A Guide To Scottsdale Neighborhoods | What You’ll Find In Each

From its artsy vibe to jaw-dropping desert estates, Scottsdale blends luxury with nature in a way few places do. But with so many neighborhoods to choose from, how do you know which one fits you best?

Whether you’re all about golf courses, pedestrian-friendly streets, or a quiet desert retreat, Scottsdale’s got something that’ll click.

In this guide, we’ll break down the top spots to live and what makes each one stand out. Let’s get into it and find the neighborhood that’s right for you.

What Makes Scottsdale Stand Out

What started in the 1880s as a small farming town has transformed into one of the most desirable places to live in Greater Phoenix.

Today, Scottsdale is known for its breathtaking desert views, top-tier golf courses, upscale dining, and boutique shopping.

Beyond its stunning landscape, Scottsdale draws professionals, athletes, and entrepreneurs who appreciate the city’s high-end amenities, exclusive communities, and year-round outdoor activities.

Whether it's hiking the rugged Camelback Mountain, enjoying a day at the Scottsdale Waterfront, or catching a game at Salt River Fields, there’s no shortage of things to do.

Scottsdale’s neighborhoods blend nature with luxury living in ways few other places can. Old Town Scottsdale is the heart of the city, offering art galleries, eclectic dining, and historic architecture. On the other hand, the surrounding areas feature quiet, gated communities with sweeping desert vistas.

The Different Scottsdale Neighborhoods

No matter what kind of lifestyle you’re after, Scottsdale neighborhoods offer something for everyone. Let’s take a closer look at what some of them have to offer.

McCormick Ranch

Offering a mix of traditional desert-style homes, townhouses, and larger estates, McCormick Ranch caters to a variety of buyers. The area is famous for its lush landscaping, which includes extensive lakes and tree-lined streets, giving it a serene, picturesque feel.

One of the standout features of McCormick Ranch is how easy it is to get around and enjoy the outdoors. The Greenbelt, a paved path that stretches for miles, connects the community to parks, lakes, and golf courses. It’s perfect for biking, relaxed outings, or simply enjoying the outdoors.

The neighborhood is also home to several recreational spaces, including Lake Marguerite and Indian Bend Wash. McCormick Ranch also gives you access to the renowned McCormick Ranch Golf Club.

When it comes to convenience, McCormick Ranch is just minutes from Old Town Scottsdale. This gives residents quick access to Scottsdale’s amenities.

Gainey Ranch

This gated community offers a range of homes, from low-maintenance townhomes to sprawling estates. One of the biggest draws of Gainey Ranch is the Gainey Ranch Golf Club, a private 27-hole course that’s a hub for residents who enjoy golf, tennis, and fitness.

The neighborhood itself is designed for those who value both tranquility and convenience. Just minutes away from The Shops at Gainey Village, residents have access to upscale dining, boutique shopping, and a variety of high-end services.

The Hyatt Regency Scottsdale Resort is also nearby, providing additional dining options, a spa, and a luxury pool.

Gainey Ranch also offers direct access to Camelback Mountain’s hiking trails and is close to several pedestrian-friendly paths that run along the Arizona Canal.

Silverleaf

Silverleaf stands as one of Scottsdale’s most exclusive communities. This private neighborhood is defined by expansive estates that showcase architectural variety, from Mediterranean villas to modern desert masterpieces.

The Silverleaf Club is a major draw, not just for its Tom Weiskopf-designed golf course, but for the entire lifestyle it provides. With only residents and their guests granted access, it boasts a full-service spa and fitness center. The Silverleaf Grill, an upscale dining venue, serves gourmet dishes with mountain views.

For those who want to stay active outdoors, Silverleaf offers exclusive hiking trails that wind through the desert landscape, providing an intimate connection to the natural beauty of the Sonoran Desert. Silverleaf’s access to North Scottsdale’s finest amenities is another perk, with Scottsdale Quarter and Kierland Commons just a short drive away.

DC Ranch

At the heart of DC Ranch is the DC Ranch Village Health Club, a state-of-the-art facility offering a fully equipped gym, tennis courts, and a heated outdoor pool. The community is also known for its pathways that lead into the scenic trails of the McDowell Sonoran Preserve.

For golf lovers, the private Country Club at DC Ranch delivers a refined playing experience close to home. The community’s active lifestyle is further complemented by its easy accessibility to DC Ranch Crossing, a retail and dining hub featuring popular spots like North Italia and True Food Kitchen.

DC Ranch is also home to gated sections, offering added privacy and security for those looking for an extra layer of exclusivity within the community.

Troon North

Troon North offers a rare blend of tranquility and stunning desert scenery. Situated in North Scottsdale, this community features a range of homes from custom estates to townhomes, all designed to take full advantage of the surrounding desert landscape.

Many properties in Troon North offer expansive lots with sweeping views of the rugged Sonoran Desert, and a few are even situated near natural washes or the Tonto National Forest.

The Troon North Golf Club, one of the region's most renowned courses, features two Tom Weiskopf-designed courses, The Monument Course and The Pinnacle Course. The clubhouse also provides an upscale dining experience with panoramic views of the golf course and the desert.

For outdoor enthusiasts, Troon North is just minutes away from Pinnacle Peak Park, a favorite for those looking to enjoy scenic hiking trails with stunning views of the Valley of the Sun. You’re also only a short drive away from North Scottsdale's vibrant dining and shopping scenes, including The Scottsdale Quarter and Kierland Commons.

Desert Mountain

Desert Mountain offers a rare combination of natural seclusion and luxury. Located in North Scottsdale, this gated community spans 8,000 acres of the Sonoran Desert and is renowned for its seven golf courses, including the highly regarded Desert Mountain Golf Club. The Par 54 course is one of only a few in the country, providing a unique golfing experience.

Homes here range from Mediterranean-inspired villas to contemporary estates, often perched on multi-acre lots with sweeping mountain views. Desert Mountain is gated and has 24-hour security, providing unparalleled privacy for its residents.

While Desert Mountain is nestled in a serene, high-desert environment, it’s still just a short drive from Scottsdale’s shopping, dining, and entertainment options, including Scottsdale Quarter and Kierland Commons.

Old Town Scottsdale

Old Town Scottsdale is where the charm of the past meets the vibrancy of the present. The neighborhood is home to a rich arts and culture scene, anchored by venues like the Scottsdale Museum of Contemporary Art and the iconic Western Spirit: Scottsdale’s Museum of the West.

For dining, Old Town Scottsdale has something for every taste. Grab a meal at Virtu Honest Craft, an intimate spot offering Mediterranean-inspired dishes, or visit Olive & Ivy, a local favorite known for its modern Italian fare.

For shopping, you’ll find an array of boutiques along Main Street and Marshall Way, offering everything from high-end fashion to local artwork.

The district is also a hub for nightlife, with bars and lounges like The Rusty Spur Saloon and Bitter & Twisted Cocktail Parlour. Annual events like the Scottsdale Arts Festival and Old Town Farmers Market bring even more life to the area.

With its blend of history and current trends, along with a plethora of things to do, Old Town Scottsdale offers a unique urban lifestyle with an unmistakable Southwestern flair.

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re seeking the tranquility of Troon North, the resort-style living of Gainey Ranch, or the celebrity allure of Silverleaf, one thing’s for sure: Scottsdale has a neighborhood for everyone looking to enjoy a luxury lifestyle.

Ready to find your ideal Scottsdale home? Explore more with Williams Luxury Homes and let us guide you to your next chapter in the Valley of the Sun.