manufacturing facility.
The County has invested in its citizens through innovative workforce development programs and partnerships with the state, our communities and Central Arizona College. A direct result of this is Drive 48 a facility that has been used for training thousands of workers. These efforts help ensure that our current and future employers have the workforce that they need, and that our citizens are ready for the jobs of the future.
We are located between two of the premier public universities in the nation - Arizona State University and the University of Arizona – which provide our employers with access to tens of thousands of highly-educated graduates every year.
Pinal County is transforming into a key player in the global economy. We hope you will consider joining us.
Leo Lew Pinal County Manager
WHY PINAL COUNTY
Pinal County, incorporated in February 1875, comprises 5,374 square miles. Nestled between Maricopa County (Phoenix) and Pima County (Tucson), Pinal County is home to over 475K residents. The County has two distinct regions: the eastern mountainous area (copper mining and tourism) and the western lower valley desert area (manufacturing, distribution and agriculture).
Located in the very heart of the Sun Corridor, Pinal County has a very diverse economy. Since the County’s inception 135 years ago, copper mining has been and remains an economic mainstay, creating thousands of jobs and billions of dollars in tax revenue to the state, county and local economies. The movement towards electric vehicles and other green energy technology has resulted in a rebirth of mining operations. Another major economic engine is agriculture. The central to western area of the County is home to hundreds of family, corporate and university-based farms supporting various types of agricultural products.
Major manufacturing operations and distribution firms are centered along Pinal County’s main traffic corridors of Interstate 10 (California to Florida), Interstate 8, (Pinal County to San Diego) and US Route 60. Rail corridors in the County also include the Union Pacific Sunset Line (Long Beach to El Paso) and Copper Basin railroads. Pinal County provides an opportunity to create a major multi-modal warehouse/distribution network along with locations for rail served manufacturing operations.
The County is also seeing strong growth in the emerging manufacturing and technology sectors such as aerospace and aviation, electric vehicles and batteries, bio-technology, renewable/green technologies (solar and wind), and semiconductors and EV supply chain expansions. The County’s robust recreational, cultural and tourism opportunities, contribute to the continued creation of a diverse economy and high-wage job opportunities as well as a very high quality of life.
The County is centrally located and within a reasonable drive to significant commercial air service. Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport is within an hour of most of Pinal County, while Mesa Gateway Airport is located near the northeastern boundary with Maricopa County. Tucson International Airport also provides an option for many Pinal County residents, and is within a one hour drive. Several general aviation airports are also located in the County including Pinal Airpark, which is home to operations related to aircraft storage and heavy maintenance facilities for commercial jets.
Several national, state and county parks and recreation areas are located in the County ranging from the Casa Grande Ruins National Park in Coolidge, to the Boyce Thompson Arboretum near Superior, the Florence Historical District, and McFarland State Historic Park, both located in the Town of Florence, Picacho Peak State Park near Red Rock, the Lost Dutchman State Park in Apache Junction and Oracle State Park near Oracle. Water sports and fishing are available at San Carlos lake, located in the northeast area of the County above the Gila River on the San Carlos Indian Reservation. Thousands of people from around the world come to Pinal County to visit these and other parks and recreation areas and to take advantage of the moderate, year-round weather.
These assets along with a “pro-business” climate that has been developed and implemented by Pinal County and our community governments, the availability of and affordability of land, well managed water resources, an excellent transportation system and power grid and a skilled, trained and available workforce, all create a multitude of opportunities.
WELCOME TO PINAL COUNTY – WIDE OPEN OPPORTUNITY!
COMMUNITY SNAPSHOTS
APACHE JUNCTION | APACHEJUNCTIONAZ.GOV
Apache Junction, located in northern Pinal County and immediately adjacent to the Phoenix metro area, has significant prospects for future economic development growth. The community offers plenty of land to support new manufacturing and distribution/logistics locations, as well as commercial development. The State Route 24 extension, the US-60 corridor and the future North/South corridor all further increase the attractiveness of Apache Junction as a business location. There are also plentiful opportunities around tourism, outdoor recreation and equestrian lifestyles.
CASA GRANDE | CASAGRANDEAZ.GOV
Casa Grande serves as a manufacturing, logistics, health care, retail and commercial hub for Pinal County. The community is conveniently located between the state’s major metropolitan areas of Phoenix and Tucson, and has thousands of acres of developable land in its industrial corridor. These sites are zoned for industrial uses and are available at a fraction of the cost of metro-area lands. Casa Grande offers strategic benefits, workforce solutions, and a high quality of life, which is why Lucid Motors and many other advanced manufacturing and logistics companies have chosen to call Casa Grande home.
COOLIDG E | COOLIDGEAZ.COM
Centrally located between Phoenix and Tucson, Coolidge is your destination for business. With easy access to I-8 and I-10, accessible rail service, a growing population and a staff dedicated to facilitation of projects, Coolidge means business. The city is home to Lucid Motors’ new manufacturing facility, advancing Pinal County’s electric vehicle industry. The Procter & Gamble manufacturing facility under development will further enhance Coolidge’s economic growth and regional significance.
ELOY | ELOYAZ.GOV
The City of Eloy, strategically located midway between Phoenix and Tucson, and only 2 hours from Mexico has been a key location for truck and traveler services for many years. The community’s excellent location, affordable land prices and a consistent pro-growth attitude have made it the new location for industrial, distribution and residential investment. With over 12 miles of I-10 frontage and four full-diamond interchanges, exploring a location in Eloy is a smart move for relocation or expansion.
FLORENCE | FLORENCEAZ.GOV
Florence, located between the Phoenix and Tucson metropolitan areas, has experienced dramatic growth and development in recent years. With its proud western heritage, historic downtown district, and cherished traditions including the Junior Parada, the world’s oldest sanctioned youth rodeo, the Town has maintained its small-town ambiance, sense of place and character while managing this rapid development. As the Pinal County seat, Florence is well-equipped to accommodate future development due to its ample water supply, abundance of developable land, and its forward-thinking leaders, who
are committed to fostering responsible growth while remaining responsive to the needs of its citizens and business community.
MARICOPA | MARICOPA-AZ.GOV
The City of Maricopa celebrated its 20th year of incorporation in 2023. In this short time, the community has grown tremendously from a community of just over 5,000 residents to 80,000 residents. The community boasts a quality of life unlike any other, and has been identified as the best place to raise a family in Arizona from Homesnack.com and the fourth safest City in Arizona from Alarms.org. The City also has a surplus of ready-to-work employees, with 62% having attended at least some college. In addition, the City has Amtrak’s only stop in the Phoenix area. This is only one of the strong connections to local and global markets that create an outstanding location to work and do business.
QUEEN CREEK | QUEENCREEKAZ.GOV
The Town of Queen Creek is a fast growing community with a young, highly educated workforce, located in the northeastern portion of Pinal County. The Town is strategically located just south of Mesa Gateway Airport, the ASU Polytechnic campus, and has ample land available for industrial and commercial development along the new SR-24. LG Energy Solution recently announced manufacturing projects that total $5.5 billion dollars in investment and will employ nearly 4,000 people.
SAN TAN VALLEY | PINAL.GOV
Town of San Tan Valley, now Arizona’s newest incorporated municipality, achieved city status in 2025 following a successful vote for self-governance. With a population of more than 106,000 residents, it ranks as the 11th largest town in Arizona. The community continues to experience strong residential, retail, and business growth, supported by new infrastructure planning and local leadership. San Tan Valley was recently named one of the top five best communities to move to by AZ Big Media.
SUPERIOR | SUPERIORAZ.GOV
The Town of Superior is strategically located on the US-60 Highway in northeastern Pinal County, and is the gateway to Arizona’s Copper Corridor. In addition to being the site of one of the world’s largest untapped copper ore deposits, the Town is heralded as a destination for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers. Surrounded by majestic mountains, hikers, bikers, off-roaders and other adventure seekers can explore and experience both peaceful and thrilling activities. The Boyce Thompson Arboretum is another cornerstone attraction of the community with over 100,000 visitors a year. In addition to enhancing its reputation as a premier tourism destination, the Town is investing in a diverse economy characterized by high-quality jobs and a growing entrepreneurial ecosystem through its innovative Superior Enterprise Center.
ELOY , ARIZONA
QUALITY OF LIFE
Pinal County is world renowned for its wide open spaces and abundance of natural and majestic beauty.
HOUSING
From sprawling ranches and equestrian estates to master planned communities, housing in Pinal County is plentiful. Home ownership is more attainable in Pinal County than the Phoenix Metro area. The median home value in Pinal County is approximately $376,000, which is more in line with the US as a whole ($435,295) and well below the median value of homes in Maricopa County ($555,000).
EDUCATION
Educational offerings abound in Pinal County with 106 elementary, middle and high schools as well as 19 charter schools. For postsecondary education, Pinal County residents are within commuting distance of both Arizona State University’s Tempe campus and the Polytechnic campus in Mesa and the University of Arizona’s Tucson campus.
Central Arizona College, Pinal County’s primary two-year, accredited postsecondary institution has five campuses located throughout the county as well as a comprehensive online presence.
PARKS AND RECREATION
Throughout the year, people from around the world visit Pinal County for its parks and recreational areas, including the Casa Grande Ruins National Monument, Boyce Thompson Arboretum State Park, the Florence Historic District, McFarland State Historic Park, Oracle State Park and San Carlos Lake.
ARTS AND CULTURE
Pinal County’s arts and cultural scene appeals to history buffs and art lovers alike. The Pinal County Historical Society & Museum brings visitors back to America’s Old West with Native American artifacts, relics of the pioneer era and other vestiges of frontier days. In addition to these landmarks, residents can also enjoy seasonal events such as the Renaissance Festival, Country Thunder Music Festival, and, of course, spring training baseball games throughout the metro Phoenix area.
BUSINESS CLIMATE
Operating costs in Pinal County are at least 36% lower than in California. Combined with targeted business tax credits and easy access to a broad range of global and regional markets, including Mexico, California, and Texas, firms based in Pinal County have a distinct financial advantage over many major markets in the country.
The Pinal County Board of Supervisors and the elected bodies of its municipal governments work vigorously and collaboratively to ensure that companies benefit from a business-friendly culture.
STATE OF ARIZONA: OPEN FOR BUSINESS
Arizona is an unparalleled location for business expansion and relocation thanks to its reduced government regulations, available workforce and low cost environment –including a corporate income tax is that among the lowest in the nation. Other business advantages include:
No corporate franchise tax
No income tax on dividends from out-of-state subsidiaries
No worldwide unitary tax
Support foreign trade zones
Accelerated depreciation schedules
100% of net operating loss carried forward for five years
Minimal regulation
Right-to-work state
Low unionization
Targeted incentives
WITH SO MANY CORPORATE ADVANTAGES, IT IS NO WONDER WHY ARIZONA CONSISTENTLY RANKS HIGH FOR BUSINESS SUCCESS.
TOP 10
Area Development Magazine ranks Arizona in the Top 10 in many key business factors, including Access to Capital & Funding, Competitive Labor Market, Cooperative & Responsive State/Local Government, Workforce Training Programs, Available Real Estate, and Corporate Tax Structure. (2023)
ARIZONA IS RECOGNIZED BY MULTIPLE PUBLICATIONS FOR ITS BUSINESS CLIMATE QUALITY AND AVAILABILITY OF WORKFORCE (CNBC, 2022) #3
BEST STATE FOR BUSINESS (Chief Executive Magazine, 2023)
BEST STATE FOR INFRASTRUCTURE AND TRANSPORTATION (CNBC, 2022)
BUSINESS FRIENDLINESS (CNBC, 2022)
TALENT / WORKFORCE
Pinal County has a young, talented workforce that is key to helping our local employers thrive. Nearly 58% of the County’s residents have some college experience, and over 34% have an associates degree or higher. Roughly 85% of the County’s workforce is employed in service providing industries, while 15% are employed in goods producing industries which include agriculture, mining, construction, and manufacturing.
With a County labor force of over 200,000 workers – and combined with 600,000 additional workers who reside within communities such as Mesa, Chandler, Gilbert, Queen Creek, Tempe and Marana - employers based in Pinal County can readily capitalize on the nearly 800,000 skilled employees, many in managerial, professional and technical fields.
The County is committed to developing its talent pipeline. A Pinal County location offers an extraordinary wealth of training and educational resources for companies across the economic spectrum. All three state universities - University of Arizona, Arizona State University and Northern Arizona University - have programs in or within close proximity of Pinal County.
For business that require custom and specialized training, ARIZONA@WORK, a statewide workforce development consortium, can work directly with companies in recruiting, developing and retaining as well as retraining the best employees for their needs. Candidate matching and screening, skills assessment, on-the-job training, internships, and apprenticeships are only part of what ARIZONA@WORK offers to companies locating and expanding in Pinal County.
In addition, the County’s Board of Supervisors has approved a job training reimbursement program for high-impact projects and/or those that create high-wage jobs.
EDUCATIONAL ATTAINMENT
The County also maintains programs and partnerships to assist its employers in securing the workforce they need and to upskill our residents to prepare them for the jobs of the future.
Drive48 is a partnership between the Arizona Commerce Authority, the County, Casa Grande, Central Arizona College and Lucid Motors which has trained over 2,000 workers.
POPULATION
POPULATION BY AGE
24.6%: 0 - 19 YEARS
21.6%: 20-34 YEARS
35-54 YEARS
DEGREE OR HIGHER
PRO-BUSINESS INCENTIVES
FOREIGN TRADE ZONES
Foreign Trade Zones (FTZ) are designated sites licensed by the FTZ Board, and remain under supervision of the U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP). Foreign and domestic merchandise may be moved into zones for storage, exhibition, assembly, manufacturing, and processing without payment of duties, quota and other import restrictions until the decision is made to enter the goods into the U.S. market.
BENEFITS INCLUDE:
Duty deferral
Duty elimination on exports
Duty reduction (inverted tariff relief) and elimination on imports
Scrap/Waste savings
No time constraints on storage
Shorter transit time - Direct Delivery
Weekly entry
Arizona offers an over 70% reduction in real and personal property taxes for activated FTZs (certain restrictions apply)
Currently, most of Pinal County is part of the expanded territory (Alternative Site Framework (ASF)) for Foreign Trade Zone #75 administered by the City of Phoenix. Southern Pinal County is a part of Foreign Trade Zone #174, which is administered by Sun Corridor Inc.
OPPORTUNITY ZONES
The program was created to increase investment by investors into specific low-income communities. Under the program, investors who experience capital gains can invest that money into Qualified Opportunity Funds that spur development in designated census tracts known as Opportunity Zones. Doing so comes with tax benefits to the investors, and most importantly, provides positive economic and social impacts within these communities. Pinal County has nine designated Opportunity Zones.
CONNECTIVITY / MARKET ACCESS
Pinal County is ideally located in the heart of the Sun Corridor. This prime location, along with modern well-developed infrastructure, including multiple freeways, rail systems, and airports offer the ability to access some of the world’s largest economies, including California, Texas and Mexico - and over 35 million consumers within a single day’s truck haul. The County’s multi-modal transportation systems allow people and products to move efficiently throughout the region.
RAILWAYS
Union Pacific’s rail operations in Pinal County, along with its competitive freight rates, are a key driver for a producer economy. The service intersects the County, with multi-modal opportunities along the I-10 and I-8 freeways.
AIRPORTS
Businesses and residents can access nearly any destination throughout the U.S. and the world through three major airportsPhoenix Sky Harbor International Airport, Tucson International Airport, and Mesa Gateway Airport – which are all within a one hour drive of most of Pinal County.
INTERSTATE HIGHWAYS
Pinal County is connected to numerous major markets through a robust infrastructure of freeways and interstate highways.
In fact, a one-day truck haul can reach markets in California, Nevada, Utah, Colorado, New Mexico, Texas, and Mexico. The County’s major traffic corridors include:
Interstate 10 (California to Florida)
Interstate 8 (Pinal County to San Diego)
US Route 60 (Access to New Mexico)
Highway 87 (Bisects the County)
Improvements to I-10 through Pinal County are expected to be complete in 2026, which will increase accessibility to other markets, including the Phoenix Metro area.
In addition, the state of Arizona is working with the federal government on Interstate 11. Once complete, this highway will provide access to an extensive trade corridor which is expected to consist of a continuous four-lane highway from Mexico City through Arizona and Las Vegas, Nevada to Edmonton, Alberta in Canada.
TRANSPORTATION/DISTRIBUTION
The County’s strategic location and excellent access has resulted in many manufacturing and major distribution firms locating here.
PROXIMITY
FOUNDED: 1875 AREA: 5,374 mi2
POPULATION: 453,924 (Arizona Office of Economic Opportunity, 2022)
Coolidge Municipal Airport
Eloy Municipal Airport
Chandler Municipal Airport
Casa Grande Municipal Airport
Ak-Chin Regional Airport
TOHONO O’ODHAM NATION
Pinal Airpark
Displayed companies/establishments are those that have been recently announced or are already existing in Pinal County prior to publication.
San Manual
Copper Mine
Ray Mine
Carlota Mine
San Manual Airport
Kearny Airport
INDUSTRIAL PARKS
APACHE JUNCTION
(ARIZONA STATE LAND)
Location: State Route 24 and Ironwood
Size: +/- 1,000 acres total
Zoning: Master Planned Community (Industrial uses permitted)
CENTRAL ARIZONA COMMERCE PARK (CASA GRANDE)
Home to Lucid Motors and semi-conductor supply chain companies
Location: NEC Burris Road & Peters Road
Size: ±740 acres total
Zoning: I-2 Heavy Industrial Zoning
EAGLE WING (MARICOPA)
Location: Maricopa-Casa Grande Highway & White & Parker Road
Size: ± 428 acres total
Zoning: Planned Area Development (PAD) and General Use Mixed (GU-M)
INLAND PORT ARIZONA (COOLIDGE)
Future home of Procter & Gamble
Location: SR 87 & Houser
Size: ± 2,738 acres total
Zoning: I-2 Heavy Industrial Zoning
INTERSTATE 10/8 BUSINESS PARK (ELOY)
Location: I-10 & Sunshine Boulevard
Size: ± 1,173 acres total
Zoning: Mixed Use – Industrial, Commercial, Hospitality, Distribution, Manufacturing
PINAL COUNTY TECH PARK (CASA GRANDE)
Home to Abbott and Frito-Lay
Location: Maricopa Casa Grande Highway
Size: ± 1,064 acres total
Zoning: I-2 Heavy Industrial Zoning
QUEEN CREEK – ARIZONA STATE LAND
Future home of LG Energy Solution
Location: State Route 24 & Meridian Road
Size: ± 4,100 acres total
Zoning: Urban Employment, Urban + + +
MANUFACTURING
Arizona is home to thousands of manufacturing companies, from small firms to global corporations, such as Intel, Boeing, Raytheon, Amkor, Northrop Grumman and Honeywell.
According to Lightcast 2022 data, Arizona ranks in the top four states in the nation for semiconductor and other electronic component manufacturing employment and in the top five in aerospace vehicles and defense manufacturing.
Pinal County is home to a diverse manufacturing landscape, including companies such as Lucid, Kohler, Frito Lay, Abbott Laboratories, Hexcel, and Cargill Incorporated. In recent years, the County has seen significant announcements in the semi-conductor supply chain that will result in over 600 jobs and nearly $1B in capital investment as well as future investments from Procter & Gamble, LG Energy Solution and Gold Bond.
That is because manufacturers benefit greatly from Pinal County’s strategic location, partnerships between our local governments and the Arizona Commerce Authority, all of which bring together necessary resources.
ARIZONA TOP 10 MANUFACTURING INDUSTRIES
(OUTPUT IN BILLIONS OF 2022 DOLLARS)
$40.0 BILLION
SNAPSHOT OF ARIZONA’S MANUFACTURING SECTOR
STATE MANUFACTURING GROSS PRODUCT (Bureau of Economic Analysis, 2022)
MANUFACTURING FIRMS IN ARIZONA (Lightcast, 2022) 5.5K
191K
$27.3 BILLION
TOTAL ARIZONA EMPLOYMENT IN MANUFACTURING (Lightcast, 2022)
TOTAL VALUE OF ARIZONA EXPORTS (U.S. Census Bureau, Foreign Trade Statistics, 2022)
SEMICONDUCTOR EXPORTS IN THE UNITED STATES (U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2022) TOP FOUR
AUTOMOTIVE MANUFACTURING
Arizona has a long history in the automotive engineering and testing arena. Most major manufacturers have had a presence in Arizona over the years, with Volkswagen and Nissan maintaining facilities in Pinal County.
In recent years, Pinal County has become a hub of electric vehicle manufacturing. Lucid Motors – which produced the 2022 Motor Trend Car of the Year – manufactures in the County. In addition, LG Energy Solution recently announced a significant project in the County that will produce electric vehicle batteries to power the future.
PINAL COUNTY OFFERS AN EXTRAORDINARY WEALTH OF TRAINING AND EDUCATIONAL RESOURCES FOR COMPANIES ACROSS THE ECONOMIC SPECTRUM. AN EXAMPLE IS DRIVE48, A STATE-OF-THE-ART TRAINING FACILITY THAT IS A PARTNERSHIP BETWEEN LUCID, THE STATE OF ARIZONA, PINAL COUNTY, THE CITY OF CASA GRANDE AND CENTRAL ARIZONA COLLEGE. THE FACILITY WITH ITS HIGH-TECH CAPABILITIES, SIMILAR TO WHAT IS USED IN THE LUCID FACTORY, HAS PRODUCED OVER 2,000 EMPLOYEES THAT ARE PREPARED FOR THESE AUTOMOTIVE ASSEMBLY AND ADVANCED MANUFACTURING JOBS.
AEROSPACE & DEFENSE
The aerospace and defense (A&D) sector has a long history and a promising future in Arizona. The state is home to several large military bases, including Davis-Monthan Air Force Base, Fort Huachuca, Luke Air Force Base and the Marine Corps Air Station Yuma. These facilities provide everything from training and testing labs to the largest unmanned aircraft systems training center in the world. The presence of these significant defense assets were a key factor in the State of Arizona receiving $12.3B in Department of Defense contracts in FY2021.
More than 1,200 aerospace and defense firms operate in Arizona, including Boeing, General Dynamics, Honeywell, Raytheon, Lockheed Martin and Northrop Grumman, as well as Hexcel, Ascent Aerospace Services and eCube in Pinal County specifically.
ARIZONA BOASTS A STRONG CONCENTRATION OF SPECIALIZED A&D PROFICIENCIES INCLUDING:
Aerospace Parts Development & Manufacturing
Avionics & Sensor Technology
Command Control Communications Computers & Intelligence (C4I)
Information Systems & Cyber Technologies
Power Systems
Space Technologies
Weapons & Armor Systems
ACCOLADES OF ARIZONA’S AEROSPACE & DEFENSE SECTOR EMPLOYMENT CONCENTRATION IN GUIDED MISSILE AND SPACE VEHICLE MANUFACTURING (Lightcast, 2022)
TOP TWO
1ST AVIATION MAINTENANCE ECONOMIC ACTIVITY (Aeronautical Repair Station Association, 2022)
TOP FIVE
$4.6 BILLION
AEROSPACE & DEFENSE (Lightcast, 2022)
TOP SIX
TOTAL AEROSPACE & DEFENSE EXPORTS (Arizona Commerce Authority, WISERTrade, 2022)
Agriculture is another economic pillar for the Pinal County economy with hundreds of family, corporate and university-based farms supplying commodities such as Pima cotton, hay, sorghum, millet, corn, sheep, cattle and fresh produce.
In addition to these farming operations, Pinal County is also home to several state-of-the-art research facilities, including the University of Arizona-Maricopa campus, dedicated to advancing agriculture technology through the evolution of equipment, crop protection, crop improvement and resource conservation.
MINING
The mining industry is an important contributor to the Arizona economy. According to the Arizona Mining Association, Arizona ranked first among all states in non-fuel mineral resource production in 2021. Arizona copper accounts for 74% of U.S. copper production, with output valued at $6.2 billion in 2021.
Since Pinal County’s inception in 1875, copper mining has remained an economic mainstay, creating thousands of highpaying jobs and billions of dollars in tax revenue to the state, county and local economies. The move towards electric vehicles and other green energy solutions is driving billions of dollars in additional investment and is expected to create thousands of new jobs in the coming years.
Resolution Copper: Projected to be the largest copper mine in North America; will support up to 1,500 jobs
Cactus Mine: High-grade copper deposit; will support up to 300 jobs
Florence Copper: Uses advanced technology to “mine” with minimal environmental footprint; will support up to 500 jobs
Ivanhoe Electric: Santa Cruz Copper Project - acquired approx 6,000 acres for a high-grade, low carbon dioxide footprint underground copper mine creating 3,000 jobs
SOLAR
With more than 300 days of sunshine annually, it is no wonder companies like Apple, Meta, APS, First Solar and Avangrid Renewable consider Arizona an ideal location for this source of renewable energy.
In 2023, the Solar Energy Industries Association (SEIA), in partnership with Wood Mackenzie, reported that in Arizona a total of 368 solar companies employ over 8,000 people. Arizona’s solar generation is currently 9.8% of all electricity, enough to power nearly one million homes.
WATER
Since before it even became a state, Arizona has prioritized smart water use. Evidence suggests the indigenous peoples who once inhabited this area were wise stewards of the available water, and this has continued as agriculture has flourished and urbanization followed.
Agriculture set an example by consistently using best practices to grow crops efficiently. The municipalities have subsequently adopted best practices and can show that per capita water use has fallen since the 1950s.
The State of Arizona recognized the need to develop additional and renewable water supplies, and efforts included working with the Federal Bureau of Reclamation to build dams to catch flood waters and constructing the Central Arizona Project Canal to bring Stateappropriated water from the Colorado River.
These combined efforts have resulted in residential development that can prove a sustainable 100-year supply of water before any homes are built. Commercial and industrial developments are typically not required to prove a supply of water, but most are part of water systems that have been designated as having a sustainable water supply.
As Arizona looks to the future, efforts are underway to develop additional water supplies and strengthen water conservation efforts to maintain the quality of life its citizens enjoy.
HEALTH SERVICES
Pinal County has more than 290 health services companies, including primary and emergency care, specialists, pharmacies, dentistry, hospice care, laboratories, ambulance services, nutrition, research and manufacturing.
In 2022, healthcare employers in Arizona added 9,500 jobs, a growth rate of 3.0%. That is faster than healthcare companies nationwide (2.0%).
BANNER HEALTH + a nonprofit healthcare provider based in Phoenix, is Arizona’s largest private employer with 24 hospitals throughout the state, including several clinics and the following hospitals in Pinal County:
BANNER CASA GRANDE MEDICAL CENTER + a 177-bed general medical and surgical hospital, which also serves as a base station for more than 12 emergency medical service providers in Pinal County.
BANNER GOLDFIELD MEDICAL CENTER + located in Apache Junction, is a 20-bed hospital offering an array of medical care, including emergency services and surgical care.
BANNER IRONWOOD MEDICAL CENTER + located in Queen Creek/San Tan Valley, consists of 47-rooms focused on emergency services, obstetrics, surgery, pediatric and general care. It is anticipated that the site will eventually consist of 500 beds as well as supporting health services in the future.
EXCEPTIONAL COMMUNITY HOSPITAL – MARICOPA +
Exceptional Community Hospital – Maricopa is a 20,000-squarefoot state-of-the-art facility offering specialty internal medicine, a 24-hour emergency department, and advanced imaging.
EXCEPTIONAL COMMUNITY HOSPITAL - ELOY + In 2025, Exceptional Healthcare opened a new hospital in Eloy, expanding access to emergency and inpatient care for southern Pinal County residents.
HONORHEALTH FLORENCE MEDICAL CENTER +
HonorHealth Florence Medical Center – Now operated by HonorHealth, this 36-bed hospital in Florence offers 24/7 emergency care, advanced imaging, surgical and laboratory services in Pinal County.
SUN LIFE HEALTH + a non-profit, community health center, has 12 facilities that provide primary healthcare services throughout the County.
TOURISM
Scenic beauty, excellent weather, majestic sunsets and the natural wonder make tourism the number one industry in Arizona. In 2022, Arizona saw 40.2 million domestic overnight visitors, spending roughly $28.1 billion. As tourism continues to grow, so does Pinal County. The community is already a destination hub for those seeking recreational adventure, annual festivals and an exploration of Arizona’s magnificent landmarks.
BIOSPHERE 2
Originally built to be an artificial, enclosed ecosystem, this three-acre structure remains the largest closed system ever created. Now a worldrenowned center for research, outreach, teaching and lifelong learning about Earth, Biosphere 2 serves as an exciting and educational tourist destination.
BOYCE THOMPSON ARBORETUM
The Boyce Thompson Arboretum offers stunning vistas and excellent walks focused on the unique flora and fauna many times missed in these unique desert locations. In 2024, the Arboretum will have many special events to commemorate its Centennial Celebration.
ARIZONA ZIPLINE ADVENTURES
On the back of Mount Lemmon, the highest point of the Santa Catalina Mountains, visitors can experience the longest zipline in Arizona as well as mountainside musicals, camping and dining events.
CASA GRANDE RUINS
A treasured national monument, the Casa Grande Ruins National Monument features ruins of the Hohokam people who settled and farmed the Arizona region in the 13th century.
HARRAH’S AK-CHIN RESORT
Harrah’s Ak-Chin delivers a first-class resort getaway, offering no shortage of epic thrills. Boasting more than 500 plush rooms and suites, a sparkling resort pool with a sweeping deck, a blissful spa, and a casino floor filled with the industry’s hottest games, your trip to Harrah’s will be one for the books.
SKYDIVE ARIZONA
Located in the heart of the scenic Sonoran Desert is the world’s largest skydive center. Skydive Arizona is known world-wide due to its large fleet of aircraft and an indoor skydiving facility. They offer tandem skydives for the first-timers as well as a variety of services for experienced, licensed skydivers
ROOSTER COGBURN RANCH
A one-of-a-kind ostrich ranch located north of Marana, Arizona and near Picacho Peak, where you get to pet and feed a variety of exotic animals including ostrich, deer, lorikeets, stingrays and so many more!
THE SUPERSTITION MOUNTAINS
Anchoring the northern part of Pinal County, the Superstition Mountains offer scenic trails as well as a museum for visitors to learn more of local lore. It’s also home to Goldfield Ghost Town and the new Peralta Regional Park.
SAN TAN MOUNTAIN CASINO
Gila River’s Santan Mountain Casino is a state-of-the-art gaming destination with 813 slot machines, table games, a luxurious High Limit Room and the largest casino sportsbook – BetMGM - in the state. There is also a casual dining area, a fine dining restaurant and ballroom space with an outdoor garden, plus so much more!
THE WINDMILL WINERY
The Windmill Winery’s blend of rural authenticity and subtle elegance makes it one of the most unique wedding venues in Arizona. Guests can also sample wines, eat at food trucks, and enjoy live music, entertainment, and special group events.
TESTIMONIALS
ATTESA
“Almost 10 years ago, I began working on building a motorsports park in Arizona. Today, after surviving a recession and finding a better partner who shared my vision, Danrick Builders is developing Attesa, a 2,500-acre racing, advanced technology and entertainment community, just west of Casa Grande. We wouldn’t be where we are, both literally and figuratively, if it wasn’t for the foresight, hard work and leadership that could only be found in Pinal County.”
– Patrick Johnson | Danrick Builders
LUCID MOTORS
“Lucid broke ground on its 496-acre Advanced Manufacturing Plant (AMP-1) together with Governor Doug Ducey in Casa Grande in 2019, and completed its first phase of construction in 2020. Lucid chose this site after an extensive search across 13 US states and more than 60 sites. The company selected Arizona based upon numerous positive factors – including business climate, infrastructure, talent, geographic location, and the pre-existing automotive supply chain in the Arizona-Sonora region – but it also offered space for a large footprint and planned expansions, as key areas of the factory were intentionally designed with this in mind.
We recognize and appreciate the leadership, hard work and dedication of Pinal County, including the Drive 48 partnership and land assemblage of 1800+ acres, in support of our company’s manufacturing development and growth to date and looking forward.”
— Daniel Witt | Director of State Public Policy at Lucid Motors
PROCTER & GAMBLE
“Since purchasing land in the Inland Port Arizona (IPAZ) in January 2023, Procter & Gamble has been partnering with Pinal County, along with others throughout the state. The Pinal County team has been great to work with, helping us navigate the local job market and understand more about job seekers in the County. When we start constructing the new site and building our workforce, our partnerships in the County will help us be successful. We feel very welcomed by Pinal County and are happy to be here!”
— Eric Craft | Human Resources Director at Procter & Gamble
SAINT HOLDINGS
“In our minds, there has never been a more exciting time to be in Pinal County. Our company has been an active developer in Pinal County for well over a decade, with such projects as the Central Arizona Commerce Park (home to Tractor Supply and Lucid Motors) and Inland Port AZ (home to the future Procter & Gamble plant) as well as other land holdings for future master plan developments.
There is a will and desire by the County, its communities, local officials and staff to grow and encourage economic development and to do so in a sustainable manner. This will allow for diversity in the array of businesses that will choose to locate here. The unified collaboration between all key players has never been stronger, and it leads to the ability to accommodate growth at a fast pace.
The County can accommodate all types of business with its available land and robust utility and infrastructure network. In addition, the area offers a great lifestyle, attainable housing, excellent education opportunities, an available, skilled workforce and job training programs, which all contribute to Pinal County being a highly sought after area to both live and work.”
– Jackob Andersen | President and CEO at Saint Holdings
