Relocating to Scottsdale

Why people are moving to Scottsdale in 2026

Scottsdale continues to be one of the fastest-growing premium destinations in the American Southwest. The combination of 299 days of sunshine, Arizona’s 2.5% flat income tax, world-class golf, Mayo Clinic-anchored healthcare and a thriving North Scottsdale tech corridor has attracted a steady stream of California, Pacific Northwest and Midwest transplants over the last five years.

Choosing the right neighborhood

Scottsdale is geographically long — it spans 31 miles north to south. Most luxury buyers focus on three distinct zones:

• North Scottsdale (85255, 85262): Home to Grayhawk, DC Ranch, Troon North, Silverleaf and the Boulders. The center of gravity for premier golf real estate.
• Central Scottsdale (85251, 85253): Walkable Old Town, Paradise Valley adjacency, mid-century modern and Gainey Ranch. More urban feel.
• South Scottsdale: Closer to ASU and downtown Phoenix, lower price points, increasingly hip dining and breweries.

Schools, healthcare & daily life

Scottsdale Unified School District is rated A+ overall. The North Scottsdale corridor is anchored by BASIS Scottsdale, Pinnacle High and Notre Dame Prep — consistently among Arizona’s top-performing schools. Healthcare is anchored by the Mayo Clinic’s 250-acre Scottsdale campus, with HonorHealth Shea and HonorHealth Thompson Peak nearby.

Taxes & cost of living

Arizona enacted a 2.5% flat state income tax in 2023, making it one of the most tax-friendly states for high earners. Property tax is moderate (~0.62% effective rate). There is no state estate or inheritance tax. Sales tax in Scottsdale is 8.05%.

When to visit before you buy

Most relocating buyers fly in twice: once in February (peak season, perfect weather, Phoenix Open energy) and once in July (the brutal honesty test — if you love it in 112°F summer, you’ll love it year-round).