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If you’re looking for an apartment to rent in Scottsdale, AZ, you might be overwhelmed by the many options available. Scottsdale is a vibrant and diverse city brimming with culture and entertainment. But not all neighborhoods are created equal. Some might suit your lifestyle, budget and preferences better than others. To help you narrow down your choices, here are some of the top neighborhoods for renters in Scottsdale.
McCormick Ranch
This is one of the largest and most established neighborhoods in Scottsdale, with over 10,000 homes and apartments. It’s also one of the greenest, with miles of trails, parks, lakes and golf courses. McCormick Ranch is ideal for families and outdoor enthusiasts who want to enjoy nature and recreation.
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The views of the surrounding mountains and pristine lakes nearby will charm any nature lover, while the neighborhood’s village-like feeling is the perfect background for a slower-paced lifestyle. Plus, those calling McCormick Ranch home also have access to great healthcare services and excellent schools, as well as plenty of shopping centers and restaurants.
Downtown Scottsdale
If you want to be in the heart of the action, downtown Scottsdale is the place for you. This neighborhood is home to the famous Old Town Scottsdale, where you can find art galleries, museums, boutiques and nightlife. The area is pedestrian-friendly, so you’ll be able to get to where you need to be by foot.
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Living here also means you get to enjoy Scottsdale’s waterfront and take relaxing walks along the canal in a scenic setting. If you’re a fashion lover, you can drop by Scottsdale Fashion Square — one of the largest malls in the country — located in the northwestern corner of the neighborhood. Downtown Scottsdale also offers a variety of housing options, from historic homes to modern condos and lofts. You’ll never run out of things to do and see in this lively and walkable neighborhood.
North Scottsdale
This is one of the most affluent and upscale neighborhoods in Scottsdale, with luxury homes and apartments that offer stunning views of the mountains and desert. North Scottsdale is also known for its high-end shopping, dining, and entertainment options, as well as its golf courses and resorts. If you’re looking for a prestigious and peaceful neighborhood with easy access to amenities, North Scottsdale might be your best bet.
Gainey Ranch
If you want to infuse some vacation vibes into your everyday life, then check out this upscale neighborhood where residents enjoy a resort-like lifestyle. Gainey Ranch is a gated community that features elegant homes and apartments surrounded by lush landscaping and water features. It also has a golf club, a spa, a fitness center and a tennis court. Gainey Ranch is perfect for those who want to enjoy luxury and privacy in a serene setting.
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Paradise Valley
Living in Paradise Valley is like… living in paradise. Not only because this is the neighborhood’s official name, but also because that’s exactly what it looks like. Paradise Valley renters love the polished rural vibe and breathtaking desert views. No wonder this place also goes by the nickname “Beverly Hills of the Southwest.”
This neighborhood is located between Scottsdale and Phoenix, and it’s one of the most exclusive areas in the state. Paradise Valley boasts some of the most beautiful homes and estates in Arizona, as well as some of the best views of Camelback Mountain and Mummy Mountain. Paradise Valley is ideal for those who want to live in a secluded and tranquil oasis with easy access to both cities.
South Scottsdale
This neighborhood is one of the most affordable and diverse areas in Scottsdale, with a mix of older homes and newer apartments. South Scottsdale is also close to Tempe and Arizona State University, making it popular among students and young professionals. It also offers plenty of cultural attractions, such as the Scottsdale Museum of Contemporary Art, the Scottsdale Center for the Performing Arts and the Scottsdale Stadium.
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If you’re a young adult just starting out your career, South Scottsdale is the place to be. You’ll have plenty of job opportunities as well as entertainment options to relax after the daily grind.
DC Ranch
If you’re the active and social type of renter, DC Ranch might fit you like a glove. This is a master-planned community that offers a variety of housing options, from condos and townhomes to single-family homes and custom estates. DC Ranch is located at the foot of the McDowell Mountains and is designed to blend in with the natural environment, with open spaces, trails and parks. It also provides some of the best amenities in Scottsdale, including a community center, a golf club, a market street and a village center.
DC Ranch is suitable for those who want to live in a friendly and active neighborhood with a sense of community. It even has its own giving-back program — DC Ranch Gives, making it easier for members of the community to engage with each other and create meaningful relationships.
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Alexandra Both is a senior real estate writer and research analyst with RentCafe. She brings over almost 10 years of real estate writing experience, having served as a senior editor at Commercial Property Executive and Multi-Housing News. A seasoned journalist, Alexandra has worked across print, online, and broadcast media. Her work has been featured in a variety of prominent outlets, including The New York Times, The Guardian, USA Today, and Architectural Digest. She holds a B.A. in Journalism and an M.A. in Community Development.
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