The 5 Best Neighborhoods to Live in Scottsdale
Scottsdale delivers sunshine, incredible dining, and beautiful desert scenery. People love the lifestyle here. The city blends outdoor recreation with a lively arts scene and a growing job market. Each neighborhood brings something a little different, which makes choosing the right spot a fun part of planning your move.
If you want a broader look at nearby areas, you can also explore the guide on the best neighborhoods to live in Phoenix. Many people compare both cities before choosing where to settle. Once you have that perspective, Scottsdale becomes even easier to navigate.
Here are five neighborhoods that are desirable to most people looking to make the move to Scottsdale.
Old Town Scottsdale
Old Town Scottsdale sits at the center of the action. This area feels lively from morning to night. Restaurants, art galleries, shopping districts, and entertainment venues all sit within a short walk of each other. The Scottsdale Waterfront and Fashion Square Mall attract steady crowds. Evenings stay busy with live music, events, and bustling restaurants.
Old Town sits only a few minutes from the Loop 101 which makes commuting around the valley simple. The area also sits about 12 miles from downtown Phoenix which usually means a 20 to 25 minute drive. Housing options include apartments, condos, townhomes, and luxury mid rise buildings. Many rentals in newer buildings range between $2,200 and $3,500 per month depending on size and amenities
Home prices vary widely because Old Town includes both older properties and newly built luxury residences. Many condos sell between $450,000 and $900,000 with newer units often reaching well above $1,000,000.
McCormick Ranch
McCormick Ranch offers a calm, residential environment with beautiful landscaping and plenty of outdoor space. Mature trees shade wide paths. Two large lakes create a scenic backdrop for morning walks. The McCormick Ranch Golf Club sits nearby along with several parks and greenbelts.
The neighborhood sits about 5 miles from Old Town Scottsdale which usually means a 10 to 12 minute drive. Residents enjoy quick access to restaurants, grocery stores, and fitness centers without dealing with the constant crowds of the downtown area.
Home prices in McCormick Ranch generally range from $700,000 to $1,400,000 depending on size, upgrades, and location within the community.
Condos and townhomes are available as well and often range from $350,000 to $600,000. Rentals exist throughout the neighborhood and many include scenic views or access to nearby trails.
North Scottsdale
North Scottsdale feels open, upscale, and full of natural desert beauty. It stretches across a large portion of the city which gives residents a lot of choice. Many homes include views of McDowell Mountain or desert preserves. Restaurants and shopping districts like Scottsdale Quarter and Kierland Commons sit nearby and attract steady crowds.
North Scottsdale sits farther from downtown Phoenix at about 20 to 25 miles which usually means a 30 to 40 minute drive depending on traffic. Residents appreciate the peaceful atmosphere and the abundance of golf courses, hiking trails, and community parks.
Home prices vary across the region but many single family homes range between $850,000 and $2,000,000 with luxury properties reaching much higher..
Condos and townhomes also appear throughout the area with many starting near $500,000. People who want space, scenery, and a polished environment often gravitate to this part of the city.
South Scottsdale
South Scottsdale provides a convenient location with a more relaxed feel than Old Town. Many restaurants and coffee shops sit near the Scottsdale Tempe border. Residents enjoy quick access to Arizona State University, Papago Park, and Tempe Town Lake. This part of the city also sits close to the Phoenix Zoo and Desert Botanical Garden.
South Scottsdale sits about 3 miles from Old Town and about 12 miles from downtown Phoenix which keeps commutes manageable. Many people choose the area for its blend of affordability and convenience. Home prices often range from $500,000 to $900,000 depending on size and renovation level.
Condos are common and often fall between $300,000 and $500,000. The rental market offers a wide mix of apartments with many ranging from $1,700 to $2,600 depending on location and amenities.
Gainey Ranch
Gainey Ranch brings a luxurious and peaceful atmosphere with gated communities, lush landscaping, and resort style amenities. Golf courses, tennis facilities, and well cared for pathways give the neighborhood a refined feel. The location sits just northeast of McCormick
Ranch which gives residents quick access to restaurants, grocery stores, and everyday essentials.
Gainey Ranch sits about 6 miles from Old Town which usually means a 12 to 15 minute drive. Kierland Commons and Scottsdale Quarter sit close by as well and provide even more options for dining and shopping.
Home prices in Gainey Ranch typically range from $900,000 to more than $2,000,000 depending on size, location, and community features.
Condos and townhomes are available and frequently range from $500,000 to $900,000.
Living in Scottsdale
Scottsdale offers an impressive mix of neighborhoods that each bring something special. Old Town feels lively. McCormick Ranch feels peaceful. North Scottsdale feels scenic. South Scottsdale feels convenient. Gainey Ranch feels refined. Your ideal fit depends on your pace, your priorities, and the lifestyle you want once you settle into the area.
Moves always feel easier when you have a safe and convenient place to store your belongings. Trusted Self Storage in Scottsdale provides a simple way to keep your items protected while you relocate, renovate, or organize your living space. The facility offers multiple storage sizes, easy access, and a smooth rental experience for both short and long term needs.
Scottsdale continues to draw new residents with its scenery, food, recreation, and welcoming atmosphere, though be prepared for a bump in cost of living compared to other Phoenix areas.