Best Scottsdale Neighborhoods in 2024
Planning a move to Scottsdale in 2024? There are so many amazing communities to choose from, you’ll want to know my recommendations for the best Scottsdale neighborhoods in 2024. I’ll start this post off with a bit of honesty, I truly feel blessed to call Scottsdale my home. The city of Scottsdale offers an incredible diversity of neighborhood experiences and price points, making it an area that is a good fit for a wide range of lifestyles and circumstances. Whether you’re seeking a luxurious desert retreat to escape winter weather, a family-friendly neighborhood near top schools, or an urban lifestyle with amazing shopping and dining, Scottsdale has a neighborhood for you!
Scottsdale residents have experienced a jaw-dropping increase in real estate prices over the past few years, but people relocating from other major metropolitan areas still tend to think of Scottsdale on the whole as “affordable” compared to housing in their market. This is something to consider if you have been waiting for the housing market to “correct” before making the move to sunny Scottsdale!
While the real estate market in Scottsdale is best known for its ultra luxury home selection, the truth is there are plenty of high-quality neighborhoods with affordable homes. This is something I love and appreciate about my desert home. Scottsdale offers tranquil and family-friendly environments to even families on a tight budget. Remember this when shopping for your Scottsdale home…your backyard is very much a part of your living space in this climate! You may not need a large home to feel like you have plenty of space.
While safety, commutability, access to hospitals, access to goods/services, and education options are all a consideration… My picks for the best Scottsdale neighborhoods in 2024 are based on the neighborhoods most frequently in demand!
Without any further background, here is my list of the best Scottsdale neighborhoods in 2024! If you’re currently shopping for real estate in the area, be sure to reach out! I’d love to introduce you to my beloved hometown and help you find the Scottsdale neighborhood perfect for you.
Old Town Scottsdale
Old Town Scottsdale has become most recently known as the #1 location for a bachelorette party. This Scottsdale neighborhood is best known for its city vibe. Living in Old Town Scottsdale gives you access to art galleries, dining, clubs, and world class shopping. Old Town is a unique combination of the wild-west vibe (don’t forget to have your photo taken in front of the adorably hokey “Welcome to Old Town Scottsdale” sign) and sleek modern architecture. The Old Town neighborhood is also in very close proximity to downtown Phoenix and Tempe, making it a top pick for young commuters. If you’re shopping for a home with the action and conveniences of a city, Old Town is the best Scottsdale neighborhood for you in 2024.
Ancala
The Ancala neighborhood in Central Scottsdale is a quiet residential golf community tucked into the foothills of the McDowell Mountains. This gated community features homes with gorgeous views of the mountains, easy access to the Lost Dog trailhead, and easy access to award winning SUSD schools and BASIS Scottsdale.
The centerpiece of the Ancala neighborhood is the Ancala Country Club. The Ancala Country Club offers a range of amenities including fitness, swimming, tennis, dining, member events, and a Perry Dye designed golf course. The sense of security and privacy in Ancala is unparalleled. It’s an ideal neighborhood to either raise a family or retire. Ancala HOA and Ancala Country Club info can both be found online. A selection of Ancala homes for sale 2024 mls listings can be found on my official real estate website. Surf on over there to check it out!
Scottsdale Mountain
The Scottsdale Mountain neighborhood is another peaceful, hilly retreat with homes ranging from 2,000 square feet all the way up! This gated community is also nestled in the rolling McDowell Mountain foothills has boasts gorgeous views. Scottsdale Mountain features easy access to a web of hiking trails throughout the mountains. It also offers community tennis and pickleball courts, as well as a rentable ramada for parties with a spa for community use. This neighborhood is close to the Scottsdale Mayo Clinic campus, Rio Montana public park, and Basis Scottsdale Primary. Scottsdale Mountain is also close to award winning SUSD schools and Basis Scottsdale.
DC Ranch
The upscale community of DC Ranch is an upscale community located west of the McDowell Mountain Regional Park. DC Ranch offers luxury living, golf courses, and family-friendly amenities. Residing in the DC Ranch neighborhood of Scottsdale offers an unparalleled blend of sophistication, community, and desert beauty. This meticulously planned and upscale community provides an exceptional quality of life. With its picturesque tree-lined streets, stunning desert landscapes, and a myriad of parks and recreational amenities, DC Ranch truly captures the essence of Southwestern living. Residents enjoy access to top-rated schools, world-class golf courses, and a vibrant town center that includes boutique shops and fine dining options. The strong sense of community, marked by social events and gatherings, fosters a neighborly spirit that’s hard to find elsewhere. The proximity to the McDowell Sonoran Preserve, with its extensive hiking and biking trails, adds an element of outdoor adventure to daily life. DC Ranch encapsulates the essence of a well-rounded, thriving, and tight-knit community, making it an exceptional place to call home in Scottsdale.
McCormick Ranch
Dive into the expansive McCormick Ranch, known for its beautiful lakes, greenbelts, and a wide range of property types, from condos to spacious single-family homes. This community is characterized by its lush greenbelts, pristine lakes, and meticulously maintained properties, creating an oasis in the desert. Residents have the privilege of enjoying a plethora of amenities, including two championship golf courses, tennis courts, and miles of scenic walking and biking paths. The close-knit community spirit is palpable, with regular events and gatherings that make it easy to forge lasting friendships. McCormick Ranch also offers excellent schools, shopping, and dining options within easy reach. With its central location in the heart of Scottsdale, residents can easily access the city’s cultural, recreational, and entertainment offerings while still enjoying the serene beauty of their own neighborhood. McCormick Ranch embodies the essence of the Arizona lifestyle, making it a truly exceptional place to call home.
Desert Mountain
Desert Mountain is a renowned golf community with epic desert views and a selection of custom-built luxury homes. This neighborhood is all about opulence, exclusivity, and peace. The main focus of this community is the Desert Mountain Golf Club, which features a huge collection of luxurious golf courses and multiple clubhouses. This large community boasts breathtaking views of the valley and its rugged natural features. Beyond golf, residents of this community enjoy hiking and equestrian trails, an outstanding spa, and a vibrant social scene provide a balanced and rich life experience. This sanctuary in the desert ensures that its residents have everything they need without ever leaving the neighborhood. With its 24/7 security and sense of exclusivity, Desert Mountain offers a rarefied desert living experience that is second to none. Something most will fail to mention when talking about Desert Mountain, is that it’s also a great choice if you love boating and water sports. It’s a quick drive to Lake Bartlett, but a bit of a longer haul to get to 17 or 101. It’s most appealing to retirees as commute times are generally longer from this location.
Gainey Ranch
Gainey Ranch is an exclusive gated community with lush landscapes, golf courses, and upscale amenities. Gainey Ranch has a resort feel, so if you fell in love with Scottsdale while vacationing Gainey Ranch may be a perfect fit for you! This meticulously planned neighborhood is renowned for its well-manicured golf courses, open desert spaces, and outdoor activities. Residents of Gainey Ranch enjoy the benefits of an exclusive country club, easy access to top-rated schools, and a wealth of dining and shopping options nearby. Gainey Ranch is an oasis of luxury in the heart of Scottsdale, offering a balanced and enriching lifestyle that makes it a fantastic place to call home.
McDowell Mountain Ranch
Family-friendly McDowell Mountain Ranch is known for its hiking trails, top-rated schools, and a mix of single-family homes and condos. Living in McDowell Mountain Ranch is great for just about anyone, but I do think of it as a “family friendly” environment. If you’re a waterslide aficionado, you’ll love the proximity to the McDowell Mountain Ranch Aquatic Center, where the kids can keep cool all summer in the lazy river and sliding with friends! Nestled against the picturesque McDowell Mountains, this family-friendly neighborhood offers an abundance of outdoor recreational opportunities, including hiking and biking trails that wind through the stunning desert landscape. The community is well-served with top-rated schools, parks, and a vibrant town center featuring restaurants, shops, and cultural events. Residents can take advantage of the multiple sports facilities and the McDowell Mountain Golf Club. The strong community spirit, marked by regular neighborhood events, ensures a friendly and welcoming atmosphere. McDowell Mountain Ranch perfectly balances access to the breathtaking Arizona wilderness with the comforts of suburban life, making it a truly exceptional place to call home in Scottsdale.
Silverleaf
If you’re in search of a neighborhood with record-breaking home prices and a top-tier luxury lifestyle, you’re looking for a neighborhood like Silverleaf. This upscale Scottsdale community features custom estates, private clubhouses, and breathtaking mountain views. Living in Silverleaf is the ultimate in exclusive living. This highly sought-after community within DC Ranch offers an unparalleled combination of pristine natural beauty and high-end amenities. Nestled against the rugged McDowell Mountains, Silverleaf boasts breathtaking desert views and impeccably landscaped streets, creating a private oasis in the heart of the Sonoran Desert. Residents enjoy access to a Tom Weiskopf-designed golf course, a luxurious spa, and a private country club offering fine dining and social events. The security and privacy within Silverleaf are second to none, attracting those who seek the utmost in tranquility and prestige. Silverleaf achieves all of this while being centrally located, and in close proximity to top-notch schools, shopping, and dining.
Kierland
Another favorite of vacationers, Kierland offers convenient shopping, dining, and entertainment options, with a range of upscale condos and homes. Living in the Kierland neighborhood offers a touch of that urban action, with suburban living. Residents of this neighborhood enjoy the upscale shopping, dining, and entertainment options at the Kierland Commons and Scottsdale Quarter, all within walking distance. The area is also home to excellent schools, golf courses, and parks, making it a family-friendly destination. Living in Kierland is a delightful blend of resort-style living with the convenience of a city. What a fantastic place to call home in Scottsdale!
Troon
Troon is a well-known neighborhood in North Scottsdale and is best known for being a paradise for both golfers and hiking enthusiasts. Troon is surrounded by the most picturesque red, rocky landscape. It’s well-known for the Troon North Golf Club, which is highly regarded in the golfing community. Troon is home to luxury homes and gated communities, making it desirable seeking an upscale lifestyle with a rugged mountain setting. Homes in Troon are often custom built on large lots.
I hope you’re found this article informative and helpful! When you’re ready to start shopping for a home in your favorite Scottsdale neighborhood, reach out using the contact info above! Looking to list your Scottsdale home? Put my Fortune 100 background and digital media prowess to work for your transaction! I look forward to working with you.