Located on the southwestern outskirts of Phoenix, in the foothills of the South Mountains, suburban Ahwatukee (pronounced Ah-wah-TOO-kee) has been expanding exponentially since the early 1970s, but still maintains its natural desert terrain, which attracts hikers, mountain bikers and equestrians. Families with young children and retirees from all over the Valley are also drawn here by Ahwatukee's scenic views, planned housing developments, good schools and abundant shopping and dining.
“Years ago, my husband said to me, ‘Do you know there’s life on the other side of the freeway?’ You really don’t have to ever leave because everything you need is right here,” says Pam Eagan, an associate broker with Realty Executives International who has lived in Ahwatukee for over 40 years. “This is a very tight-knit community with a lot of family-owned restaurants and an excellent school system. The population is growing because it’s a great place to raise a family; people who grew up here stay here. I thank God every day I moved to Ahwatukee and raised my three kids here, and now that I have grandkids, I wouldn’t want them to live anywhere else.”
Ahwatukee's welcoming neighborhood offers a sanctuary of comfort and camaraderie.
Capture breathtaking sunset views from Dobbins Lookout near Ahwatukee.
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Holidays and beloved community events connect neighbors year after year
According to Eagan, a large part of what makes Ahwatukee so great for families with kids is that so many residents go all-out for community events. “The holidays here are a big deal,” she says. “People bus their kids into Ahwatukee for Halloween because lots of people give out the full-sized candy bars. On my street, we sit out with cocktails and hors d'oeuvres and have buckets full of candy to give out to the thousands of kids who show up.”
Other festivities throughout the year serve as major points of pride among Ahwatukee residents. “We have an annual Easter parade that is just phenomenal," Eagan says. "Everybody comes from all over.” Following this parade, the Spring Fling Festival and Craft Fair is held at Ahwatukee Community Park, featuring live entertainment and kids' activities. The annual Festival of Lights is another big draw. “Volunteers put up millions of little, tiny white lights on the saguaro cactuses and in all the trees in the median,” says Eagan. The kick-off party for this illuminating event is held at Desert Foothills Park the Saturday before Thanksgiving. “There’s a huge stage featuring local talent all day long, and there’s all kinds of local crafts vendors” Eagan says. “Even the Tupperware lady is there.” Local food vendors join the mix, and the beer garden serves drinks from local breweries. “As the sun is setting, you hear what sounds like a million Harley-Davidsons. They come down from the top of the hill all decorated and lighted, and Santa and Mrs. Claus are the last ones to come down in the sidecar.”
Highly rated learning in Kyrene and Tempe Union High School districts
Students here can attend Kyrene district schools from pre-kindergarten through 8th grade, including Kyrene de los Cerritos Leadership Academy for elementary school and Kyrene Altadeña Middle, both rated A by Niche. Teens can continue to Tempe Union High district schools like the B-plus-rated Mountain Pointe High, which offers area-renowned fine arts and athletic programs. There are also several private, charter and parochial schools in the area.
Kyrene de los Cerritos School entrance.
Explore a world of opportunities and enrichment at Kyrene Altadeña Middle School
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Hiking, biking, horseback riding and panoramic views in South Mountain Park
At over 16,000 acres, South Mountain Park is the largest municipal park in the United States, with over 50 miles of hiking, biking and equestrian trails of varying elevations across its three mountain ranges. The highest point in the park is the roughly 2,330-foot Dobbins Lookout, accessible by both trails and Summit Road, and providing panoramic views of the Valley. At the base of this mountain, Desert Foothills Park hosts several community events in its open greenspace, including the annual Spring Concert in the Park series. Residents can find a playground and lighted sports facilities here, as well as at other community parks like the east side's nearly 45-acre Mountain Vista Park, which also includes a splash pad. Local golfers can tee off on the 18-hole courses at the Foothills Golf Club, Ahwatukee Country Club or Ahwatukee Lakes Golf Club.
Ahwatukee's equestrian community shares a love for horses and the serene beauty of riding.
Ahwatukee's dog-friendly community offers tail-wagging adventures for pups of all sizes.
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An abundance of master-planned communities, with luxury estates in the foothills
Homes in Ahwatukee are generally found within small master-planned communities, some designed for residents aged 55 and older, and most offering their own private recreation centers, swimming pools and tennis courts; most residential streets are lined with wide sidewalks, and neighbors take pride in their well-maintained, often low-water landscaping. Many local houses date back to the late 1970s and '80s, but there are also lots of 20th- and 21st-century builds; most have one or two stories and feature Spanish-style details like neutral-colored stucco exteriors and clay-tile roofs. Modest condominiums and townhouses start at around $200,000, while larger models in gated, resort-style communities can go for over $800,000. Detached single-family homes start at around $325,000, though sprawling, custom estates set on half-acre to two-acre lots in the mountain foothills can go for as much as $5 million.
Live the life of luxury in Ahwatukee's prestigious and highly coveted residences.
Ahwatukee's condos offer modern living with amenities and convenience.
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Chain restaurants, locally owned eateries and popular retail and grocery stores on the east side
Residents do most of their shopping and dining on the neighborhood’s east side near Interstate 10. Along Ray Road, locals can find plenty of chain restaurants and big-box retailers like Target, as well as a JC Penney department store; grocery options include a Sprouts Farmers Market and a Sam's Club. Ray Road loops south to connect with East Chandler Boulevard, which is lined with grocery stores like Trader Joe’s and Safeway, as well as a Kohl’s and several chain restaurants.
There are also plenty of local eateries in Ahwatukee. South-of-the-border hotspots include Arriba Mexican Grill, popular for its craft margaritas and happy hour specials, and Los Taquitos, a go-to for breakfast burritos and Taco Tuesday discounts. Along Warner Road, local favorites like Nello’s Pizzeria and Italian Kitchen serve wood-fired pizza and fresh pasta alongside craft beer and cocktails, and each Sunday, the Ahwatukee Farmers Market sells fresh produce and locally sourced meat.
Treat yourself to the cheesy goodness of Nello's Ahwatukee's delicious pizza pies.
Discover the difference of in-house tortillas at On The Border in Ahwatukee.
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Convenient commutes via Interstate 10 and the 202 Freeway
The neighborhood is bordered south by State Route 202 and east by Interstate 10, so residents have quick, convenient access to downtown Phoenix (18 miles via I-10), Chandler (14 miles via AZ-202), Tempe (17 miles via I-10) and other Valley destinations. Valley Metro bus stops can be found between East Ray Road and East Chandler Boulevard, also connecting residents with downtown and surrounding areas. For emergency and specialized medical care, the Chandler Regional Medical Center is roughly 12 miles east, and Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport is less than 15 miles north via I-10.
Explore the beauty of Ahwatukee's landscapes with fellow bikers in the community.
Dobbins Lookout offers unparalleled views of the surrounding landscapes near Ahwatukee.
GreatSchools:
The GreatSchools Rating helps parents compare schools within a state based on a variety of school quality indicators and provides a helpful picture of how effectively each school serves all of its students. Ratings are on a scale of 1 (below average) to 10 (above average) and can include test scores, college readiness, academic progress, advanced courses, equity, discipline and attendance data. We also advise parents to visit schools, consider other information on school performance and programs, and consider family needs as part of the school selection process.
View GreatSchools Rating Methodology
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
Melissa Massey,
an experienced agent in this neighborhood.
Parks in this Area
Lakewood Playground
Fishing
Trails
Playground
Sun Ray Park
Baseball/Softball
Basketball
Grills
Desert Foothills Park
Baseball/Softball
Basketball
Picnic Area
Vista Canyon Park
Baseball/Softball
Basketball
Grills
Western Star Park
Basketball
Picnic Area
Tennis
Mountain Vista Park
Baseball/Softball
Basketball
Grills
Pecos Park
Basketball
Dog Park
Football
Transit
Airport
Phoenix Sky Harbor International
48 min drive
Bus
Chandler Bl & 36th St
Bus
50th St & Thistle Landing Dr (Flag Zone)
Bus
Chandler Bl & 50th St
Bus
Ray Rd & 44th St
Bus
Thistle Landing Dr & 48th St (Flag Zone)
Bus
Warner Elliot Lp & 44th St
Bus
Knox Rd & 44th St
Crime and Safety
1 - Low Crime, 10 - High Crime
Ahwatukee
US
Homicide
3
4
Sexual Assault
4
4
Assault with Weapon
3
4
Robbery
3
4
Burglary
4
4
Motor Vehicle Theft
4
4
Larceny
4
4
Crime Score
4
4
Source: WhatIsMyCrimeRisk.com
Ahwatukee Demographics and Home Trends
On average, homes in Ahwatukee, Phoenix sell after 55 days on the market compared to the national average of 70 days. The median sale price for homes in Ahwatukee, Phoenix over the last 12 months is $383,500, down 4% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Beautifully updated 4-bedroom home in a quiet Ahwatukee neighborhood. Bright, open layout with vaulted ceilings and remodeled kitchen. Private backyard oasis with sparkling pool, lush hedges, and large covered patio. Spacious 3-car garage. Many recent updates and move-in ready. Ideal location near top-rated schools, trails, dining, and easy freeway access. Pride of ownership throughout—don't miss
Welcome to your fully remodeled dream home in the heart of Ahwatukee Foothills! This stunning residence offers breathtaking panoramic mountain views t/o. Everything has been thoughtfully updated from top to bottom w/premium finishes & attention to detail in this 4-bed, 2.5-bath masterpiece. Inside enjoy newer wood-look laminate flooring on main level & plush carpeting upstairs. Fresh interior &
Welcome to Mountain Park Ranch! This well-maintained home offers three bedrooms and two baths, with fresh paint inside and out.Step outside to your private backyard and enjoy a sparkling pool with a water feature. The neighborhood features a community pool, tennis courts, walking paths, parks, and small mountain views.The home features its original kitchen and flooring—ready for
Elegantly upgraded and meticulously maintained Foothills Club West home! Cherry wood flooring and plantation shutters in main living areas. Ceiling fans throughout. Built-in speaker system. Large eat-in kitchen boasts high-end smart touchpad refrigerator, s/s appliances, built-in wine refrigerator, 42'' cabinets, granite countertops, spacious island w/ breakfast bar. 2-way fireplace between
YOUR PRIVATE TROPICAL OASIS RETREAT!! **RARE HUGE** private Quarter-Acre back yard secluded from neighbors with towering palms and lush greenery. NOTHING like this anywhere else in Phoenix... Welcome to your brilliant private retreat in the heart of Gosnell's jewel, the stunning Pointe South Mountain community! You'll fall in LOVE before you even enter this beautiful home, nestled on one of
Welcome to Estates at Montego Bay, in the popular Ahwatukee Lakewood ''Lake'' Community - one of Phoenix's desired neighborhoods for its picturesque walking paths and friendly, active lifestyle. This beautifully upgraded 4-Br pool home sits on a generous lot and is packed with thoughtful enhancements: 💦 Pebble-Tec pool with vari-sp pump, 🌿 Drip irrigation system (front & back),
Follow the path to your dream lifestyle at Carlyle Townhomes, where the South Mountain Preserve provides an awe-inspiring backdrop for the Spanish-style architecture of the homes in this community. Vast greenspaces and tree-lined sidewalks create a serene setting reminiscent of an upscale beachfront resort.We offer indulgent amenities that contribute to the vacation-like experience you will have
Follow the path to your dream lifestyle at Carlyle Townhomes, where the South Mountain Preserve provides an awe-inspiring backdrop for the Spanish-style architecture of the homes in this community. Vast greenspaces and tree-lined sidewalks create a serene setting reminiscent of an upscale beachfront resort.We offer indulgent amenities that contribute to the vacation-like experience you will have
Follow the path to your dream lifestyle at Carlyle Townhomes, where the South Mountain Preserve provides an awe-inspiring backdrop for the Spanish-style architecture of the homes in this community. Vast greenspaces and tree-lined sidewalks create a serene setting reminiscent of an upscale beachfront resort.We offer indulgent amenities that contribute to the vacation-like experience you will have
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
Melissa Massey,
an experienced agent in this neighborhood.
Average Home Value
Source: Public Records
Property Mix - Square Feet
This Neighborhood Has More Owners
Demographics
Total Population
83,043
Median Age
42
Population Density
3 ppl/acre
Population under 18
21.8%
On par with the national average
23.8%
Population over 65
17.1%
On par with the national average
19.1%
Finances
Median Household Income
$99,683
Significantly above the national average
$71,702
Average Household Income
$127,984
Education and Workforce
High School Graduates
97.5%
Above the national average
89.1%
College Graduates
53.9%
Above the national average
34.1%
Advanced Degrees
20.9%
% Population in Labor Force
73.3%
Area Factors
Somewhat Bikeable
Bike Score®
25/ 100
Car-Dependent
Walk Score®
1/ 100
Minimal Transit
Transit Score®
0/ 100
Source: Walk Score
Source: Walk Score
Sound Score® measures the noise level of any address. Transit Score® measures access to public transit. Bike Score® measures the bikeability of any address.
Disclaimer: Certain information contained herein is derived from information provided by parties other than Homes.com. Our sources include: Accuweather, Public Records and Neustar. All information provided is deemed reliable, but is not guaranteed to be accurate and should be independently verified.
