In the mid-19th century, the Sonoran Desert town of Cave Creek was a stagecoach stop for miners and ranchers, and though it's far more modern today, some of that Old West feel remains. Cave Creek's multi-acre parcels are a big draw for horse owners, while in the neighboring town of Carefree, home prices are a bit higher, and horses aren't generally allowed. “People define their differences as cowboys and caviar,” says longtime area resident Robert Pfeiffer, a Realtor with Coldwell Banker Realty. “Carefree is a little bit more sophisticated, and people who live in Cave Creek are often seen as more down home and salt of the earth.”
Cave Creek is set just north of Scottsdale, and while many of its roughly 5,000 residents are retirees, the area's well-rated schools and convenience also attract families with young children. “Here you’re in the heart of the Sonoran Desert, with the beauty of the mountains and accessibility to hiking," Pfeiffer says, "but you’re also not far from amenities and some of the higher end shopping areas like Scottsdale Quarter." Many residents rely on their cars (or horses) to get around, but motorcycles are a big deal here, too; every April, the popular Bike Week brings a horde of hogs to town.
Bikers bring energy and excitement to the scenic streets of Cave Creek, Arizona.
Horses are a cherished part of Cave Creek’s rich Western heritage and lifestyle.
Cave Creek is full of western style gift shops that attracts people from many places.
Experience the spirit of the desert in Cave Creek, a city full of charm and history.
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Hiking, horseback riding and proximity to popular Scottsdale golf courses
Tucked between two mountains on the edge of Tonto National Forest, Cave Creek offers plenty of opportunities for hiking and horseback riding. Spur Cross Ranch Conservation area spans over 2,000 acres that include Elephant Mountain and more than 5 miles of trails, and the steep hike up Black Mountain offers panoramic views of the Valley and beyond. The popular Go John Trail winds through the 3,000-acre Cave Creek Regional Park, retracing the steps of gold miners who traveled the same foothills in the mid-1800s.
Cave Creek is also home to the semi-private Rancho Manana Golf Club, which includes an 18-hole par-70 course and a driving range surrounded by desert and mountain foothills. “It’s one of the most picturesque golf courses, just absolutely gorgeous,” Pfeiffer said, adding that residents aren’t far from some of Scottsdale’s most popular and exclusive courses.
Hiking Black Mountain is a rewarding challenge with stunning desert vistas in Cave Creek.
Horses at horseback riding ranch in Cave Creek neighborhood
Rancho Manana Golf Club is a scenic golf course in historic Cave Creek.
Overton trail at Cave Creek Regional Park in Cave Creek neighborhood
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More variety in housing than neighboring Carefree
As of late 2024, the median single-family home price in Cave Creek is about $1 million, compared to $1.45 million in Carefree. Nicola Morton, a longtime area resident and Realtor with Realty One Group, says this price difference is due to Cave Creek's larger inventory and variety of homes. “You’ve got ranches and horse properties in Cave Creek, but you’ve also got homes in your average subdivisions on smaller lots,” she says.
Some homes in Cave Creek date back to the mid-20th century, but most were built between the 1990s and 2020s. “There’s a lot of new construction and a lot of infill,” says Morton. Most homes here sit on an acre or two, but some lots sprawl anywhere from 5 acres to more than 50. Ranches and modest single-family homes can be found almost everywhere, while townhouses and condos can be found near downtown. According to Pfeiffer, residents who live in Cave Creek proper refer to themselves as “Creekers,” differing from those in planned subdivisions on the outskirts of town with Cave Creek addresses.
Custom-made home in Cave Creek neighborhood
Cave Creek homes are spread out on spacious lots, providing a sense of your personal retreat.
Pueblo revival townhomes at Village at Surrey Hills in Cave Creek neighborhood
Ranch properties are scattered around the Cave Creek neighborhood
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Saloons, bull riding and local shops and eateries downtown
Downtown Cave Creek transports residents and tourists back in time to the Old West. The downtown stretch of Cave Creek Road is lined with locally owned shops and galleries that sell Native American-made art, handmade jewelry and western wear, and there are also plenty of popular eateries, saloons and biker bars. “Cave Creek has more bars and entertainment than Carefree,” Morton says. “It’s more rock and roll.”
Institutions like The Buffalo Chip Saloon and Steakhouse and Harold’s Cave Creek Corral offer live music, line dancing and hearty meals in a rustic western setting. “On Friday night you’ll see tourist buses coming in and dropping off 60 people for dinner at Harolds, and then they’ll walk across the street for live bull riding at the Chip,” says longtime area resident Lisa Stine, a Realtor with Coldwell Banker Realty. Harold’s was once a stagecoach stop, and it’s still common to see horses tied up in front at the hitching post. “Everybody loves Harold’s," says Stine. "People visiting from out of state always bring Harold’s up and say, ‘I can’t believe how much food you get for your money.’” While residents head to the Buffalo Chip for late-night fun, just as many come on Sundays for Church at the Chip, with outdoor non-denominational worship services.
The Roadhouse is a local favorite in Cave Creek for entertainment and dining.
Cave Creek Cowboy Co offers everything you need to live your best Western lifestyle.
Discover timeless pieces with deep cultural roots at Native American Gallery in Cave Creek.
Janey's Coffee is a cozy café with tasty appetizers that features live music in Cave Creek.
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An annual rodeo and bike week
Since 1976, Cave Creek Rodeo Days has been held in March, featuring a parade, professional rodeo shows, bull riding and mutton busting. And every April, the Hideaway Grill and Roadhouse hosts Cave Creek’s Bike Week, which is one of the largest annual gatherings of motorcyclists in the U.S. “People come from all over the country,” says Sandra Esmay, an area resident and associate broker with Coldwell Banker Realty. “You drive down Cave Creek Road and there’s nothing but motorcycles, there’s hundreds of them. There are two lanes on either side of the median, but during that week, they block it down to where it’s just one lane on each side so that the motorcycles can park sideways.” Attendees can enjoy bike shows, charity rides and camraderie with fellow enthusiasts.
Career-focused courses in Cave Creek Unified School District
Students are served by the Cave Creek Unified School District, which earns an overall A-minus rating from Niche. The district has fewer than 5,000 students between its high school, middle school and five elementary schools, and each elementary school has a specialized area of focus, ranging from foreign language to horsemanship. High schoolers can take part in a variety of hands-on career-focused classes or enroll in the Academy of Excellence online learning option.
Bella Vista College Prep is located in Pinnacle Peak.
In Anthem, Boulder Creek High School Track Club sprints towards victory and glory.
Uncover the possibilities that learning can bring at Gavilan Peak School in Anthem.
Building a strong educational community at New River Elementary.
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A doable commute to Phoenix and Scottsdale
Valley Metro buses do not serve Cave Creek, so residents are heavily car dependent. While Cave Creek can feel far-removed, it's within commuting distance to Valley employers, and Loop 101 is about 15 miles south, connecting residents to hubs throughout the metro area. Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport is about 35 miles away, which offers nonstop flights to 120 domestic and 25 international destinations. With Abrazo Cave Creek Hospital, locals don’t need to commute for medical attention.
Lower rates of violent and property crime than the state and national level
Cave Creek has its own town marshal, and the city is served by the Maricopa County Sheriff’s office, which has an outpost in town. The rate of violent and property crime in Cave Creek is lower than at the state and national level. According to Crime Grade, the annual rate of violent crime per 1,000 residents is 2.38, and the rate of property crime is 10.1 per 1,000 residents. According to Crime Grade, 90% of all other U.S. cities experience more violent crime and 92% experience more property crime.
Written By
Lauren Schott
Photography Contributed By
Alex Medina
Video By
Kellan Beaver
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
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GreatSchools:
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On average, homes in Cave Creek, AZ sell after 68 days on the market compared to the national average of 53 days. The median sale price for homes in Cave Creek, AZ over the last 12 months is $825,000, up 1% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Craving space, character, and real desert vibes? This Santa Fe-inspired Cave Creek retreat sits on 2.5 acres and blends timeless charm with smart efficiency—yes, Tesla solar is included. Inside, you'll love the vaulted, beam-accented ceilings, warm Saltillo tile, and multiple cozy fireplaces. Need flexibility? There's a separate guest house (approx. 757 sq ft; buyer to verify) for visitors,
Luxury desert living on a premium golf course lot with breathtaking mountain views in sought-after Cave Creek. This beautifully positioned home backs to the fairway, offering unobstructed vistas of the lush greens and surrounding Sonoran landscape with iconic Arizona sunsets. Enjoy privacy, open skies, and seamless indoor-outdoor living perfect for entertaining. Spacious layout with light-filled
Reimagined Mediterranean-inspired custom home featuring 5 bedrooms, 3 baths, a main-floor office, and a 3 car garage. Set on over half an acre, the property offers flexibility to add an ADU for guests, a workshop, or multigenerational living. The newly redesigned chef's kitchen & bar anchor the open-concept layout with custom cabinetry, sleek fixtures, & premium Café appliances, perfect for
Perched on a private 2+ acre lot in Carefree, this architectural masterpiece spans 5,000 sqft of sleek, luminous living space with 4 bedrooms, 5 bathrooms, and a 3-car garage. Designed with precision and elegance, every inch whispers refinement and innovation. Step into a living area where vistas meet design: expansive floor-to-ceiling sliding glass doors sweep in desert and city light panoramas,
Beautifully remodeled modern luxury home. Over an acre, No-HOA and low taxes. Features soaring ceilings, wood-look tile, a showstopper kitchen with stainless steel appliances, granite counters, roll-outs, and an island with seating. Enjoy a cozy wood-burning fireplace, a luxurious primary suite with patio access, jetted tub, dual vanities, and walk-in closet. Junior suite provides pool access,
Like-new, single level home in the desirable Galloway Ridge community in Cave Creek- barely lived in and beautifully upgraded. This stunning 3- bedroom plus office features an additional flexible workspace, ideal for working from home or hobby area. The kitchen stands out with quartz countertops, a 12 foot island, gas cooktop, wine refrigerator and richly appointed cabinets with soft close doors,
Welcome to 29606 N Tatum Boulevard 233 in Cave Creek, where you'll find your beautiful home in the highly desired gated community of Terra Vista in Tatum Ranch! We are offering SPECIAL FINANCING on this wonderful home to help you make your dream come true! This primo location puts you close to everything - just minutes from the 51, 101, and I-17, only a 10-minute drive to Desert Ridge Marketplace
PRICED WELL BELOW RECENT APPRAISAL! REMODELED Feels like country living on 1.3 acres, but close to great shopping and dining. County island no HOA! 4 large bedrooms + den or gym with separate entrance. Enter a lovely foyer with living room access and cozy fireplace. Flex family room/dining. Large kitchen with lots of cabinets, granite counters, breakfast bar, pantry, island & new stainless
Craving space, character, and real desert vibes? This Santa Fe-inspired Cave Creek retreat sits on 2.5 acres and blends timeless charm with smart efficiency—yes, Tesla solar is included. Inside, you'll love the vaulted, beam-accented ceilings, warm Saltillo tile, and multiple cozy fireplaces. Need flexibility? There's a separate guest house (approx. 757 sq ft; buyer to verify) for visitors,
Experience elevated desert living in the prestigious gated enclave of Dove Valley Ranch. This spacious two-story residence offers 5 bedrooms, 3 baths and approximately 4,113 sq. ft. of thoughtfully designed living space on an 8,750 sq. ft. premium lot backing to quiet natural open space, creating a sense of privacy rarely found in community settings.Step inside to an inviting floor plan with
This is your opportunity to own 25 acres of county land in the hills between Carefree, Cave Creek & Scottsdale with seller financing. Build your own estate in the middle of the exclusive homes surrounding it. Adjacent to Desert Mountain and Gold Mountain with views to make you say AHHH! Check the comps. You'll see this one is priced right! DON'T WAIT UNTIL THE ROADS COME IN AND THE PRICES DOUBLE.
Situated in a peaceful gated enclave of nine luxury homes, this sprawling single-story residence sits on an expansive acre-plus lot, offering privacy and a refined modern aesthetic. Upon entering through the gated courtyard, you are greeted by the breathtaking foyer and living room that showcase this exquisite home that was completely transformed in 2021. A wide-open layout and desirable split
Experience elevated desert living in this beautifully reimagined 7,340 sq ft Cave Creek estate. Completely remodeled inside and out, the home blends custom craftsmanship with modern luxury, beginning with a newly designed courtyard featuring custom iron gates, stained concrete, stacked stone accents, and refined desert landscaping. Custom iron double doors open to warm stone archways, updated
New Custom Home to be completed January '26 by Signature Homes. This 4,174 sq ft modern masterpiece sits on over an acre and features 4 bedrooms, 4.5 baths, and a 3-car garage with a circular drive and striking curb appeal plus a 42'/800 sq ft Luxury RV Garage! Built w/ exceptional quality-2x6 construction, upgraded insulation, Energy Star Low-E windows, and high-efficiency HVAC-this home
This is your opportunity to own 25 acres of county land in the hills between Carefree, Cave Creek & Scottsdale with seller financing. Build your own estate in the middle of the exclusive homes surrounding it. Adjacent to Desert Mountain and Gold Mountain with views to make you say AHHH! Check the comps. You'll see this one is priced right! See photos for road info. DON'T WAIT UNTIL THE ROADS COME
Welcome to the desirable community of Tatum Ranch! Easy access to all Cave Creek and Carefree have to offer as well as short travel south to the 101 and 51 freeways, dining, shopping and nightlife at Desert Ridge. Also close to top rated schools, golfing, hiking and biking trails. This location is 10++. If the location wasn't enough, wait until you see this house. This 3 bed, 2.5 bath home also
Situated near North Phoenix, Arizona, our pet-friendly one and two bedroom apartment homes blend charming features with sophisticated details for an inviting atmosphere. With a resort-style swimming pool, soothing spa, and scenic grilling area, our amenities invite you to unwind and indulge every day of the week. Stunning desert vistas coupled with vacation-inspired amenities make Azure Creek an
Check out this beautiful single family home located in the desirable Cave Creek community of Tatum Ranch - available for immediate move-in! Home consists of 4 bedrooms, 2 full baths, and approx. 2200 square feet of living space + a sparkling pool and green space in back. Solar is also included to help keep utility costs low. Other features include an open floor-plan, gas fireplace, stainless
Enjoy the convenience of an on-site laundry care center and take advantage of all that Cave Creek has to offer. Our professional on-site management will assist you in meeting all of your needs. At The Village, you'll feel right at home. We are a clean, quiet community and within walking distance to Historical Cave Creek and have shopping and dining close by. Come visit us today!
Furnished 4 bed 2 bath with heated resort style pool, outdoor fireplace, jacuzzi and water feature. Available long term or short term. Can be rented unfurnished for 12 months. Open kitchen with all appliances and cookware and breakfast bar. Large master suite with his/hers sinks, and walk in shower for two. Pool table, game room, darts, and bar. Recently remodeled with new furniture and
Christopher SiedentopPreferred Property Consultants LLC
Feel at home in this 3-bedroom, 2-bath home overlooking the 2nd hole of the Dove Valley Ranch Golf Course, facing west for amazing sunsets. This home is all on one level, with no stairs.The great room boasts new porcelain wood-grain tile, modern cabinets, and quartz countertops. The master bedroom offers a king-size bed, large flat screen TV, attached master bath, walk-in closet, and a slider
Cave Creek Rental on Black Mountain!!! Now available: 3 bed, 2 bath home with a 2 car garage, private pool, and incredible mountain views. Plus an extra bonus room off the garage. Perfect for a gym, studio, or gear room. Minutes from Buffalo Chip, Harrold's, Janey's Coffee, and Tonto. Pets welcome!
Welcome to this luxurious 5-bedroom home in Cave Creek, AZ, where every amenity is at your fingertips for an unforgettable vacation. Feel at home with expansive backyard space, a private pool, a fire pit, and ample parking. The main house and guest house together offer 5 bedrooms and 4 bathrooms, comfortably hosting up to 12 guests. Enjoy direct outdoor access from several bedrooms, a fully
Enjoy the beauty of the Sonoran Desert in this spacious 3 bedroom home in charming Cave Creek with stunning Black Mountain views. Set on over an acre of landscaped desert, this private retreat is tucked back from a quiet neighborhood by a long driveway for maximum privacy. Features include a pool, outdoor patios, open floor plan, full kitchen, home office, flat screen TV, and 2.5 baths with walk
Nestled in the heart of Cave Creek, Arizona, this stunning home offers breathtaking views of Black Mountain and is just a short walk from the hiking trail. With 4 bedrooms and 3 bathrooms, this spacious residence features an open floor plan, a 2-car garage, and RV parking. Feel at home as you relax in the private resort-style pool with a tranquil waterfall, perfect for entertaining and enjoying
DON'T MISS THIS Tatum Ranch home backing to Tatum Ranch golf course with mountain views from the resort style yard and second level patio. Lower level master bedroom, plenty of additional bedrooms for your family! Light and bright floor plan with plenty of space to stretch out in one of Tatum Ranch's largest homes. Amazing Cave Creek location with privacy, pool, spa, and grass area. $45 credit
Feel at home in Casa Saguaro, a single-story home with 4 bedrooms and 2.5 baths, accommodating up to 10 guests.This home features flat-screen TVs in the family room, master bedroom, two guest bedrooms, and game room. The game room includes a TV viewing area, cocktail table, and pool table. Enjoy the stainless steel BBQ, outdoor dining, comfortable seating around the outdoor fireplace, and
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