North Scottsdale
North Scottsdale is one of the most prestigious and desirable areas in Arizona. It is known for its luxurious homes, breathtaking desert landscapes, top-tier golf courses, and upscale lifestyle. But what part of the city is considered North Scottsdale? Generally, North Scottsdale includes the area north of Shea Boulevard, extending to the city’s northern boundaries. The region spans several zip codes: 85050, 85054, 85254, 85255, 85258, 85259, 85260, 85262, 85266, 85268, 85331, and 85377.
North Scottsdale stands out for its high-end real estate, master-planned communities, thriving business hub at Scottsdale Airpark, and world-class shopping and dining. This guide will explore everything about North Scottsdale, including its premier neighborhoods, lifestyle, schools, real estate trends, and why it continues to attract affluent buyers from across the country.
Also Read: What Area Of Scottsdale Should I Move To?
Why Is North Scottsdale So Expensive?
North Scottsdale commands some of the highest real estate prices in Arizona, and for good reason. Here are the primary factors contributing to its high cost:
- Exclusive Master-Planned Communities: North Scottsdale features some of the most luxurious and well-planned neighborhoods, including gated communities with resort-style amenities.
- World-Class Golf Courses: Properties in North Scottsdale are often adjacent to or within high-end golf clubs, such as Silverleaf, Troon Village, and Desert Mountain, which drive up real estate prices.
- High Demand & Limited Supply: The region has become a prime destination for high-net-worth individuals, resulting in strong demand and limited availability of high-end homes.
- Top-Rated Schools: Those with children are drawn to North Scottsdale for its highly rated schools, adding to its desirability.
- Scottsdale Airpark’s Thriving Business Scene: Many professionals and business owners seek homes in North Scottsdale to be near the growing employment hub of Scottsdale Airpark.
Also Read: What Is The Cost Of Living In Scottsdale?
Entertainment In North Scottsdale
North Scottsdale offers a wide array of entertainment options, from outdoor recreation to fine arts and nightlife. Some of the top attractions include:
- Golf & Resorts: TPC Scottsdale, Troon North Golf Club, and the Four Seasons Resort at Troon North provide a world-class golf and spa experience.
- Shopping & Dining: Kierland Commons and Scottsdale Quarter feature luxury shopping and upscale dining.
- Outdoor Adventures: Pinnacle Peak Park and the McDowell Sonoran Preserve offer miles of scenic hiking trails.
- Cultural Events: The Scottsdale Arabian Horse Show and Barrett-Jackson Auto Auction draw global audiences.
- Live Music & Nightlife: Venues such as Kazimierz Wine & Whiskey Bar and the Scottsdale Quarter’s entertainment district provide an upscale nightlife scene.
Healthcare In North Scottsdale
North Scottsdale is home to some of the best medical facilities in the region, making it an ideal location for retirees and households who prioritize healthcare access. Notable healthcare centers include:
- Mayo Clinic Scottsdale: A world-renowned hospital known for its cutting-edge research and medical expertise.
- HonorHealth Scottsdale Shea Medical Center: A top-rated hospital providing emergency and specialized care.
- Scottsdale Liberty Hospital: A new state-of-the-art medical facility offering high-quality healthcare services.
- Multiple Private Practices & Wellness Clinics: From concierge medicine to holistic health centers, North Scottsdale offers comprehensive medical and wellness services.
Also Read: Things To Know Before Moving To Scottsdale
Scottsdale Airpark
Scottsdale Airpark is one of the largest employment centers in Arizona, driving much of North Scottsdale’s economic growth. Key features of Scottsdale Airpark include:
- Home to over 60,000 jobs in finance, tech, healthcare, and aviation.
- Scottsdale Airport (SDL): A major hub for private and corporate jet travel.
- High-end Office Spaces & Retail: Including mixed-use developments like One Scottsdale and Cavasson.
- Proximity to Luxury Living: Many executives and business owners choose North Scottsdale for its convenience to the Airpark.
Schools In North Scottsdale
Education is a major factor in North Scottsdale’s appeal. The area is home to some of the best schools in Arizona, including:
- Public Schools: Scottsdale Unified School District, featuring top-rated schools such as Desert Mountain High School and Chaparral High School.
- Charter Schools: BASIS Scottsdale and Scottsdale Preparatory Academy consistently rank among the best in the state.
- Private Schools: Notre Dame Preparatory High School and Rancho Solano Prep provide premier private education options.
Also Read: What Are The Best Schools In The City Of Scottsdale?
North Scottsdale’s Premier Communities
Grayhawk: Family-Friendly Luxury with Golf at Its Core
Grayhawk is a 1,615-acre master-planned community just north of Loop 101, offering a blend of family-friendly and luxury living. It features two main sections:
- The Park: Non-gated neighborhoods with parks, greenbelts, and top-rated schools.
- The Retreat: Guard-gated communities surrounding the Grayhawk Golf Club, home to the Talon and Raptor courses.
Grayhawk is known for its excellent amenities, walking and biking trails, and close proximity to shopping and dining.
DC Ranch & Silverleaf: Exclusive and Prestigious
DC Ranch is a meticulously designed master-planned community at the base of the McDowell Mountains. It offers:
- Upscale townhouses, luxury villas, and custom estates
- Market Street at DC Ranch, a boutique shopping and dining destination
- Over 50 miles of walking trails and 47 parks
Within DC Ranch is Silverleaf, one of the most exclusive enclaves in Arizona, featuring:
- Guard-gated privacy
- Multi-million-dollar custom estates
- Silverleaf Club, a private golf club with a championship Tom Weiskopf-designed course
Troon North & Troon Village: Elevated Desert Living
The Troon area in far North Scottsdale is famous for its scenic beauty and golf-centric luxury. It includes:
- Troon North Golf Club, with the Monument and Pinnacle courses
- Custom luxury homes with mountain and golf course views
- A higher elevation (~2,500 feet), offering slightly cooler temperatures in summer
McDowell Mountain Ranch & Windgate Ranch: Family-Oriented Living
McDowell Mountain Ranch (MMR) is a well-planned community featuring:
- Miles of walking trails
- Community centers with pools and sports courts
- The McDowell Mountain Golf Club
Adjacent to MMR is Windgate Ranch, a newer luxury community with Spanish Hacienda-style homes, resort-style pools, and a family-friendly atmosphere.
Scottsdale Mountain: Hillside Homes With Panoramic Views
Perched against the McDowell Mountains, Scottsdale Mountain is a gated community known for:
- Expansive mountain and city-light views
- Tennis courts and community spa
- Nearby Eagle Mountain Golf Club in Fountain Hills
Desert Mountain: Golfers’ Paradise
Desert Mountain, at the far northern tip of Scottsdale, is an 8,300-acre private golf community featuring:
- Six Jack Nicklaus Signature Courses
- Over 30 unique villages offering luxury homes
- Exclusive hiking trails for residents
For golf enthusiasts, Desert Mountain represents the pinnacle of high-end, golf-centric living.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
General Questions About North Scottsdale
Q: What part of the city is considered North Scottsdale?
A: North Scottsdale generally includes the area north of Shea Boulevard, covering several prestigious communities and spanning multiple zip codes.
Q: What zip codes are in North Scottsdale?
A: 85050, 85054, 85254, 85255, 85258, 85259, 85260, 85262, 85266, 85268, 85331, 85377.
Q: How does North Scottsdale compare to Paradise Valley?
A: While both offer luxury living, housing communities in Paradise Valley are more secluded, whereas North Scottsdale provides a mix of exclusivity and accessibility to shopping, dining, and golf.
Q: Is North Scottsdale good for education?
A: Yes! The area boasts top-rated schools, family-friendly parks, and guard-gated communities.
Q: What is the most expensive community in North Scottsdale?
A: Silverleaf, where estates regularly sell for $5M+ all the way up to approx. $30 million.
Q: What kind of homes are available in North Scottsdale?
A: North Scottsdale offers everything from luxury condos to sprawling estates, many featuring golf course views, mountain backdrops, and resort-style amenities.
Q: Is North Scottsdale still growing?
A: Yes! With new developments like Optima McDowell Mountain and Atavia, the area continues to expand and attract high-end buyers.
Q: How far is North Scottsdale from Phoenix Sky Harbor Airport?
A: About 25–35 minutes, depending on traffic.
Q: Is North Scottsdale a good place to retire?
A: Absolutely! With its mild winters, luxury golf courses, and high-end medical facilities, North Scottsdale is a top choice for retirees.
Q: What major employers are located in North Scottsdale?
A: The Scottsdale Airpark is a major business hub, home to over 60,000 jobs in industries like finance, healthcare, and tech.
Q: What are the main attractions in North Scottsdale?
A: Top attractions include TPC Scottsdale, Pinnacle Peak Park, Kierland Commons, Scottsdale Quarter, and the McDowell Sonoran Preserve.
Also Read: Helpful Links & The Basics About Living In Scottsdale
In Closing
North Scottsdale is a high-stakes game of luxury, lifestyle, and next-level living. And the winners? They live here. This is where desert tranquility shakes hands with high-end indulgence. This is where your morning hike comes with jaw-dropping mountain views and your evening wraps up with a five-star steakhouse experience. Because why settle? Think golf courses so pristine they could double as movie sets, boutiques stocked with labels you won’t find at your average mall, and a real estate market that’s as solid as the bedrock beneath Camelback Mountain. Whether you want the peace of a gated oasis or the pulse of nightlife just minutes away, North Scottsdale is the perfect contradiction. Serene yet alive. Exclusive yet welcoming. Modern yet timeless.
And let’s talk numbers. This area is growing fast. New developments, high property values, and an unshakable demand make it the spot for buyers and investors who know what’s up. Bottom line? North Scottsdale is a power move, wrapped in desert beauty and sealed with pure luxury. North Scottsdale remains a top choice for those who want the best when it comes to real estate in Scottsdale, as well as the perfect life in Scottsdale.