The Hohokam were the first known inhabitants of what is now El Mirage. Renowned for their ingenuity, the Hohokam built an extensive irrigation system using only stone tools and organized labor, earning them the title “Canal Builders.”

In the early 1930s, migrant farm workers began settling in El Mirage along the west bank of the Agua Fria River. Mexican migrant workers played a crucial role in constructing the canals and harvesting the area’s first crops.

El Mirage was incorporated in 1951. The city has evolved from its rural, agricultural roots into a suburban community with many diverse business opportunities.

The City of El Mirage is governed by an elected council/manager form of government. The City Council consists of a directly-elected mayor and six council members.

Its strategic location, affordable real estate, strong industrial growth potential, and supportive business environment position El Mirage as an attractive destination within Metro Phoenix.

Manufacturing and Industrial Growth: El Mirage has identified manufacturing and industrial development as key growth sectors. The city has designated industrial zones and offers incentives to attract manufacturers and distribution centers.

Proximity to Luke Air Force Base: Located just west of El Mirage, the base generates economic activity for the surrounding area, particularly in defense-related industries, aviation, and logistics. Businesses providing services to the base and its personnel, such as housing, retail, and supply chain services, benefit from the steady demand generated by military operations.

Logistics and Warehousing: El Mirage’s location near key highways, coupled with its affordable land, positions it as an ideal location for logistics and warehousing businesses. The availability of space for large distribution centers and warehouses makes it attractive to companies involved in shipping, e-commerce, and supply chain management.

US Route 60 (Grand Avenue): Primary transportation route serving El Mirage. It runs diagonally from the City of Phoenix through Glendale, El Mirage, and continues northwest into Surprise.

Loop 101 (Agua Fria Freeway): Major freeway running north-south just east of El Mirage, providing easy access to other parts of Metro Phoenix.

State Route 303 (Loop 303): Runs to the west of El Mirage and provides a vital link between West Valley cities and the Interstates, I-10 and I-17.

Northern Parkway: Transportation route that borders El Mirage on the south, designed to improve east-west traffic flow across the West Valley. It connects Loop 303 with U.S. Route 60 and Loop 101. This parkway is part of ongoing regional efforts to improve access to major employment centers, reducing congestion and improving travel times.