Housing
Overview
Scottsdale's real estate market is also a wise investment. Property values have consistently appreciated over the years, making it a savvy choice for those looking to grow their wealth. Scottsdale is an amazing place for anyone to own real estate as a primary residence, as a second home, or as an investment property. Scottsdale real estate has been trending up for the last several years and is likely to continue to do so as more and more people are attracted to the warm client, beautiful scenery, amazing shopping, and upbeat nightlife.
North Scottsdale and Old Town Scottsdale have different attractions that may appeal to different buyers. North Scottsdale is more known for its stunning views and world class golf courses. Old Town Scottsdale has amazing shopping, delicious restaurants, and a vibrant nightlife. The growth of the Entertainment District in Old Town Scottsdale has added dramatically to the nightlife and has happened in line with the rapid growth of Old Town Scottsdale real estate.
Scottsdale real estate is made up of a great mix of single family homes, condos, townhouses, and patio homes. Many of the homes are within gated communities. This is true throughout Scottsdale from Old Town to McDowell Mountain.
The cost of living in Scottsdale, AZ is 7% higher than the state average and 13% higher than the national average. Scottsdale, AZ housing is 42% more expensive than the U.S average, while utilities are about 8% less pricey.
As a result of health and wealth reputation, as well as being an epicenter for golf enthusiasts, home values have skyrocketed, recently hitting an average sale price of $1.7 million and placing Scottsdale as the second-most expensive city in Arizona behind nearby Paradise Valley.
Housing styles include: Contemporary, Mid-Century Modern, Tuscan, Spanish Colonial, Ranch-Style, Bungalows, Southwestern, Mediterranean, and more.
Discover the community
Overview
Scottsdale is a desert city in Arizona east of state capital Phoenix. It's known for its spa resorts and golf courses, including TPC Scottsdale. Farther north, trails wind through McDowell Sonoran Preserve, a desertscape of hills, rock formations and cacti. Nearby is Taliesin West, architect Frank Lloyd Wright's former home and studio. Downtown's Old Town Scottsdale has 1920s buildings and 19th-century olive trees.
Scottsdale, Arizona is located in the beautiful Sonoran Desert at the foot of the scenic McDowell Mountains. It is bordered by Phoenix to the West, the Tonto National Forrest to the North, the McDowell Mountains to the East, and the Salt River to the South.
Scottsdale is annually rated among the nation's most desirable communities to live in, visit and do business in. Old Town Scottsdale is considered the finest urban center in Arizona. It is home to more than 90 restaurants, 320 retail shops and more than 80 art galleries.
Scottsdale's McDowell Sonoran Preserve, in the city's northern reaches, is the largest urban wilderness area in the United States and features more than 60 miles of trails through diverse and scenic desert terrain.
Scottsdale Communities
Why are people moving to Scottsdale, AZ, specifically? When making the move to a new city, finding a place that offers a variety of great neighborhoods is key. When it comes to Scottsdale, there's a neighborhood in store for just about every lifestyle - and that makes this city so desirable, no matter your walk of life! Here are a few of the standout neighborhoods.
Old Town Scottsdale
Old Town Scottsdale has been growing over the years, and it's a great place to call home if you're looking to live in the city center. Old Town is also a good choice if you want a place that's full of character and offers great dining, shopping, and nightlife experiences ideal for young professionals!
Gainey Ranch
Gainey Ranch is a planned community ideal for families, and it features 19 different gated neighborhoods and over 560 acres of land. There are single-family houses, townhouses, and large homes with both commercial areas and office buildings. The Gainey Ranch community also features three nine-hole golf courses and a network of trails that are ideal for walking, cycling, and hiking.
McCormick Ranch
The McCormick Ranch community started as a horse ranch that raised Arabian horses. Over the years, it has evolved into a beautiful suburban community that features various lakes and mountains views. Its 67 subdivisions house approximately 27,000 people, and the community is geared toward both young families and retirees.
Lifestyle
There are many reasons why Scottsdale is consistently ranked one of the best cities to live in America, including the beautiful year-round warm weather, plentiful job opportunities, fun attractions, and good walkability. In fact, it's ranked as Niche's 25th best city to live in America, and it holds the same ranking for the healthiest city.
Scottsdale is ranked as Niche's #1 best city to retire in America, it has an A- grade for families and an A-grade school district, not to mention it's an overall beautiful place to live. Basically, whether you're raising a family, retiring, or somewhere in between, Scottsdale has something to offer you.
Scottsdale Sports
The city of Phoenix (which is only about 20 minutes away from Scottsdale), is home to several professional sports teams. Some of these include the Arizona Diamondbacks, the Phoenix Suns, the Arizona Coyotes, and the Arizona Cardinals.
The San Francisco Giants, the Colorado Rockies, and the Arizona Diamondbacks all train in the city of Scottsdale during the spring training season. The Waste Management Phoenix Open is also one of the most popular events on the PGA Tour, held in Scottsdale each year.
Job Outlook in Scottsdale
People looking for work in the city of Scottsdale can find numerous positions within the tourism, health care, and aviation industries, in particular. GoDaddy, Axon, and Blue Yonder are among some of the city's most high-paying companies.
Scottsdale Crime Rate
Compared to the rest of Arizona, Scottsdale is a safe city to settle down in for both yourself and your family. You have a 1 in 204 chance of being a victim of violent crime in the state of Arizona, but your chances are a bit less likely if you're living in Scottsdale at 1 in 461. Both of these comparisons are per 1,000 residents.
Scottsdale Housing Market
One of the biggest drawbacks to living in Scottsdale is the more expensive cost of living, which largely comes from the city's pricey housing market. The average home value in Scottsdale is around $790,200.
A typical home in the city of Scottsdale is characterized by its stucco exterior, which is complemented by tile roofs and various landscaping features, like desert vegetation and cacti. You can find all sorts of styles, from Tuscan to Spanish Colonial.
Education
The Scottsdale Unified School District is ranked #4 on Niche's list for "Best School Districts in Arizona" and #2 on the list for "Best School Districts in the Phoenix Area." Whether you're looking for a charter school, good athletics programs, or great teachers, Scottsdale can cater to you and your family.
Scottsdale is home to some of the best schools in the entire country. Take a look at some of the top-ranked schools to consider:
- BASIS Scottsdale - Public Charter 5-12 School
- Great Hearts Academies - Scottsdale Prep - Public Charter 6-12 School
Archway Classical Academy - Scottsdale - Public Charter K-5 School
There are at least 40 colleges that are in close proximity to Scottsdale, including everything from private schools to public schools to community colleges with 2-year degrees. Some of these schools include:
Activities/Attractions
High-End Cuisine in Scottsdale
The city of Scottsdale is known for its great dining, and there are plenty of places to choose from. Some of the most popular establishments include steakhouses, brunch spots, and more, and they're popular among both residents and tourists who come and visit the city. Here are some of the most popular favorites to keep on your radar:
Arcadia Farms Cafe
The Arcadia Farms Cafe is a family-owned restaurant that serves a variety of delicious food items at a great price. Originally a carryout bakery, this establishment has since evolved into a full-service restaurant that offers a variety of breakfast and lunch dishes. Some of the popular items offered include the breakfast quesadilla, smoked salmon plate, and fresh berry crepes.
Cowboy Ciao
For over two decades Cowboy Ciao has been a staple in Scottsdale's local restaurant scene. The menu features a variety of American dishes with a Tex-Mex fusion. Whether you're in the mood for fried chicken or the "Quesadilla Del Ciao" served with oaxaca cheese, you can find it here.
The Greene House
If you're looking for a great open-air restaurant, The Greene House is a must-visit. This establishment has a wide variety of options, such as burgers, chicken sandwiches, and flatbreads. It's known for its lavish dining atmosphere and one the nicest outdoor dining spaces in the city!
Exciting Activities in Scottsdale
No matter your lifestyle or personal interests, the activities and sights to explore around Scottsdale never get old. Here are some of the most fun things to do in Scottsdale:
McDowell Sonoran Preserve
As one of the top things to do in Scottsdale, visiting this area's permanent protected desert habitat provides visitors and locals with the opportunity to appreciate the Southwestern landscape's unmistakable beauty. There are various hiking trails that are suitable for all abilities, and the Gateway Loop is a great choice for experienced hikers. If you are just starting out, though, Brown's Ranch might be a good choice.
Scottsdale Center for the Performing Arts
If you're looking to see the best of the best in the performing arts and culture space in Arizona, then the Scottsdale Center for the Performing Arts is a great place to visit. This facility is regarded as one of the best in the western United States and features dance performances, along with theater, comedy, and, of course, musical acts.
Scottsdale Fashion Square
One of the most popular pastimes of luxury shoppers is to visit the Fashion Square in Scottsdale (the largest shopping mall in Arizona). This mall features a variety of high-end brands, such as Louis Vuitton, Nordstrom, and Neiman Marcus.
Scottsdale's Museum of the West
Scottsdale's Museum of the West in Old Town Scottsdale is a must-visit for anyone who is interested in learning more about the history of the West. This 43,000-square-foot gallery features paintings and artifacts that showcase the region's cultural and historical significance. It frequently exhibits different works of art - ranging from Hopi pottery to railroad history.
