Scottsdale, Arizona is undoubtedly one of the best cities to call home. The thriving city is warm and sunny, offers an abundance of outdoor activities, and is centrally located.
Within Scottsdale, there are plenty of neighborhoods you’d love to call your own. The variety of exclusive enclaves offers world-class amenities, luxury features, and promises an excellent quality of life.
Check out our list of the best gated communities in Scottsdale below.
Scottsdale’s top gated communities
Scottsdale has a long list of great neighborhoods that cater to every type of lifestyle and price point, from golf course communities to enclaves in the center of the city. We’ve narrowed them down to some of the best ones:
DC Ranch
Nestled at the base of the McDowell Mountains, DC Ranch offers an exclusive desert lifestyle in the heart of Scottsdale, Arizona. The former cattle ranch is now one of the most prominent golf and residential communities in the city.
The master-planned community sprawls across 4,000 acres, suits every lifestyle and age group, and boasts incredible real estate properties surrounded by outstanding amenities. DC Ranch’s convenient location near the Loop 101 Freeway also provides residents with easy access to other areas like Paradise Valley, Carefree, and Fountain Hills.
Living in DC Ranch
When it comes to amenities, DC Ranch is peerless. Amenities are the reason DC Ranch is a top community.
Looking for outdoor adventure? DC Ranch offers over 33 miles of interconnected biking and walking trails. Right outside the community lies the Gateway Trailhead, a well-known hiking spot that has five different trails.
There are three shopping districts in the community: DC Ranch Crossing, Canyon Village, and Market Street. All boast unique shops, specialty stores, and culinary choices. DC Ranch also has community centers complete with pools, playgrounds, fitness facilities, and event rooms.
This enclave places a high value on connecting residents and helping them create lasting memories with family and friends. That’s why the community hosts a variety of fun and exciting events throughout the year. Here are some of the annual gatherings that residents look forward to:
- Food Truck Nights
- Comedy Nights
- Moonlight Movies
- Creative Arts
- Starlight Concert Series
DC Ranch real estate
Among the variety of real estate properties in DC are ranch-style single-family homes, luxury apartments, townhomes, patio homes, and condominiums. For a piece of property that’s tailored to suit your specific tastes and lifestyle, there are empty lots you can purchase so you can build from the ground up. Or choose from expansive custom homes designed by locally renowned architects.
There are four distinct villages in DC Ranch:
- Silverleaf Village features luxury villas and custom estates
- Country Club Village boasts custom home sites and custom single-detached homes or a private golf club
- Desert Park Village has a range of single-family homes to fit all lifestyles
- Desert Camp Village offers single-family homes and townhouses in an amenity-rich neighborhood
Silverleaf
The embodiment of true luxury, Silverleaf seamlessly blends luxury living with Scottsdale’s magnificent desert landscape. It’s considered as one of the most elite enclaves in Scottsdale and stands out from the rest with its beautifully landscaped neighborhoods, Mediterranean-inspired architecture, and incredible amenities.
Living in Silverleaf
Silverleaf shares the amenities of DC Ranch, including the DC Ranch Village Health Club and Spa, two community centers, and miles of walking and biking trails.
Out of the many attractions in and around the community, the Silverleaf Club stands out. The private and exclusive club offers a picturesque 18-hole championship golf course (designed by the legendary Tom Weidkopf) and a Mediterranean-style clubhouse with world-class facilities.
Silverleaf real estate
With the spectacular McDowell Mountains as backdrop and dramatic views of the Valley, the luxury homes for sale in Silverleaf are unlike any other. Whether it’s a custom or a semi-custom home site, the properties here exude style, elegance, and comfort.
Some of the most expensive real estate properties in Scottsdale are found in Silverleaf, with prices ranging from $3 million to $15 million. These luxury properties are typically located well within the village and on higher ground, giving homeowners more privacy and unobstructed views.
Windgate Ranch
Located at the foothills of the McDowell Mountains, Windgate Ranch is a luxury oasis in the heart of North Scottsdale. Its unique landscape, peaceful atmosphere, and strong sense of community have made it a popular choice among those looking to live in Scottsdale.
Living in Windgate Ranch
If you love the outdoors, then you’ll love living in Windgate Ranch. Enjoy year-round adventure with all the activities and recreational opportunities on offer, from hiking to horseback riding.
Windgate Ranch’s prime location makes it especially popular. The proximity to the McDowell Sonoran Preserve allows residents easy access to the park’s many trails. Also nearby are the top shopping districts like Kierland Commons, DC Ranch Marketplace, and Desert Ridge Marketplace.
To top it all, the 10,000-square foot community center makes it easy to enjoy resort-style pools, take to its various sports courts, and man the video game consoles within the facility.
Windgate Ranch real estate
The real estate options in Windgate Ranch are rich and varied. Semi-custom single-family homes built by award-winning home builders, the Toll Brothers, are luxuriously expansive at 2,200 to 6,300 square feet. All have a look of casual elegance combined with strong Spanish influences. The average price of a home for sale in Windgate Ranch is $1.4 million.
Desert Mountain
Established in 1986, Desert Mountain is undoubtedly one of the finest gated communities in Scottsdale. The community spans more than 8,000 acres and sits at an altitude of around 2,400 to 4,500 feet in the Sonoran Desert. Prestige comes from having the original master plan created by Taliesin Associated Architects, an architectural firm founded by the legendary Frank Lloyd Wright.
Living in Desert Mountain
From exciting, family-friendly activities in Desert Mountain to year-round golf, there’s no shortage of things to do here. The enclave has been hailed the “Best Golf Community” in the world and for good reason. The gated community has not one, but seven Jack Nicklaus-designed golf courses. These masterfully designed golf courses offer the ultimate golfing experience with its lush greens, rolling fairways, and elevation changes.
Desert Mountain’s convenient location puts residents close to various restaurants, shops, as well as Scottsdale’s thriving nightlife scene. Residents also have no trouble accessing central Scottsdale, downtown Phoenix, and its surrounding areas.
Desert Mountain real estate
Desert Mountain is divided into 35 villages, each one with its own distinct features and styles. Whether you’re looking for an affordable neighborhood or a luxury community, there’s a Desert Mountain village that will surely fit your needs and lifestyle.
Those looking to buy Desert Mountain real estate are spoilt for choice. Golf course properties, spacious cottages, and luxury condominiums are just some of the real estate options offered. No matter where you live, expect the breathtaking views afforded by Desert Mountain’s higher elevation.
Estancia
One of the premier gated communities in Scottsdale, Estancia is the epitome of luxurious living. This gated community is located at the border of Pinnacle Peak, a well-known landmark in the city. The magnificent mountain views, impressive custom homes, and excellent quality of life are what sets Estancia apart from the other gated communities in the area.
Living in Estancia
Scottsdale’s mild temperature and clear blue skies go hand-in-hand with the outdoor activities that Estancia offers. Golfing, hiking, and fun social events are just a few of the recreational activities you can expect here.
Estancia’s award-winning 18-hole golf course was designed by top golf course architect Tom Fazio, challenging players with sloping greens, wider fairways, and hidden bunkers.
Residents also have the opportunity to join the exclusive Estancia Club with an invitation-only membership. Enjoy the tennis court, swimming pool, spa, and fitness center through a Residential Membership.
Estancia real estate
When it comes to luxury, comfort, and exclusivity, the gated community of Estancia has it all. Enjoy the timeless appeal of breathtaking Tuscan and Mediterranean-style estates. These sought-after properties are spacious, stylish, and offer unobstructed views of Pinnacle Peak and the community’s spectacular golf course. The homes for sale in Estancia range from $2 million to around $7 million.
Terravita
Located in North Scottsdale, Terravita is a gated community that combines luxury living with the serenity of nature. Terravita gets its name from the Latin word terra (earth or land) and vita (life). The gated community was developed over the course of five years (1993 to 1998) by Del Web, one of the top builders for active adult communities.
Living in Terravita
Terravita offers an abundance of amenities to suit everyone’s lifestyle, from walking trails to putting greens. For avid walkers, Terravita has around seven miles of walking trails, many of which meander through several Terravita communities, past its 35,000-square foot clubhouse, and even circling the Sonoran Desert.
Terravita’s private country club is nothing short of impressive. The 18-hole golf course, in particular, promises an unforgettable experience. Golfers can enjoy nine tee combinations, a two-way driving range, and a putting green. The Terravita Clubhouse also provides plenty of facilities for dining and socializing.
Residents enjoy quick access to various malls, shops, and grocery stores. The Scottsdale Airport and the Loop 101 Freeway are just half an hour’s drive away.
Terravita real estate
Built to complement its natural surroundings, the homes in Terravita make use of skylights, large windows, and south-facing patios. One of the best things about owning a home in Terravita is the view. Each home is constructed to provide homeowners with incredible scenery, whether it’s the spectacular golf course or the majestic mountain vistas.
The real estate offerings in Terravita include spacious single-family homes with a variety of luxury amenities. Home sizes range from around 1,407 square feet to 3,370 square feet.
Gainey Ranch
Hailed as an “oasis in the desert,” Gainey Ranch is a premier residential community that offers luxury resort-style living. This highly desired community is a favorite among those who want a convenient location, an active lifestyle, and year-round golfing.
Living in Gainey Ranch
Owning a home in Gainey Ranch means enjoying the abundant perks the community offers. It’s home to the Hyatt Regency Scottsdale Resort, the Gainey Ranch Golf Club, and The Shops at Gainey Ranch.
The Gainey Ranch Golf Club, one of the top courses in the country, offers golfers a choice among three of its distinct 9-hole courses: The Arroyo, The Lakes, and The Dunes.
The community’s central location is just minutes away from downtown Scottsdale, which has an array of boutiques, popular restaurants, museums, and entertainment options.
Gainey Ranch real estate
The selection of properties in Gainey Ranch is diverse. From luxury condominiums to sprawling estates, there’s a home in Gainey Ranch with your name on it.
The community is home to 11 single-family home neighborhoods and 7 condominium communities. Single-family homes range from 2,000 to more than 7,000 square feet while the condominiums and townhomes start at 900 square feet and can extend to as much as 2,000 square feet.
Troon
Troon Village is the perfect retreat with its quiet surroundings and endless recreational opportunities, making it one of the most prestigious communities in North Scottsdale.
Living in Troon
At 2,400 to 2,800 feet above the Valley, Troon offers residents cooler temperatures and incredible views of Pinnacle Peak, the Sonoran Desert, and the McDowell Mountains.
While the peaceful and serene atmosphere is a draw, so is the fact that Troon is not too far away from major highways, shopping areas, and fine-dining restaurants
Plus, the best hiking spots are easily accessible in the nearby Pinnacle Peak and the McDowell Mountain Sonoran Preserve.
Troon real estate
Troon offers the finest luxury real estate in North Scottsdale. Take your pick of properties – from townhomes, custom homes, and semi-custom homes. All boast stylish features, spectacular views, and top-of-the-line conveniences.
The average price of a home for sale in Troon Village is around $1.4 million and can go as high as $4 million.
Troon North
Troon North is an 1,800-acre master planned community that counts as Scottsdale’s most prestigious. The community is known for its natural surroundings, outdoor recreational opportunities, and championship golf courses.
Living in Troon North
The Troon North Golf Club is among the best in the country, with its challenging design and stunning scenery. It offers two courses: The Monument Course and the Pinnacle Course. Both are great in their own right, having won numerous awards and recognitions.
Troon North’s multi-use trails are just as fantastic, taking hikers and biking enthusiasts on a scenic adventure through mesquite trees, tall saguaros, and huge boulders.
Troon North real estate
If you’re thinking about buying Troon North real estate, you’ll have a wide variety of properties to choose from. Custom homes, golf course homes, and other single-family properties are up for grabs. Resale townhomes are on the Troon North real estate market as well.
The Boulders
Located along the border of Scottsdale and Carefree, The Boulders is a thriving community that’s unique, centrally located, and one of the best gated communities in Scottsdale. The granite boulder formations from which the community gets its name are magnificent and distinctive, easily spotted on the golf course. The Boulders also shares a name with the Hilton-owned luxury resort and spa found within the community.
Living in The Boulders
Living in The Boulders means having all-around access to world-class amenities. A 2,000-square-foot fitness facility boasts state-of-the-art gym equipment. The Spa at The Boulders is a 33,000-square-foot retreat with a wide selection of relaxing treatments and rejuvenating facials.
The Boulders is also known for its two championship golf courses: The North Course and the South Course. While both of these golf courses can be challenging, golfers of all skill levels will be able to happily take on the links.
The Boulders real estate
The Boulders real estate is among the most highly sought-after because of its prime location, access to resort amenities, and gorgeous nature views. There are 12 neighborhoods inside The Boulders, the majority of which are located around the community’s two golf courses. Real estate options include villas, patio homes, resort-style homes, and multi-million dollar estates.
Explore the gated communities in Scottsdale, Arizona today
Invest in a lifetime of luxury and comfort when you buy a home for sale in one of Scottsdale’s premier gated communities.
We at The Matheson Team do more than help you find the perfect Scottsdale community. We’re here to deliver a smooth, easy, and memorable real estate experience.
Our team is composed of industry-recognized individuals who know the many Scottsdale communities inside and out. As your Scottsdale real estate expert, we can point you in the right direction based on your needs, lifestyle, and price point.
Begin your search for the best gated community today. Call The Matheson Team at 888.656.4830, or send a message to Don(at)ScottsdaleRealEstate(dotted)com.
