Less than 15 miles from Downtown Phoenix, you’ll find the urban village of Scottsdale, tucked in the picturesque McDowell Mountain foothills. Nearly 250,000 residents call Scottsdale home across more than 60 neighborhoods — from family-oriented Grayhawk and affluent Silverleaf to lively Old Town and nature-inspired McDowell Mountain Ranch. But out of all these Scottsdale neighborhoods, which is the best choice for you?
Moving out of state is a major life transition, and there’s a lot to consider in terms of where to settle. For instance, are you in the market for a suburban community with top-notch schools and upscale amenities? Or would you prefer an urban district with booming career opportunities and access to walkable entertainment? No matter which vibe you’re looking for, the best neighborhoods in Scottsdale offer something for everyone.
How We Chose the Best Neighborhoods in Scottsdale
The Grand Canyon State is among the top 10 most desirable places to relocate in the United States, attracting folks from as nearby as California to as far away as Florida. Whether you’re moving to Arizona for the sunny weather, outdoor recreation, the robust job market, or anything in between, Scottsdale is an excellent city to put down roots.
This guide will cover what you need to know about the best Scottsdale neighborhoods, such as the types of housing available, the must-see attractions, the overall atmosphere, and other unique qualities that make them stand out. Here’s the criteria we used to select the best neighborhoods in Scottsdale:
Best neighborhoods in Scottsdale for families
Safest neighborhoods in Scottsdale
Best neighborhoods in Scottsdale for young professionals
Wealthiest neighborhoods in Scottsdale
Best neighborhoods in Scottsdale for retirees
Most walkable neighborhoods in Scottsdale
Best neighborhoods in Scottsdale for winter homes
Best neighborhoods in Scottsdale for outdoor recreation
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7 Best Neighborhoods in Scottsdale
Before we jump into the best Scottsdale neighborhoods, let’s briefly touch on the housing and rental market. On average, homes in Scottsdale sell for about $848,565, while two-bedroom apartments rent for nearly $2,245 per month. To learn more about life here, check out our guide on moving to Scottsdale.
1. Old Town: Best neighborhood for young professionals
2. Grayhawk: Best neighborhood for family-oriented vibes
3. McDowell Mountain Ranch: Best neighborhood for nature lovers
4. Arcadia: Best neighborhood for upscale suburban amenities
5. Silverleaf: Best neighborhood for affluent lifestyle perks
6. Cactus Corridor: Best neighborhood for settling into retirement
1. Old Town: Best neighborhood for young professionals
Median home sale price: $575,000
Average apartment rent: $2,458 per month
Commute to downtown Phoenix: 25-minute drive
Don’t miss: Western Spirit Museum, Scottsdale ArtWalk, Fashion Square Mall
Scottsdale is the number-one U.S. city for finding a job, so if you’re on the hunt for dynamic career opportunities and energetic urban vibes, look no further than Old Town. As one of the best neighborhoods in Scottsdale for young professionals, Old Town offers all the essentials — from co-working spaces and coffee shops to regional offices for major companies such as Zillow or Indeed. In terms of housing, choose from industrial lofts, high-rise apartments, and townhomes or condos for a mix of trendiness and convenience.
Old Town is also one of the most walkable Scottsdale neighborhoods with boutiques, galleries, restaurants, and nightlife options on every corner. When you’re off the clock, this area heats up with a variety of entertainment options.
Immerse yourself in Scottsdale’s cultural and historical roots at the Western Spirit Museum. Browse over 200 designer shops at Fashion Square Mall. Or grab appetizers at Culinary Dropout (the feta and tahini dip is a crowd favorite), then enjoy cocktails and live music at Rusty Spur Saloon. There’s also a free ArtWalk on Main Street every Thursday, featuring local artists, musicians, and other creatives.
2. Grayhawk: Best neighborhood for family-oriented vibes
Median home sale price: $900,000
Average apartment rent: $2,647 per month
Commute to Downtown Phoenix: 30-minute drive
Don’t miss: Grayhawk Park, Chula Seafood, Grayhawk Golf Club
As one of the best neighborhoods in Scottsdale for families, Grayhawk boasts custom homes and townhouses, native desert landscaping, and excellent public schools in the sought-after Paradise Valley Unified School District. Its prime North Scottsdale location with consistently low crime rates also makes this area one of the safest neighborhoods in Scottsdale. Families are drawn to Grayhawk for the peaceful, comfortable suburban lifestyle it offers, combined with unique amenities and recreational activities to suit all ages.
Residents can explore over 30 miles of Sonoran Desert trails along the Grayhawk Greenbelt, which connects to playgrounds, athletic courts, and a butterfly garden. The 13-acre Grayhawk Park and 36-hole courses at the Grayhawk Golf Club (including a junior course) provide seemingly endless opportunities for active families.
After working up an appetite from all those recreational outings, you can take advantage of the neighborhood's irresistible dining scene, with crave-worthy options like the fish tacos or hatch chili tuna melts over at Chula Seafood.
3. McDowell Mountain Ranch: Best neighborhood for nature lovers
Median home sale price: $1,500,000
Average apartment rent: $1,990 per month
Commute to Downtown Phoenix: 35-minute drive
Don’t miss: McDowell Sonoran Preserve, The VIG, McDowell Mountain Ranch Park
Located next to the McDowell Sonoran Preserve, McDowell Mountain Ranch stands out as one of the best Scottsdale neighborhoods for nature enthusiasts. This master-planned community features a variety of housing options — from low-maintenance condos to sprawling estates — in Spanish- or Adobe-style architecture that seamlessly blends into the lush desert ecosystem. But the main selling point of McDowell Mountain Ranch is the unbeatable access it provides to more than 55 miles of hiking trails and other outdoor recreation.
Fuel up for adventure with a hearty brunch at The VIG (there’s even a build-your-own mimosa bar). Then, head over to the McDowell Mountain Ranch Park and Aquatic Center, where you can float in the lazy river or join a game of volleyball. Next, marvel at spectacular Sonoran Desert views on the Gateway Loop, one of Scottsdale’s most famous trailheads. For an active lifestyle rooted in nature, it’s hard to top McDowell Mountain Ranch.
4. Arcadia: Best neighborhood for upscale suburban amenities
Median home sale price: $1,630,000
Average apartment rent: $1,987 per month
Commute to Downtown Phoenix: 20-minute drive
Don’t miss: Camelback Mountain, Desert Botanical Garden, Arizona Falls
What is the nicest neighborhood in Scottsdale overall? This distinction goes to Arcadia, thanks to its perfect balance of suburban comfort and convenience. Homes in this area run the gamut from historic mid-century ranches and farmhouse bungalows to Spanish Colonial mansions on charming tree-lined streets.
There’s also “Arcadia Lite,” a more affordable enclave within this neighborhood, for those who want the upscale and urbane ambiance that Arcadia is known for — without the price tag that usually accompanies it.
Another perk of living in Arcadia is its close proximity (we’re talking just a few minutes) to some of the Phoenix Valley’s most iconic attractions. Climb to the summit of Camelback Mountain, where you’ll be treated to panoramic views of the entire city, or meander through 55 acres of unique native cactus species at the Desert Botanical Garden.
For a true hidden local gem, be sure to check out the Arizona Falls, a whimsical public art installation, hydroelectric plant, and 20-foot waterfall on Arcadia’s Canal Path. Then, stop into La Grande Orange Grocery for a bottle of wine and brick-oven pizza, or savor a horchata cold brew coffee on the patio at Ingo’s Tasty Food.
5. Silverleaf: Best neighborhood for affluent lifestyle perks
Median home sale price: $5,075,000
Average apartment rent: $2,129 per month
Commute to Downtown Phoenix: 35-minute drive
Don’t miss: Silverleaf Club, Market Street at DC Ranch, Village Health Club
Scottsdale currently attracts more millionaires than anywhere else across the U.S., but which part of town is the richest neighborhood in Scottsdale? Silverleaf claims this title for the wealthiest neighborhood in Scottsdale, thanks to its multi-million-dollar real estate market of custom-built Mediterranean and Spanish villas in affluent gated communities. Nestled in the exclusive DC Ranch area of North Scottsdale, Silverleaf offers residents sweeping views of McDowell Mountain and access to a wide range of luxurious amenities.
Silverleaf places you right around the corner from 47 parks and over 50 miles of trail networks, but that only scratches the surface of all this neighborhood has to offer. Take a yoga class or hit the tennis court at the Village Health Club. Play a round of golf on the championship course at Silverleaf Club, then relax with a massage and therapeutic bath at the adjacent Silverleaf Spa. Or check out the specialty boutiques and eateries on Market Street, from brunch at Eggstasy to cocktails and charcuterie at The Living Room Wine Bar.
6. Cactus Corridor: Best neighborhood for settling into retirement
- Median home sale price: $2,369,875
- Average apartment rent: $1,852 per month
- Commute to Downtown Phoenix: 25-minute drive
- Don’t miss: Kierland Commons, Cactus Park, OdySea Aquarium
Originally an equestrian hub in the 1940s, Cactus Corridor has since become one of the best neighborhoods in Scottsdale for retirees. This quiet, low-density enclave offers a laidback pace of life and historic ranch-style homes on expansive lots. Many residents in Cactus Corridor still own horses, so it’s not uncommon to find a house with stables, too. You’ll also benefit from close proximity to active adult communities and reputable healthcare facilities, so you can ease into your “golden years” with convenience and peace of mind.
Cactus Corridor is also brimming with diverse entertainment options to suit all interests. Shoot some hoops on the basketball court or do laps in the swimming pool at Cactus Park. Sample Latin and French fusion cuisine at The Mission in nearby Kierland Commons. Enjoy a picnic lunch in the stunning desert vista of Pinnacle Peak. Or spend an afternoon in the immersive marine exhibits at OdySea Aquarium. Whatever you’re into, Cactus Corridor makes it easy to embrace a retirement of leisure, excitement, and social connection.
7. Gainey Ranch: Best neighborhood for winter snowbirds
- Median home sale price: $1,650,000
- Average apartment rent: $2,270 per month
- Commute to Downtown Phoenix: 30-minute drive
- Don’t miss: Grand Hyatt Resort, Gainey Ranch Golf Club, Wally’s Gastropub
The snowbird life feels enjoyable and effortless in Gainey Ranch, thanks to its high concentration of low-maintenance condos or townhouses with resort-inspired amenities. Gainey Ranch’s central location, five miles north of Old Town, keeps the ease of urban living within reach, while its tranquil atmosphere invites you to settle into a slower, calmer pace. Gainey Ranch is also 15 minutes from the Scottsdale Airport, making seasonal travel a breeze.
These qualities make Gainey Ranch one of the best neighborhoods in Scottsdale for winter homes — but let’s be honest, you might never want to leave. The crown jewel of Gainey Ranch is the Grand Hyatt Resort, featuring tennis and pickleball courts, swimming pools, and restaurants such as Tiki Taka’s eclectic fusion of sushi rolls and tapas. Snowbirds can also bask in the perennial Scottsdale sunshine at Gainey Ranch Golf Club, then refuel with the house sangria and famous meatball grinder at Wally’s Gastropub.
| Pro tip: Once you know which of these Scottsdale neighborhoods will best suit your needs, use our moving checklist to streamline your relocation. |
Ease Into Your New Scottsdale Home With Colonial Van Lines
Whether you opt for walkable Old Town or master-planned McDowell Mountain Ranch, Colonial Van Lines can help smooth the transition. Our team has the skills and experience to handle a variety of long-distance moving services, from packing all your items and loading them in the truck to safely transporting them to your new Scottsdale home and unloading them. Contact us for a free moving quote to get started today.