Introduction: Understanding Scottsdale's 31-Mile Geography
Asking “What is the best neighborhood in Scottsdale?” is like asking “What is the best food?” It depends entirely on your taste, lifestyle, and priorities.
The Scottsdale area spans approximately 31 miles from north to south along the base of the McDowell Mountains, but only 5-7 miles wide. This unique geography creates distinct lifestyle zones, each with its own character, amenities, and home styles.
The Three Scottsdale Regions:
- South Scottsdale (ZIP 85251, 85254): Walkable, historic Old Town, nightlife, and urban condos
- Central Scottsdale (ZIP 85250, 85257): Green belts, lakes, resorts, and established family neighborhoods
- North Scottsdale (ZIP 85255, 85258, 85259, 85262): High desert luxury, gated communities, and championship golf courses
Drive Times You Should Know:
- Old Town to Phoenix Sky Harbor Airport: 15 minutes
- Central Scottsdale to Downtown Phoenix: 20 minutes
- North Scottsdale (Troon area) to Airport: 40-45 minutes
- South to North Scottsdale via Scottsdale Road: 35-40 minutes
This guide covers some of the top communities to live in that are in and around the Scottsdale area—whether you’re raising a family, retiring on the golf course, or looking for urban energy.
Scottsdale Neighborhoods at a Glance: 2025 Comparison
1. DC Ranch: North Scottsdale's Premier Master-Planned Community
Location: North Scottsdale, between Thompson Peak Parkway and Pima Road
ZIP Code: 85255
Median Home Price: $1.2M – $3M+
School District: Scottsdale Unified (Cochise Elementary, Desert Canyon Middle, Desert Mountain High)
The DC Ranch Lifestyle
If you want the quintessential North Scottsdale experience—manicured streets, Sonoran Desert views, and resort-style amenities—DC Ranch is the gold standard. Nestled at the base of the McDowell Mountains at approximately 2,400 feet elevation (300 feet higher than central Scottsdale), this 8,000-acre master-planned community feels like living in a luxury resort.
Why DC Ranch Stands Out: Market Street
Unlike many gated communities that feel isolated, DC Ranch has its own village center called Market Street at DC Ranch. This walkable hub features:
- Grimaldi’s Pizzeria and Jalapeño Inferno
- Local restaurants like The Mission and Hula’s Modern Tiki
- Whole Foods Market
- Medical offices and boutique shops
- Connected by 30+ miles of walking and biking trails
Community Amenities
DC Ranch residents receive access to two private community centers:
- Desert Camp: Resort-style pools, fitness center, tennis courts
- The Homestead: Pools, pickleball courts, event spaces
These amenities create an exceptional sense of community rarely found in Arizona neighborhoods.
Commute & Location
- 30 minutes to Phoenix Sky Harbor Airport via Loop 101
- 25 minutes to Downtown Scottsdale (Scottsdale Road)
- 10 minutes to Scottsdale Quarter shopping
- 5 minutes to multiple Scottsdale Unified school.
2. Silverleaf: Ultra-Luxury North Scottsdale Living
- Location: Upper DC Ranch, North Scottsdale
- ZIP Code: 85255
- Median Home Price: $2M – $10M+
- School District: Scottsdale Unified
The Pinnacle of Scottsdale Living
Silverleaf sits at the highest point of DC Ranch, offering some of the most dramatic views in the entire Phoenix metro area. This ultra-luxury community is where you’ll find the area’s most expensive homes and discerning residents.
What Sets Silverleaf Apart
The Views: Perched high in the upper canyon, homes offer 360-degree panoramic views stretching from Four Peaks to downtown Phoenix and beyond.
The Architecture: Custom estates ranging from 5,000 to 15,000+ square feet featuring:
- Contemporary desert modern design
- Infinity pools overlooking the valley
- Wine cellars and home theaters
- Resort-style outdoor living spaces
- Smart home technology throughout
The Silverleaf Club: Members-only private club featuring:
- Tom Fazio-designed championship golf course
- 38,000 sq ft clubhouse
- Fine dining restaurant
- Tennis and fitness facilities
- Social events and networking
The Investment
Lot sizes range from 1 to 5+ acres, with custom homes starting around $2M and reaching well beyond $10M for estate properties. Many homes are architectural masterpieces featured in luxury publications.
Location Benefits
- Part of DC Ranch master plan (access to Market Street amenities)
- 30 minutes to Phoenix Sky Harbor Airport
- 5 minutes to Scottsdale Unified top-rated schools
- Adjacent to McDowell Sonoran Preserve hiking trails
3. Grayhawk: Golf Course Living in North Scottsdale
- Location: North Scottsdale, Scottsdale Road and Thompson Peak Parkway
- ZIP Codes: 85255, 85260
- Median Home Price: $600K – $2M
- School District: Scottsdale Unified
Arizona's Premier Golf Community
Grayhawk is one of the most established and sought-after golf communities in the Scottsdale area. With two championship courses and a vibrant social scene, it’s where golf enthusiasts come to play.
The Golf
Grayhawk features two distinct courses:
- Raptor Course: Designed by Tom Fazio, challenging desert layout
- Talon Course: Designed by David Graham and Gary Panks, more forgiving
Both courses are consistently ranked among Arizona’s best and host professional tournaments.
Housing Options
The community offers diverse housing styles:
- Single-family homes ($600K – $1.5M)
- Luxury estates on golf course ($1.2M – $2M+)
- Townhomes and condos ($400K – $700K)
- Custom homes in gated enclaves ($1M – $2M+)
Architectural styles range from Southwestern adobe to Mediterranean and contemporary.
Community Features
- Phil’s Grill restaurant and bar
- Multiple community pools and parks
- Walking paths throughout
- Social clubs and activities
- Close proximity to shopping and dining
Why Families Love Grayhawk
Beyond the golf, Grayhawk offers:
- Top-rated Scottsdale Unified schools nearby
- Safe, gated neighborhoods
- Family-friendly community events
- Easy access to Scottsdale Quarter and kierland Commons
- Central North Scottsdale location
Commute & Location
- 8 minutes to Phoenix Sky Harbor Airport
- 20 minutes to Downtown Scottsdale
- 5 minutes to Scottsdale Quarter
- 10 minutes to DC Ranch Market Street
4. McDowell Mountain Ranch: Outdoor Living at Its Finest
- Location: North Scottsdale, northeast of Scottsdale Road and Thompson Peak Parkway
- ZIP Code: 85255
- Median Home Price: $700K – $2M
- School District: Scottsdale Unified
Where Desert Living Meets Adventure
McDowell Mountain Ranch is built right against the McDowell Sonoran Preserve, offering residents direct access to over 30,000 acres of protected desert wilderness. This is Scottsdale’s premier community for outdoor enthusiasts.
Direct Preserve Access
What makes McDowell Mountain Ranch truly special:
- Multiple trailheads within the community
- Walk out your door to world-class hiking and mountain biking
- 200+ miles of preserve trails accessible from the neighborhood
- Popular trails include Gateway, Granite Mountain, and Sunrise Peak
Community Design
The ranch features:
- Single-family homes on larger lots ($700K – $1.5M)
- Custom estates with mountain views ($1.2M – $2M+)
- Desert-contemporary and Southwestern architecture
- Most homes built in late 1990s to early 2000s
- Well-maintained community with mature landscaping
Resort-Style Amenities
McDowell Mountain Ranch includes:
- The Ranch House: Community center with fitness facilities
- Multiple pools and spas
- Tennis and basketball courts
- Parks and playgrounds throughout
- Social events and clubs
Family-Friendly Features
- Excellent Scottsdale Unified schools nearby
- Safe, gated neighborhoods
- Active community with families of all ages
- Youth sports and activities
- Connected bike paths for kids
Location Benefits
- 30 minutes to Phoenix Sky Harbor Airport
- 20 minutes to Downtown Scottsdale
- 10 minutes to Scottsdale Quarter shopping
- 5 minutes to Grayhawk and DC Ranch
5. Ancala: North Scottsdale's Newest Ultra-Luxury Community
- Location: Far North Scottsdale, near Dynamite Boulevard and Scottsdale Road
- ZIP Code: 85262
- Median Home Price: $2M – $8M+
- School District: Cave Creek Unified or Scottsdale Unified (verify boundaries)
The New Standard for Desert Luxury
Ancala is one of North Scottsdale’s newest luxury communities, offering modern architecture and dramatic high-desert settings. This is where cutting-edge design meets natural beauty.
What Makes Ancala Special
Modern Architecture: Unlike older Scottsdale communities with traditional Southwestern styles, Ancala features:
- Contemporary desert modern homes
- Clean lines and geometric designs
- Floor-to-ceiling glass walls
- Indoor-outdoor living spaces
- Sustainable design elements
Natural Setting: Built into the high desert at 2,800+ feet elevation:
- Dramatic granite boulder formations
- Native Sonoran Desert landscape
- Spectacular mountain and valley views
- Cooler temperatures (5-7°F lower than valley floor)
- Protected desert preserve surroundings
Privacy and Exclusivity
Ancala offers:
- Guard-gated entry
- Large lot sizes ensuring privacy
- Limited density (fewer homes, more space)
- No through traffic
- Quiet, serene environment
The Trade-Off: Location
Being in far North Scottsdale means:
- 45 minutes to Phoenix Sky Harbor Airport
- 35 minutes to Downtown Scottsdale
- 20 minutes to nearest major shopping
- True “destination” living—you’re here for the experience, not the commute
Nearby Amenities
- Troon North Golf Club (5 minutes)
- The Boulders Resort (10 minutes)
- Carefree town center (10 minutes)
- Direct McDowell Sonoran Preserve access
6. McCormick Ranch: Central Scottsdale's Green Oasis
- Location: Central Scottsdale, bordered by Indian Bend Road, Scottsdale Road, Shea Boulevard
- ZIP Code: 85258
- Median Home Price: $650K – $1.1M
- School District: Scottsdale Unified (Kiva Elementary, Cocopah Middle, Chaparral High)
Breaking the Arizona Desert Stereotype
McCormick Ranch shatters the idea that Arizona is just dirt and cacti. This is one of the largest planned communities in the state, defined by lush grass, man-made lakes, and mature trees—a stark contrast to the desert landscape just miles away.
The Famous Greenbelt System
The Indian Bend Wash Greenbelt runs directly through McCormick Ranch, offering:
- 11 miles of paved paths for cycling and jogging
- 7 lakes with parks and picnic areas
- Connection to the larger 25-mile Scottsdale Greenbelt system
- You can bike from Tempe to North Scottsdale without crossing major streets
Housing Stock
Most homes were built in the 1970s and 1980s—classic single-story ranch homes with:
- 2,000 – 3,500 square feet
- Large lots (often 10,000+ sq ft)
- Many fully remodeled in the last decade
- HOA fees ranging $50-300/month depending on sub-community
Pros:
Most homes were built in the 1970s and 1980s—classic single-story ranch homes with:
- 2,000 – 3,500 square feet
- Large lots (often 10,000+ sq ft)
- Many fully remodeled in the last decade
- HOA fees ranging $50-300/month depending on sub-community
Cons:
- Older homes may require updates (plumbing, roofing, HVAC)
- Original 1970s homes need careful inspection
- Smaller lots than newer North Scottsdale developments
Nearby Amenities
- McCormick Ranch Golf Club
- Multiple community pools and tennis courts
- WestWorld of Scottsdale (events, Barrett-Jackson Auto Auction)
- 10 minutes to Scottsdale Quarter
- 8 minutes to Old Town Entertainment District
7. Old Town Scottsdale: Urban Living & Entertainment Hub
- Location: South Scottsdale, roughly between Indian School Road and Camelback Road
- ZIP Code: 85251
- Median Home Price: $400K (condos) – $2M (luxury towers)
- School District: Scottsdale Unified (varies by exact location)
The Heart of Scottsdale's Identity
When people across the country picture “Scottsdale,” this is what they see. The Entertainment District, Fashion Square Mall, art galleries along Main Street, and the bustling downtown energy all converge here.
Old Town is Condo Country
Single-family homes are rare in central Old Town. The housing landscape includes:
- Luxury High-Rises: Optima Camelview Village, W Residences, Scottsdale Waterfront ($500K – $3M)
- Mid-Rise Condos: Safari Drive area, near Fashion Square ($300K – $800K)
- Garden-Style Condos: Older properties near 5th Avenue ($200K – $450K)
- Rare Single-Family: Historic homes north of 1st Avenue ($800K – $2M+)
The Walkable Lifestyle
You genuinely don’t need a car on weekends:
- 100+ restaurants within walking distance (Diego Pops, FnB, The Mission)
- Scottsdale Fashion Square (Nordstrom, Apple Store, dining)
- 50+ art galleries along Main Street and Marshall Way
- Bars and nightlife on Stetson Drive and Scottsdale Road
- Scottsdale Trolley for free transport around downtown
The Walkable Lifestyle
Louder Areas (Avoid if you value quiet):
- Entertainment District (Stetson Drive, Camelback Road east of Scottsdale Road)
- Directly on Scottsdale Road
Quieter Pockets:
- North of Indian School Road toward Camelback Mountain
- Areas east of Miller Road
- Residential streets between 70th-75th Street
Commute & Access
- 12 minutes to Phoenix Sky Harbor Airport
- 18 minutes to Downtown Phoenix
- 15 minutes to Tempe (ASU campus)
- Walk/bike to dozens of employers in downtown Scottsdale
8. The "Magic" 85254 ZIP Code: Scottsdale Address, Phoenix Taxes
- Location: Technically Phoenix city limits, borders North Scottsdale near Kierland
- ZIP Code: 85254
- Median Home Price: $550K – $950K
- School District: Scottsdale Unified OR Paradise Valley Unified (check specific addresses)
Why 85254 is Called "Magic"
This is one of the most strategic locations in the entire Phoenix metro area. Here’s why savvy buyers love it:
You Get:
- Scottsdale mailing address (prestige factor)
- Access to top-rated Scottsdale Unified or Paradise Valley school districts
- Phoenix property taxes (often 15-20% lower than Scottsdale)
- Phoenix city services (generally more responsive)
You Pay Less For:
- Larger lots compared to Scottsdale proper
- Newer construction than Central Scottsdale
- Similar quality homes as nearby North Scottsdale
Key Neighborhoods in 85254
- Kierland area: Near Kierland Commons outdoor mall
- Tate Harris: Established single-family homes, large lots
- Hidden subdivisions: Many unnamed communities with 1990s-2000s builds
Location Benefits
- 5 minutes to Kierland Commons (restaurants, shopping, entertainment)
- 7 minutes to Scottsdale Quarter
- 20 minutes to Phoenix Sky Harbor Airport
- 25 minutes to North Scottsdale (DC Ranch area)
The Fine Print
Always verify:
- Exact school boundaries (they can change block-by-block)
- HOA rules and fees
- Whether property is Phoenix or Scottsdale municipal services
9. Troon North & Troon Village: High Desert Luxury
- Location: Far North Scottsdale, north of Loop 101 near Dynamite Boulevard
- ZIP Code: 85262
- Median Home Price: $1.5M – $5M+
- School District: Cave Creek Unified or Scottsdale Unified (check boundaries)
Living at Elevation: The Climate Difference
Head north past the Loop 101 freeway, and the elevation climbs from 1,400 feet to over 3,000 feet. This creates:
- Temperatures 4-6°F cooler than South Scottsdale
- More dramatic weather (occasional winter snow dustings)
- Stunning views of Four Peaks and the Valley below
Troon North Golf Club
This area is anchored by Troon North Golf Club, featuring:
- Two championship 18-hole courses (Monument and Pinnacle)
- Consistently ranked top 10 public courses in Arizona
- Desert landscape designed by Tom Weiskopf and Jay Morrish
- Private clubhouse for residents and members
Housing Styles
- Custom Estates: 4,000 – 10,000+ sq ft on 1-5 acre lots
- Luxury Communities: Estancia, Troon Village, Desert Highlands
- Modern Desert Architecture: Floor-to-ceiling windows showcasing views
- Privacy: Large lot sizes, minimal density
The Trade-Off: Distance
- 40 minutes to Phoenix Sky Harbor Airport
- 35 minutes to Downtown Scottsdale (Scottsdale Road)
- 25 minutes to Scottsdale Quarter shopping
- 15 minutes to nearest grocery store (Fry’s at Jobing Plaza)
Nearby Amenities
- Troon North Golf Club
- The Boulders Resort & Spa (Carefree)
- Carefree town center (5 miles north)
- Direct access to McDowell Sonoran Preserve hiking
10. Gainey Ranch: Lock-and-Leave Paradise
- Location: Central Scottsdale, bordered by Doubletree Ranch Road, Scottsdale Road, and Hayden Road
- ZIP Code: 85258
- Median Home Price: $750K – $2.5M
- School District: Scottsdale Unified (Kiva, Cocopah, Chaparral)
From Horse Ranch to Luxury Community
Gainey Ranch was originally an Arabian horse ranch owned by Daniel C. Gainey. Today, it’s a prestigious guard-gated community consisting of 20+ smaller gated enclaves surrounding:
- Hyatt Regency Scottsdale Resort & Spa
- 27-hole Gainey Ranch Golf Club
- Man-made lakes and waterfalls
The Perfect Second Home Setup
Many Gainey Ranch sub-communities offer:
- Full exterior maintenance (landscaping, roof, paint) included in HOA
- Guard-gated security 24/7
- Resort amenities through the Hyatt (for an additional fee)
- Lock-and-leave simplicity
Housing Options
- Patio homes and villas ($750K – $1.2M)
- Single-family homes ($1M – $2M)
- Luxury estates ($2M – $5M)
- Some communities offer furnished rentals
Location Benefits
- 18 minutes to Phoenix Sky Harbor Airport
- 10 minutes to Old Town Scottsdale
- 5 minutes to Scottsdale Fashion Square
- Walking distance to Gainey Village shops
Frequently Asked Questions: Scottsdale Neighborhoods
Is North Scottsdale better than South Scottsdale?
Neither is objectively "better"—they serve different lifestyles. North Scottsdale offers newer construction, larger lots, mountain views, and family-oriented communities, but requires longer commutes. South Scottsdale provides walkability, nightlife, urban energy, and airport proximity, but with older homes and more density.
What's the safest neighborhood in Scottsdale?
According to 2025 data, the safest neighborhoods are gated communities in North Scottsdale: DC Ranch, Silverleaf, Troon North, Ancala, Grayhawk, and McDowell Mountain Ranch. Central areas like Gainey Ranch and McCormick Ranch also report low crime rates.
Where should I live in Scottsdale with kids?
Top family neighborhoods: DC Ranch (Scottsdale Unified schools, community amenities), Grayhawk (top schools, resort lifestyle), McDowell Mountain Ranch (outdoor activities), Silverleaf (ultra-luxury with top schools), McCormick Ranch (greenbelt, central location).
What are property taxes like in different Scottsdale areas?
City of Scottsdale properties pay approximately 0.7-0.9% of assessed value. A $750,000 home costs $4,500-$6,750 annually depending on location.
How far is North Scottsdale from the airport?
DC Ranch/Grayhawk: 30-35 minutes. McDowell Mountain Ranch: 30-35 minutes. Silverleaf: 30-35 minutes. Troon North/Ancala: 40-45 minutes. Add 10-15 minutes during rush hour. Central Scottsdale is 15-20 minutes, Old Town is 12-15 minutes.
Can I live in Scottsdale without a car?
Yes in Old Town within 1 mile of Entertainment District with free Scottsdale Trolley. North and Central Scottsdale require a car for daily activities.
What is the median home price?
Ultra-Luxury: Silverleaf ($2M-$10M+), Ancala ($2M-$8M+). Luxury: DC Ranch ($1.2M-$3M+), Gainey Ranch ($750K-$2.5M). Mid-Range: Grayhawk ($600K-$2M), McDowell Mountain Ranch ($700K-$2M), McCormick Ranch ($650K-$1.1M). Urban: Old Town ($400K-$2M).
Which neighborhoods have the best schools?
DC Ranch & Silverleaf: Cochise Elementary, Desert Canyon Middle, Desert Mountain High. Grayhawk: Desert Canyon Middle, Desert Mountain High. McDowell Mountain Ranch: Trailside Point Elementary. McCormick Ranch & Gainey Ranch: Kiva Elementary, Cocopah Middle, Chaparral High.
What's the difference between North and Central Scottsdale?
North (85255, 85258, 85259, 85262): Newer homes post-1990, higher elevation, desert views, gated luxury, larger lots, 30-45 min to airport. Central (85250, 85257, 85258): 1970s-1980s homes, lush greenbelts, established neighborhoods, 15-20 min to destinations, lower price per square foot.
Is Old Town a good place to live?
Excellent for young professionals and empty nesters preferring walkability. Benefits: 100+ restaurants, 12 min to airport, free trolley, nightlife. Drawbacks: Can be noisy, mostly condos ($400K-$2M). Choose areas north of Indian School Road for quieter living.
What's the best golf community?
Grayhawk: Two courses, accessible pricing ($600K-$2M), family-friendly. Troon North: Tom Weiskopf courses, ultra-luxury ($1.5M-$5M+), top-ranked. Silverleaf: Private Tom Fazio course, most exclusive ($2M-$10M+). Gainey Ranch: 27-hole course, resort amenities ($750K-$2.5M).
Which has best outdoor recreation?
McDowell Mountain Ranch leads with direct McDowell Sonoran Preserve access: 200+ miles of trails, multiple trailheads including Gateway, Granite Mountain, Sunrise Peak. Also good: Troon North & Ancala (high desert, preserve), DC Ranch & Silverleaf (30+ miles internal trails).
Most family-friendly neighborhood?
DC Ranch ranks #1: Top Scottsdale Unified schools, two community centers, Market Street village, 30+ miles trails, family events, gated safety, diverse housing ($600K-$3M+). Close second: Grayhawk. Best for active families: McDowell Mountain Ranch.
Are these good investments?
Strong long-term growth: DC Ranch, Silverleaf, Grayhawk show 4-7% annual appreciation. Seasonal rental income: Gainey Ranch, Old Town, Grayhawk popular with snowbirds. Market stability: Luxury ($1M+) more volatile but recovers strongly, mid-range ($600K-$1M) shows steady growth.
What lifestyle matches each neighborhood?
Ultra-luxury: Silverleaf, Ancala. Golf: Grayhawk, Troon North, Gainey Ranch. Family: DC Ranch, Grayhawk, McDowell Mountain Ranch. Outdoor: McDowell Mountain Ranch, Troon North. Central location: McCormick Ranch, Gainey Ranch. Urban: Old Town. Privacy: Ancala, Troon North, Silverleaf.
Choosing Your Scottsdale Area Neighborhood in 2025
The best Scottsdale neighborhood depends on your lifestyle priorities, budget, and tolerance for commuting:
Choose Ultra-Luxury North Scottsdale:
Silverleaf ($2M-$10M+):
Pinnacle of Scottsdale living, 360-degree views, custom estates, private Tom Fazio golf club, ultra-exclusive.
Ancala ($2M-$8M+):
Contemporary desert modern, newest luxury community, dramatic boulders, maximum privacy, cutting-edge design.
Choose Golf Course Living:
Grayhawk ($600K-$2M):
Two championship courses, accessible pricing, active social scene, family-friendly.
Troon North ($1.5M-$5M+):
World-class courses, dramatic desert, cooler temps, large estates, privacy.
Gainey Ranch ($750K-$2.5M):
27-hole course, resort amenities, lock-and-leave, central location.
Choose Family-Focused Communities:
DC Ranch ($1.2M-$3M+):
#1 family community, two community centers, Market Street, top schools, 30+ miles trails, strong community.
Grayhawk ($600K-$2M):
Family activities, safe gated areas, resort pools, excellent schools.
McDowell Mountain Ranch ($700K-$2M):
Active outdoorsy families, trail access, safe, larger lots, preserve views.
McCormick Ranch ($650K-$1.1M):
Central location, greenbelt system, good schools, more affordable, established.
Choose Outdoor Recreation:
McDowell Mountain Ranch ($700K-$2M):
#1 for outdoors, multiple preserve trailheads, 200+ miles trails, mountain views, health-conscious community.
Troon North/Ancala ($1.5M-$8M+):
High desert, preserve access, cooler climate, dramatic landscapes.
DC Ranch ($1.2M-$3M+):
30+ miles internal trails, preserve access, outdoor events.
