Goodyear was established in 1917 with the purchase of 16,000 acres of land by the Goodyear Tire and Rubber Company to cultivate cotton for vehicle tire cords.

In 1941, as the United States was on the verge of entering World War II, the US Department of Defense initiated the construction of an aircraft manufacturing facility on land leased from the Southwest Cotton Company. This facility was operated by Goodyear Aircraft, a subsidiary of the Goodyear Tire & Rubber Company. Around the same time, developer Del Webb began building single-family homes on a 40-acre plot just north of Western Avenue and east of Litchfield Road.

The Southwest Cotton Company also developed a business district along the north side of Western Avenue. This district featured Bowman’s Drug and Abraham’s Market, both facing Western Avenue, while a barbershop and a beauty salon were located on the side facing Litchfield Road. By May 1944, the local residents and property owners selected “Goodyear” as the community’s official name.

The Goodyear Post Office opened its doors on November 22, 1944, and the town of Goodyear was officially incorporated on November 19, 1946. At that time, the town consisted of 151 homes, 250 apartments, and a modest commercial area, including a grocery store, drugstore, barbershop, beauty salon, and gas station. Nearly four decades later, in 1985, Goodyear transitioned from a town to an official city.

Goodyear operates under a Council-Manager system of government, as outlined in its city charter. The governing body consists of a mayor and six councilmembers, all elected at large in non-partisan elections. Both the mayor and councilmembers serve four-year terms. The mayor is limited to two terms, while councilmembers can serve up to three terms. To maintain continuity in leadership, councilmembers’ terms are staggered.

A well-educated and skilled workforce, combined with affordable housing in a variety of unique neighborhoods, along with low operational costs, creates an ideal environment for businesses to prosper. The City of Goodyear offers some interesting incentives to businesses looking to locate (or relocate) in Goodyear, including reduced property taxes and other tax benefits from the city’s Foreign Trade Zones, Military Reuse Zone, and designated redevelopment areas.

Logistics and Distribution: The city has attracted major players in the logistics industry, including Amazon, UPS, and Walmart, who have established large fulfillment centers in Goodyear.

Aerospace and Aviation: The city’s proximity to Phoenix and nearby aerospace clusters has made it a favorable location for aerospace companies focused on manufacturing, maintenance, and parts distribution. Phoenix-Goodyear Airport (GYR) is a general aviation airport that supports private, corporate, and air cargo traffic, making it an attractive location for aviation and aerospace companies.

Advanced Manufacturing: Goodyear has a favorable regulatory environment, with city policies and incentives aimed at attracting manufacturing companies. The city’s industrial parks cater to businesses requiring large-scale facilities and specialized manufacturing spaces.

Sports and Recreation: The city’s proximity to the Estrella Mountains makes it a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts, supporting local businesses related to sports, recreation, and tourism. Goodyear Ballpark helps boost the local economy in February and March with MLB Cactus League Spring Training games.

Interstate 10 (I-10): Primary east-west freeway in Goodyear, running directly through the city and providing a crucial link to Phoenix to the east and Surprise to the west.

Loop 303: Major north-south freeway located along Goodyear’s western boundary. It connects Goodyear with other West Valley cities like Surprise and Peoria.

Van Buren Street: East-west arterial road that runs parallel to I-10 and serves as a local alternative for traffic within Goodyear and neighboring cities.

Phoenix Goodyear Airport (GYR): Plays a significant role in local transportation, offering general aviation services, business travel, and facilities for flight training and aircraft maintenance.