Best Places to Live in Scottsdale

Are you wondering where the best places to live in Scottsdale are? Here are the top ten neighborhoods in Scottsdale, AZ, if you are moving to the area!

If you are moving to Scottsdale, AZ, and want to know where you should live, this guide is for you. While the city may be known as "The World's Finest Golf Destination" due to its many luxury resorts and award-winning courses, Scottsdale is also home to unique neighborhoods that prioritize safety and family-friendly living.

Located just east of the state capital of Phoenix, this beautiful desert city is one of the country's most affordable and luxurious cities. It is recognized as a hidden gem for affluent families and established professionals who are looking for a great place to live in the southwest.

Considered to be one of the best places to live in Arizona, if you are moving to Arizona, then Scottsdale is a great place to call home due to the abundance of sought-after neighborhoods. With many safe suburban areas, low crime rates, and some of the best schools in Arizona, finding the home of your dreams in Scottsdale is easy with the help of our Scottsdale Real Estate Specialists. 

So whether you are on the hunt for new construction single-family homes in Scottsdale, townhomes for sale in Scottsdale, ranch homes for sale in Scottsdale, or luxury homes for sale in Scottsdale, there is a property type and home style available that will fit your lifestyle.

Keep reading to learn more about where you should live in Scottsdale, Arizona!

These are the best places to live in Scottsdale!

McCormick Ranch

The affluent, residential community of McCormick Ranch is a charming area that resembles a village due to its abundance of shopping and dining options and its tight-knit feel.

Now considered a mature community of more than 3,100 acres and made up of more than 8,900 single-family homes, apartments, and condos, McCormick Ranch is home to nearly 27,000 residents, making it one of the largest planned communities in all of Arizona.

Located in north-central Scottsdale, this community is within minutes of some of the city's most popular amenities and attractions, which is one of the main reasons why McCormick Ranch is a sought-after place to live.

Local Favorites:

• Mountain View Park: This recreational park is excellent for the whole family and features multiple sports fields, a playground, and a community center
• Scottsdale Bike Path: One of the best places to get outside and ride your bike since it is easy to access and surrounded by beautiful scenery
• Marguerite Lake: Located near Paradise Valley, this lake is a great place to fish for Channel Catfish, Largemouth Bass, and Black Crappie

Old Town Scottsdale

The historic community of Old Town Scottsdale may be known for its rich cowboy history. Still, this neighborhood has since become one of the city's most trendy and hip destinations due to its abundance of amenities and things to do.

Recognized as one of the most vibrant and lively urban downtown centers in the American southwest, Old Town Scottsdale is home to many events and family-fun activities that all ages will enjoy.

From world-class museums to contemporary public art installations, Old Town Scottsdale has found a way to make what was once old new again.

Located within nine walkable neighborhoods in downtown Scottsdale, this community is perfect for young professionals on the go or single adults who want endless entertainment options.

Local Favorites:

• Scottsdale Fashion Square: Recognized as one of the top shopping centers in Scottsdale, there are more than 240 specialty retailers and brand-name stores located here
• Scottsdale Museum of Contemporary Art: Featuring world-class exhibitions, educational programming, and festivals that are all dedicated to modern works of art, design, and architecture
• Western Spirit: Scottsdale's Museum of the West: Located on the former site of the Loloma Transit Station, this two-story historical museum is dedicated to the art, culture, and history of the American West, Western Canada, and Mexico

Gainey Ranch

The residential neighborhood of Gainey Ranch is centered on the luxurious Gainey Ranch Golf Club, which offers pristine views of the McDowell Mountains.

Known to be an upscale and affluent community, many high-end boutiques and world-class restaurants are located nearby at the Shops of Gainey Village.

Surrounded by palm trees and decorated with gorgeous fountains, this 640-acre resort-style community sits on what was once an Arabian horse ranch that Daniel C. Gainey owned.

Considered to be a relatively safe area to live in, with 5% fewer crimes reported than in the general Scottsdale area, it is no wonder that Gainey Ranch is thought to be one of the best places to live in Scottsdale.

Local Favorites:

• Gainey Ranch Golf Club: This private golf course is located in the heart of the Sonoran Desert and is a unique 27-hole course that offers challenges for players of all levels, no matter if you are brand new to the sport or are an avid golfer
• OdySea Aquarium: Located in the Salt River Pima-Maricopa Indian Community, this aquarium is known as the largest aquarium in the southwest United States and holds more than 2 million gallons of water
• Rotary Park: Featuring paved walking paths, open green space, a playground, and picnic shelters

Grayhawk

The vibrant master-planned community of Grayhawk is located North of Loop 101 Freeway in North Scottsdale and is found on a total of 1,615 acres.

Centered around the Grayhawk Golf Club, this community is home to two neighborhoods: The Retreat and The Park, which offer separate amenities.

Offering its residents a great selection of single-family custom homes, detached homes, condos, townhomes, and villas, there is a little bit of everything for everyone.

Local Favorites:

• Grayhawk Golf Club: This public golf club features two 18-hole world-class championship golf courses and an excellent restaurant
• Thompson Peak Park: Great for the whole family, this 29-acre public park is home to a shaded playground, lighted courts, fields, and public restroom facilities
• Taliesin West: Now the headquarters of the Frank Lloyd Wright Foundation and recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site and National Historic Landmark that is open for tours

DC Ranch

Situated in North Scottsdale, the neighborhood of DC Ranch is often referred to as a vibrant and thriving community near popular dining, shopping, and entertainment options.

Centered around The Country Club at DC Ranch, which is a premier private golf and country club, there is no better way to enjoy the day with friends and family than by playing a round of golf on the club's classic course that has been redesigned by architects Tom Lehman and John Fought.

Local Favorites:

• Musical Instrument Museum: First opened in 2010, there are over 15,000 different musical instruments on display from up to 200 countries and territories around the world
• Gateway Trailhead - McDowell Sonoran Preserve: This nature preserve is a permanently protected and sustainable desert in Scottsdale that covers up to 30,500 acres which makes it the largest urban park in the country
• Butterfly Wonderland: Offering visitors a one-of-a-kind interactive experience in a rainforest habitat that houses thousands of butterflies

Scottsdale Ranch

Scottsdale Ranch is a master-planned residential community that was first developed in 1984 by Markland Properties, Inc. and has since become one of the most popular and progressive communities in the area.

Offering a variety of upscale living options and several resort-style amenities, there are a total of 3,938 properties in Scottsdale Ranch.

Located on a lake, Scottsdale Ranch allows its residents to partake in lake activities, including kayaking, boating, paddle boating, canoeing, and fishing.

Local Favorites:

• Arizona Boardwalk: This popular entertainment destination is home to an aquarium, a dinosaur exhibit, bumper boats, an ice bar, gift shops, and plenty of dining options
• McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park: This 30-acre park in the heart of Scottsdale features a 10,000-square-foot model railroad display, jungle gyms, and miniature train rides
• Carlson Creek Vineyard, Scottsdale Tasting Room: Sample great wine with great people at this top-of-the-line tasting room

North Scottsdale

Most notable for its world-class spas, wine bars, steakhouses, and luxury boutiques, the community of North Scottsdale is a prosperous place to live for professionals, families, and retirees alike.

Located North of Old Town Scottsdale and south of Cave Creek and Carefree, North Scottsdale is an excellent area to live in and is perfect for individuals who taste the finer things.

Local Favorites:

• Pinnacle Peak Park: For hikers and rock climbing enthusiasts, this trail allows visitors to adventure to the top of Pinnacle Peak with great views and fantastic desert terrain
• REI Co-op Adventure Center: Offering guided adventures for everyone, including guided mountain biking, kayaking, rafting, hiking, and SUP tours
• O.H.S.O Brewery and Distillery: Enjoy delicious food and drinks at this lively brewery that also features a dog-friendly patio

South Scottsdale

Found between the high-end neighborhood of North Scottsdale and the laid-back college town of Tempe, Arizona, South Scottsdale is ideal for young adults just starting since it is full of job opportunities, great nightlife, fantastic dining options, and plenty of shopping.

With a low crime rate and multiple safe suburban areas to call home, South Scottsdale is the place to be.

Local Favorites:

• Fate Brewing Company Scottsdale: Serving in-house brewed craft beer and American favorites served in a warehouse-style atmosphere
• Fellow Osteria and Pizzeria: Offering pizza, pasta, and other classic Italian favorites
• DeFalco's Italian Deli and Grocery: This family-run deli and market sells Italian ingredients and delicious food

Central Scottsdale

Featuring upscale single-family homes, apartments, condos, and townhomes for sale, Central Scottsdale has found a way to combine some of the oldest and newest homes in the area with some of the best outdoor entertainment and high-end shopping to create a thriving community.

Providing its residents with spread-out design and a peaceful lifestyle, Central Scottsdale is great for you and your family, whether you are buying your first home, buying a vacation home, or choosing to upsize or downsize.

Local Favorites:

• Dos Families Local Mexican: Dine on modern Mexican and Tex-Mex dishes in a warm and inviting atmosphere
• Ajo Al's: Located in Agua Caliente, this Mexican restaurant is known for its festive dishes and folk art that decorates the walls
• 92 Drinks and Eats (92nd Street Cafe and Bar): This neighborhood hangout and sports bar serves tasty pub grub and features daily happy hour specials

Desert Mountain

Offering its residents sunshine all year round and some of the best home features you can find on the market, including floor heating and fireplaces, choosing to live in the community of Desert Mountain in Scottsdale is a dream come true.

Centered around the neighborhood members-only private golf club, residents are encouraged to embrace the outdoors and live an active lifestyle in the Sonoran Desert.

Local Favorites:

• Spotted Donkey and Cantina: One of the best places in town to grab elevated Mexican fare and enjoy more than 40 varieties of tequila
• Twist Bistro and Gallery: This French restaurant serves French classics with a modern twist
• Desert Mountain Golf Club: Offering members excellent rounds of golf all year round in the Sonoran Desert

Best Places to Live in Scottsdale, AZ - Final Thoughts

Since there is no right or wrong choice when finding a great place to live in Scottsdale, our team here at UpHomes is here to help you throughout your neighborhood selection and the home-buying process.

Not only are we dedicated to helping you find homes for sale in Scottsdale, but our website features a selection of other area guides and information about moving to Phoenix, moving to Sedona, moving to Flagstaff, moving to Tempe, moving to Tuscon, moving to Chandler, and moving to Gilbert. 

Contact us today if you are interested in buying a home and are ready to kick-start your home search. We are always happy to help and are here to answer any questions!