Quick answer
Scottsdale has 5 notable neighborhoods. Median 1BR rent is $1,550/mo citywide. Top picks: Old Town Scottsdale, Scottsdale Quarter, North Scottsdale.
Neighborhood Guide · 2026
Best Neighborhoods in Scottsdale
5 areas ranked by vibe, walkability, and affordability. Median 1BR rent: $1,550/mo. State income tax: 2.5%.
All 5 Neighborhoods
Old Town Scottsdale
Upscale, walkable, artsy. Galleries, high-end restaurants, spas. Median rent $1,800/month 1BR. Older demographic; touristy on weekends. Parking is difficult.
Scottsdale Quarter
Modern mixed-use with shopping, restaurants, offices. High Walk Score (72). Newer construction, younger professionals. Rents $1,600-1,900/month 1BR.
North Scottsdale
Ultra-wealthy gated communities and new construction. Golf-course living, country clubs. Homes start $800K, median $1.2M+. Car-dependent.
Central Scottsdale
Upscale suburban. Golf courses, resorts, spas. New homes $650-900K. 10-15 minute drive to Old Town. Families and retirees.
South Scottsdale
More affordable, transitional. Lower-income families, service workers. Homes $400-500K; rents $1,200-1,500/month. Less walkable.
Scottsdale at a Glance
Median 1BR
$1,550
Median home
$625K
Walk score
62/100
State tax
2.5%
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best neighborhoods in Scottsdale?
Scottsdale's top neighborhoods include Old Town Scottsdale, Scottsdale Quarter, North Scottsdale. Upscale, walkable, artsy. Galleries, high-end restaurants, spas. Median rent $1,800/month 1BR. Older demographic; touristy on weekends. Parking is difficult.
What is the safest neighborhood in Scottsdale?
Scottsdale safety varies by area. For up-to-date crime data by neighborhood, check the Scottsdale police department's public crime map. Generally, established residential areas with lower vacancy rates tend to have lower crime rates.
How much does it cost to rent in Scottsdale?
City-wide median 1BR rent in Scottsdale is $1,550/mo, 2BR is $2,050/mo. Prices vary by neighborhood — central and trendy areas run above the median, outer residential areas below.