Located in the southeast of Phoenix, the town is within the Phoenix metropolitan area. Gilbert has once been known as the “Hay Shipping Capital of the World.” Gilbert is one of the cities that are in the general area, which has been referred to and known as the East Valley. It is a community that has vast agricultural roots, and that shows up in its local cuisine and creations that are uniquely handcrafted. The town doesn’t have any huge shopping malls and the local stores and businesses which have the basic needs where the residents can spend their money around town. The closest metro area and where the more prominent malls and establishments found will be in Mesa. Gilbert’s housing prices have gone up as it goes along with its reputation. There are still older and large custom houses that have big front lawns; however, most of the homes are more modern. There are subdivisions like in many parts of the Valley; however, one will still see agricultural areas in the eastern part of Gilbert.