Living in Scottsdale Arizona - EVERYTHING You Need to Know
What is Living in Scottsdale Arizona Like?
Scottsdale, Arizona, located in Maricopa County, is home to approximately 258,000 people. The city offers a unique blend of desert beauty and urban sophistication, making it a desirable place to live. Scottsdale provides easy access to outdoor activities such as hiking, golfing, and horseback riding. The city is conveniently located near major highways, including Loop 101, allowing easy travel to other cities and attractions in the Phoenix metropolitan area. Scottsdale embodies the Southwest lifestyle with its stunning desert landscapes, breathtaking sunsets, and proximity to the McDowell Sonoran Preserve. Residents and visitors of Scottsdale can enjoy a wide range of recreational activities, including exploring the vibrant Old Town Scottsdale, shopping at upscale boutiques, and dining at world-class restaurants.
One of the main attractions in Scottsdale, Arizona, is Old Town Scottsdale. There is plenty to do and see in Old Town, with many art galleries, boutiques, souvenir shops, and Western-themed stores in the area. Old Town also boasts numerous bars, restaurants, and clubs, making it a hotspot for those looking to enjoy the city's entertainment scene. Another attraction in the area is the McDowell Sonoran Preserve, a vast desert landscape that offers numerous hiking and biking trails and stunning views of the surrounding mountains. Scottsdale also has several other parks, including Chaparral Park and Indian Bend Wash Greenbelt, which offer amenities such as lakes, sports fields, and picnic areas, providing plenty of opportunities for residents and visitors to enjoy the outdoors.
There are several large employers in and around Scottsdale, Arizona, including Mayo Clinic, which has a major medical facility in nearby Phoenix; GoDaddy, a well-known Domain Registrar and Web Hosting company whose headquarters are in Scottsdale; HonorHealth, a large healthcare system operating multiple hospitals and healthcare facilities throughout the region; and the Salt River Pima-Maricopa Indian Community, which operates several businesses in the area.
The cost of living in Scottsdale, Arizona, is higher than the national average and the Arizona average, but it offers a luxurious and upscale lifestyle for those looking to live in the Southwest. Today, the average home value in Scottsdale stands around $775,000, making homeownership a more expensive option for individuals and families living in Scottsdale, Arizona. If you want to rent, you'll find the average cost for a one-bedroom apartment in Scottsdale is around $1,775 monthly. There are a variety of housing options available for those living in Scottsdale, Arizona, including single-family homes, townhomes, condos, and apartments.
If you're looking for a medium-sized city with easy access to bigger cities, a charming downtown, excellent schools, and plenty of outdoor activities, Scottsdale, Arizona, would be the perfect place for you! Keep reading to learn more about what it's like to live in Scottsdale, Arizona, including details about its neighborhoods, schools, cost of living, and some pros and cons of living in Scottsdale. This information should help you determine whether living in Scottsdale, Arizona, is the right choice for you and your family.
Are you Thinking of Buying a Home in Scottsdale Arizona?
Would you like to buy a home in Scottsdale, Arizona? Let our team of trusted professionals help you buy or/and sell a home in the Scottsdale area. To connect with a local expert/real estate professional in Scottsdale, Arizona, to help you navigate your home buying journey, CLICK HERE. To start receiving emails with homes that match your criteria in Scottsdale, CLICK HERE and sign up for Listing Alert. With a little info on what, where, and how much, you'll get newly listed homes matching your criteria sent to your inbox as they hit the market. This can give you a big leg up in your home search.
The first step in the home-buying process is getting pre-approved for a mortgage. Todd Davidson is an experienced mortgage broker and can help you get the best financing option for your home purchase. Not quite ready yet? Todd can help you put together a plan to get you there. Whether you're thinking a few months or a year or more if you want to buy a home, reach out to Todd and he can help. CLICK HERE to email Todd and set up a call to get the process started.
Todd Davidson
Mortgage Broker
What is the Cost of Living in Scottsdale Arizona?
If you're exploring a move to Scottsdale, Arizona, or any place, the cost of living would be a significant factor in your decision-making. I calculated the REAL cost of living in Scottsdale, Arizona, by factoring in today's costs for housing (rent and own), utilities, food, transportation, healthcare, and other necessities to live. To live in Scottsdale, Arizona, and rent, you would need to make $47,000 a year. To live in Scottsdale, Arizona, and buy a home, you would need to make $74,000 a year. Rental amount is based on current low end cost of studio or one bedroom, purchase is based on recent low end sales of a three bedroom and monthly payment with 20% down.
Living in Scottsdale Arizona Tips/Info/Blog Posts
23 FAQs A REALTOR GETS ASKED > CLICK HERE
18 MORTGAGE FAQs > CLICK HERE
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WANT TO KNOW WHEN A HOME MATCHING YOUR CRITERIA GETS LISTED? SIGN UP FOR LISTING ALERT > CLICK HERE
MORTGAGE INFO > CLICK HERE
FREE HOME OWNERSHIP GUIDE > CLICK HERE
Top Neighborhoods in Sottsdale Arizona
Welcome to Scottsdale, Arizona, a captivating city renowned for its desert beauty and vibrant lifestyle. Living in Scottsdale, Arizona, you'll find many exceptional neighborhoods, each offering its unique appeal and sense of community. Scottsdale's neighborhoods provide an array of housing options to accommodate a variety of budgets and lifestyles. Below we'll examine six of the most popular Scottsdale neighborhoods that you'll want to consider if moving to Scottsdale, Arizona:
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Old Town Scottsdale: As the heart of the city, Old Town Scottsdale exudes a vibrant and historic charm. This neighborhood offers a mix of single-family homes, condos, and apartments, catering to residents with diverse lifestyles. The area is renowned for its art galleries, boutiques, and lively nightlife scene, making it a hub for culture and entertainment. Nearby parks like Chaparral Park offer recreational spaces and scenic jogging trails. Within Old Town, residents and visitors can enjoy attractions such as the Scottsdale Museum of Contemporary Art and Scottsdale Fashion Square. Additionally, the neighborhood boasts an array of dining options, from upscale restaurants to casual eateries, serving various cuisines to satisfy all palates.
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McCormick Ranch: Nestled around lush golf courses and green belts, McCormick Ranch is an affluent neighborhood offering a mix of single-family homes and townhomes. The community boasts a suburban feel with well-maintained properties and tree-lined streets. Residents here can enjoy an active lifestyle with bike paths, hiking trails, and community parks like Comanche Park. McCormick Ranch also has popular attractions such as the McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park, featuring train rides and picnic areas. The neighborhood is home to a diverse selection of dining options, ranging from cozy cafes to upscale restaurants, providing a wide range of culinary experiences.
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DC Ranch: Situated in North Scottsdale, DC Ranch is an upscale neighborhood with luxury single-family homes and townhouses. The area offers a mix of modern amenities and a desert landscape, providing a sense of exclusivity and serenity. With access to well-maintained parks like Market Street Park and walking trails, outdoor enthusiasts will find plenty of opportunities to stay active. DC Ranch is also home to the DC Ranch Village Health Club & Spa, offering fitness facilities and recreational programs. While the neighborhood doesn't have many commercial establishments, nearby shopping centers and restaurants in the greater North Scottsdale area are easily accessible.
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Gainey Ranch: Known for its upscale ambiance, Gainey Ranch features luxurious condos and single-family homes. The neighborhood offers a secure gated community with well-manicured landscapes and golf courses, providing a resort-like atmosphere. The Gainey Ranch Golf Club is a prominent attraction for golf enthusiasts, while the Gainey Village Health Club & Spa caters to those seeking wellness and fitness facilities. The nearby Shops Gainey Village offers a mix of upscale boutiques and dining options, making it a popular shopping destination.
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McDowell Mountain Ranch: Situated at the base of the McDowell Mountains, this family-friendly neighborhood offers a mix of single-family homes and townhouses. The area is known for its picturesque views and access to outdoor activities, including hiking and mountain biking trails in the McDowell Mountain Preserve. The community also features multiple parks and recreation centers, such as McDowell Mountain Ranch Park and Aquatic Center, providing residents ample leisure and exercise opportunities. The McDowell Mountain Golf Club is a local attraction for golf enthusiasts. Retail centers like McDowell Mountain Marketplace offer a variety of shops, restaurants, and services for the convenience of residents.
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Arcadia: Arcadia boasts charming older homes and newly built estates, providing a unique blend of traditional and contemporary architecture. The neighborhood is characterized by large yards and mature landscaping, giving it a suburban feel close to the urban amenities of Scottsdale. Arcadia is known for its vibrant dining scene, with numerous locally-owned restaurants and cafes offering diverse culinary experiences. The nearby Arcadia Park provides a lush green space with playgrounds and sports facilities. Additionally, Camelback Mountain and the Arizona Canal Trail offer opportunities for outdoor activities like hiking and biking.
20 Pros and Cons of Living in Scottsdale Arizona
Living in Scottsdale Arizona Pros
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Beautiful Weather: Enjoy the abundance of sunny days and mild winters, creating an ideal climate for outdoor activities year-round.
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Natural Beauty: Embrace the stunning desert landscape, picturesque mountains, and breathtaking sunsets surrounding the city.
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Outdoor Activities: With numerous parks, hiking trails, golf courses, and biking paths, Scottsdale provides ample opportunities for outdoor recreation and a healthy lifestyle.
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Cultural Scene: Explore a thriving arts and cultural scene with art galleries, museums, theaters, and regular community events.
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Diverse Dining Options: Indulge in a diverse range of restaurants and eateries offering everything from international cuisine to farm-to-table experiences.
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Shopping Paradise: Shop at upscale boutiques, fashion centers, and local markets, providing a variety of retail experiences.
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Wellness and Spa: Pamper yourself at luxurious spas and wellness centers offering relaxation and rejuvenation.
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Safe Community: Scottsdale maintains a reputation for being a safe and secure city, ensuring a comfortable living environment.
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Family-Friendly: With excellent schools, family-oriented neighborhoods, and many family activities, Scottsdale is an ideal place to raise children.
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Active Social Scene: Engage in a vibrant social life with a wide range of entertainment options, from sports events and concerts to festivals and community gatherings.
Living in Scottsdale Arizona Cons
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Extreme Heat: Summers in Scottsdale can be scorching, with temperatures often exceeding 100 degrees Fahrenheit, making outdoor activities uncomfortable.
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High Cost of Living: The cost of living in Scottsdale is relatively high, including housing, utilities, and groceries.
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Water Scarcity: Being in the desert, water resources are limited, and the city faces ongoing concerns about water availability.
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Traffic Congestion: As a popular tourist and residential destination, traffic congestion can be a common issue, especially during peak seasons.
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Limited Public Transportation: Public transportation options are limited, and most residents rely on personal vehicles for commuting.
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Lack of Greenery: While the desert landscape is beautiful, some may miss the lush greenery typical of other regions.
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Tourist Crowds: Scottsdale attracts many tourists, particularly during the winter season, which can lead to crowded areas and increased noise levels.
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Monotonous Architecture: Some residents may find the prevalence of stucco-style architecture in many developments lacks architectural diversity.
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Seasonal Allergies: The desert environment can trigger allergies for some individuals, particularly during pollen seasons.
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Utility Bills: Cooling costs during the hot summers can result in higher utility bills, especially for air conditioning.
FAQs About Living in Scottsdale Arizona
What is Scottsdale Arizona known for?
Scottsdale, Arizona, is most known for its annual Arabian Horse Show, which takes place every February and celebrates the beauty and elegance of Arabian horses. The show attracts visitors from all over the world and features various events and activities such as horse competitions, breed showcases, art exhibits, and a marketplace. The majestic Arabian horses are a sight to behold and have become an iconic symbol of Scottsdale and the equestrian community in the area.
What cities and attractions is Scottsdale close to?
Scottsdale, Arizona, is located in Maricopa County, part of the Sonoran Desert region in the southwestern part of the state. The city is approximately 10 miles east of Phoenix and 20 miles north of Tempe. Scottsdale is close to several other cities in the area, including Mesa, about 10 miles to the east, and Glendale, about 15 miles to the west. The city is also within easy driving distance of other popular destinations in the region, such as the McDowell Sonoran Preserve, Camelback Mountain, and the Tonto National Forest. Scottsdale's central location in Maricopa County makes it an excellent starting point for exploring the surrounding natural beauty and nearby cities.
What is the weather like in Scottsdale Arizona?
Living in Scottsdale, Arizona, you can expect hot and dry weather throughout the year. In the winter months, the average high temperatures range from 65°F to 75°F, and the average low temperatures range from 45°F to 55°F. The city rarely experiences any snowfall during the winter. Summers in Scottsdale are extremely hot, with average high temperatures ranging from 100°F to 105°F and occasional heatwaves reaching temperatures above 110°F. The city receives very little rainfall, with an average of only 9 inches of precipitation annually, mostly occurring during the monsoon season in the summer months.
Does Scottsdale have good public schools?
Students in Scottsdale, Arizona, attend public school in the Scottsdale Unified School District, which serves the city of Scottsdale and some surrounding areas. For school year 2022-23, Niche.com ranks the Scottsdale Unified School District #4 among all school districts in Arizona, giving it an overall A- rating. The district is dedicated to providing a comprehensive education, including a strong emphasis on STEM and college readiness programs, and offers a wide range of extracurricular activities for students with diverse interests. The district boasts a diverse student population and has established strong partnerships with local businesses and organizations. Families residing in Scottsdale, Arizona, can have confidence in the public school system's ability to provide their children with a high-quality education.
Is Scottsdale Arizona safe?
Living in Scottsdale, Arizona, you'll find it an incredibly safe place. Property crime rates in Scottsdale are significantly lower than the national average, and violent crime rates are impressively lower than the national average. According to NeighborhoodScout.com, Scottsdale has a crime rate lower than 85% of all US cities. Scottsdale, Arizona, residents can feel extremely secure in their day-to-day lives.
What is there to do living in Scottsdale Arizona?
Living in Scottsdale, Arizona, you will always have things to do. The city is surrounded by natural beauty, including the McDowell Sonoran Preserve and the Camelback Mountain, offering ample opportunities for hiking, biking, and exploring the desert landscape. Scottsdale boasts several parks, including Chaparral Park and Eldorado Park, which feature playgrounds, picnic areas, and scenic walking trails. The city hosts several annual events, including the Scottsdale Arabian Horse Show, which attracts visitors from around the world, and the Scottsdale Culinary Festival, offering delicious food and live entertainment. If you're looking for a day trip, Scottsdale is located near attractions like the Desert Botanical Garden and the Phoenix Zoo. Whether you enjoy outdoor activities or cultural experiences, there is always something to do in Scottsdale, Arizona.
Who are the large employers in Scottsdale Arizona?
If living in Scottsdale, Arizona, some of the top employers include HonorHealth, which employs over 10,000 workers, the Scottsdale Unified School District, which employs over 4,000 people, and the City of Scottsdale, which employs over 3,000 individuals. Other notable employers in Scottsdale include Mayo Clinic, Vanguard, and various hospitality and tourism companies. With a diverse range of employers, residents of Scottsdale can find opportunities in healthcare, education, government, finance, and the hospitality industry.
How is the healthcare in Scottsdale Arizona?
Living in Scottsdale, Arizona, puts you near the HonorHealth Scottsdale Shea Medical Center, which is a level III trauma center and has 433 beds. This hospital would likely be able to provide you with most of your medical needs. If looking for a specialist and can't find them in the Scottsdale area, you're around 20 miles away from the Mayo Clinic Hospital in Phoenix, Arizona, which is one of the top hospitals in the US.
Is Scottsdale, Arizona, a good city for retirees?
If you're retiring or thinking of retiring, there are many reasons you should consider Scottsdale, Arizona. The weather in Scottsdale is a major draw, with its abundant sunshine and mild winters providing a welcoming environment for retirees seeking a more temperate climate. The city's array of activities ensures retirees can remain socially engaged and physically active, with opportunities for golfing, hiking, arts and cultural events, and access to numerous senior centers. From upscale shopping to dining options, Scottsdale provides retirees a vibrant and diverse lifestyle. Taxes can be a big consideration, especially in retirement. Arizona does not tax Social Security benefits, the state's income tax rates are relatively moderate, and the sales tax isn't high, providing some financial relief for retirees. Property taxes can vary depending on the specific county in Arizona, but overall, property taxes in Arizona are fairly low. The combination of favorable weather, abundant activities, and a relatively tax-friendly environment makes Scottsdale, Arizona, an excellent spot for retirees seeking a high-quality, enjoyable retirement experience.
Is Scottsdale Arizona a good place to live?
Scottsdale, Arizona is a great place to live because of its warm climate, stunning desert landscapes, and abundance of outdoor activities. Additionally, the city offers a vibrant arts and culture scene, upscale shopping and dining options, and a strong sense of community.
I want to relocate to Scottsdale Arizona. How do I make it happen?
You've come to the right spot if you're looking to move to Scottsdale Arizona. There’s a lot of information on this website to help including some helpful links below. If you want to ask questions, try our Facebook Group > Moving to Arizona where we have broad group of locals to answer any question you might have. If you’re looking to buy a home in the Scottsdale Arizona area, getting pre-approved for a mortgage should be your first step. For Mortgage Info, reach out to me. I would love to tell you more about what living in Scottsdale Arizona, is like as well as help with your mortgage if you decide to purchase a home.