$1,307,724Average Value$293Average Price per Sq Ft21Homes For Sale
A master planned community in preserved desert mountains
Just down the road from Taliesin West, a Spanish-influenced midcentury modern villa once the personal winter home of Frank Lloyd Wright, McDowell Mountain Ranch honors its prominent neighbor with similar motifs of organic grandeur and meticulous design. Sitting in the rolling foothills of McDowell Sonoran Preserve, the arid 30,000-acre landscape steadily lifts a neighborhood of many subdivisions up with it as the cacti-laden hills gradually increase into desert mountains. Buyers come here seeking many things and find them all and more in the master-planned communities surrounding a wealth of amenities. Community spaces interconnected by paved and rugged trails that lead to top-notch schools and shopping centers all come together in these scenic foothills to deliver one of Scottsdale's most enticing suburban oases.
McDowell Mountain Ranch residents enjoy scenic mountain views in their own backyard.
Taliesin West, Frank Lloyd Wright’s winter home, is just minutes from McDowell Mountain Ranch.
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Classical and modern designs echo the desert landscape
Though townhomes and condos can be found in select subdivisions, the area primarily consists of detached single-family homes. They offer a choice between classic Spanish-style villas and sleek international-style modern homes with a hint of Spanish influence. The neighborhood's architecture blends seamlessly with its natural surroundings, whether it means beige stucco exteriors leading to terracotta roofing or stacked stone foundations supporting floor-to-ceiling windows. Wooden pergola carports often sit at the end of long driveways, cutting through xeriscaped front yards filled with tall saguaro cacti and other native desert flora. Students can easily walk to school from their homes in cul-de-sacs with paved cut-throughs leading to shaded sidewalks. Paved trails meander through the desert brush, safely passing underneath major roads with illuminated tunnel underpasses. Being one of Scottsdale's most master-planned neighborhoods, these homes come with price tags to match their curb appeal, usually beginning at around $600,000 and frequently reaching as high as $4 million or more.
Native cacti thrive in the desert environment of McDowell Mountain Ranch.
Many homes in McDowell Mountain Ranch have little architectural details to set them apart.
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Walkable schools with IB
Most students attend grades K-8 at Desert Canyon Elementary and Desert Canyon Middle, which both have Niche scores of A. Once they reach high school age, students can get a head start for college at the A-minus-rated Desert Mountain High, which offers an International Baccalaureate program. Desert Mountain High is also a member of Arizona's Seal of Biliteracy Program, offering proficiency courses in Spanish, French, Russian, Mandarin Chinese and Japanese languages. Students north of Bell Road attend the A-rated Copper Ridge School for grades K-8, then finish 9 miles south in Scottsdale at the B-plus-rated Chaparral High.
Desert Canyon Elementary in Scottsdale is setting high standards.
Encouraging creativity and curiosity at Desert Canyon Middle School in Scottsdale, AZ.
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Nature preserves and waterparks
McDowell Mountain Ranch rests quietly at the foothills of sprawling acres of arid mountains in a protected natural preserve. Miles of rugged trail meander upward through the neighborhood, beginning at trailhead parking lots next to local schools. These afford those brave enough to travel them with lookout points far above the neighborhood, offering some of the best views of Scottsdale around. Just look out for the occasional rattlesnake and other wildlife to be avoided. Non-outdoorsy residents have their fair share of amenities, like the aquatic center with waterslides, a lazy river, diving boards, lap lanes, a separate zero-entry pool, and a skatepark and soccer field next door. Less than a mile east, the McDowell Mountain Ranch Recreation Center offers another pool, basketball courts and two hard surface tennis courts. To the south, the McDowell Mountain Golf Club links are ideal for business meetings and casual Saturday outings.
A hike in nature is never far when you live in Scottsdale.
McDowell Mountain Ranch offers residents many amenities including community pools.
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An organic sense of community
On Paradise Lane sits yet another park, this one featuring a community center that hosts frequent events. A farmers market happens there on the first Sunday of every month, where residents peruse local produce and artisan trinkets. A public library branch in the neighborhood also offers frequent events such as group book discussions or computer classes.
Find your new favorite read a the Arabian Library in McDowell Mountain Ranch.
McDowell Mountain Ranch features many walking paths throughout the community.
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All-day charcuterie boards
Two shopping centers accommodate the neighborhood with plenty of restaurants and weekly amenities, such as a Bashas' Grocery Store, medical practitioner offices and some pharmacies. Locals head north to McDowell Mountain Marketplace on weekends for brunch at The Vig, cob salads and smoothies from Freshbox, or a meat and cheese plate from the Whining Pig. Just over a mile south, Thompson 105's wood-fired rotisserie chickens offer an upscale dining experience at Desert Canyon Shopping Mall.
Grab a handmade cocktail at Thompson 105 in McDowell Mountain Ranch.
Thompson 105 in McDowell Mountain Ranch serves up wood fired roasted chicken daily.
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Walking or driving
There is no public transportation servicing the area, so residents own cars. It's about a 3-mile drive to the 101 Freeway, the closest major commuter route. High walkability offers safety to students, cyclists, and pedestrians visiting neighborhood attractions.
A McDowell Mountain Ranch resident safely uses a walling path to avoid street traffic.
McDowell Mountain Ranch Residents will use the 101 freeway to access the greater Phoenix area.
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
Steven Yost,
an experienced agent in this neighborhood.
Parks in this Area
Terrace Homes West Park
Picnic Area
Playground
Multi-Purpose Field
Gateway Trailhead
Trails
Parking Lot
Horizon Park
Baseball/Softball
Basketball
Dog Park
McDowell Mountain Ranch Park
Baseball/Softball
Basketball
Golf
Gateway Trailhead - McDowell Sonoran Preserve
Trails
Parking Lot
Hiking
Transit
Airport
Phoenix Sky Harbor International
33 min drive
Crime and Safety
1 - Low Crime, 10 - High Crime
McDowell Mountain Ranch
US
Homicide
1
4
Sexual Assault
1
4
Assault with Weapon
1
4
Robbery
1
4
Burglary
2
4
Motor Vehicle Theft
1
4
Larceny
2
4
Crime Score
1
4
Source: WhatIsMyCrimeRisk.com
McDowell Mountain Ranch Demographics and Home Trends
On average, homes in McDowell Mountain Ranch, Scottsdale sell after 44 days on the market compared to the national average of 70 days. The median sale price for homes in McDowell Mountain Ranch, Scottsdale over the last 12 months is $375,000, up 17% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Finally!! Stunning luxury remodel in one of the hottest neighborhoods in 85255, North Scottsdale. Original floor plan has been transformed to look like a 5 million$ custom home. Designer finishes typically only seen in Silverleaf has this standing out in a sea of updated homes. The main retreat has been masterfully reconfigured by expanding into the original bonus room, now it looks like a
WOW...Spectacular Remodel with Striking Style & Luxury and Stunning Views. Upgraded in 2025 includes, all new Windows & Doors, AC Systems, Roofing, Cabinets, Appliances, Plumbing (Tankless Heater, Softener, R/O, fixtures, Tubs, Toilets, Sinks), 11'x 7' Front Door, Interior Doors & Hardware, Wood Floors, Fire Sprinkles, Lighting, Custom Garage Doors & Landscaping. Waterfall Island Kitchen with
If you're looking for move in ready, this one is for you! This home has been meticulously cared for and updated to ensure a smooth transition to its new occupants. New roof, HVAC, water heater and owned water softener within the last 4 years (see attached updates)! Take advantage of the Scottsdale lifestyle with nearby hiking, a convenient community center with all the amenities and plenty of
Remodeled, refreshed, and ready for you in McDowell Mountain Ranch. This 3-bedroom + den home sits on a premium interior lot with mountain views, just a short stroll to the community center and park OR Elementary/Middle Schools. Inside, the layout offers flexible living with soaring 20-foot ceilings, an abundance of natural light. Renovations include new flooring (2022 & 2025), HVAC (2024), roof
Unrivaled elevation. Endless views. Complete privacy. Located at the highest point in McDowell Mountain Ranch's prestigious, guard-gated 100 Hills. This property offers jaw-dropping, expansive views of sculpted mountain peaks, vibrant sunsets, and a sparkling city skyline after dark, all from one of the highest residential vantage points in the whole Valley. On the 1.25-acre property is a
This gorgeous 3-bedroom, 2.5-bath townhome offers the perfect blend of comfort, luxury, and convenience in a prime location! The private gated community is just minutes from the 101 freeway, Westworld and hiking at the McDowell Mountains. Inside, the open and spacious floorplan provides a perfect setting for everyday living and entertaining. The gourmet kitchen boasts quartz countertops, sleek
Welcome to the gated community of McDowell Mountain Ranch. This spacious 5-bedroom 4 bathroom light bright and open floor plan is your perfect home! With a large kitchen opening to the family room leaves a perfect space for entertaining, and an ensuite downstairs for guests. Landscaping and pool service are included, so enjoy your summer BBQing and cooling off in the pool. We look forward to
Welcome to Kota North Scottsdale, where modern style meets exceptional comfort. If youre looking for a living destination thats surrounded by nature, but still well-connected to the community, youll find happiness here! This friendly apartment community, formerly known as Dakota at McDowell Mountain Ranch, sits in the middle of panoramic mountain views and breathtaking desert landscaping. Life
Move in Ready! North Scottsdale spacious 3-bedroom 2-bath plus a den home all configured on one floor in the shadows of the McDowell Mountains. Kitchen offers stainless steel appliances, Granite countertops and center island with ample cabinet space. Kitchen opens to the family room, for an open room concept and entertaining. The primary living room and formal dining room is spacious with
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
Steven Yost,
an experienced agent in this neighborhood.
Average Home Value
Source: Public Records
Property Mix - Square Feet
This Neighborhood Has More Owners
Demographics
Total Population
12,815
Median Age
48
Population Density
4 ppl/acre
Population under 18
21.2%
On par with the national average
23.8%
Population over 65
21.3%
On par with the national average
19.1%
Finances
Median Household Income
$158,989
Significantly above the national average
$71,702
Average Household Income
$181,125
Education and Workforce
High School Graduates
96.5%
College Graduates
71%
Significantly above the national average
34.1%
Advanced Degrees
36.8%
Above the national average
13.3%
% Population in Labor Force
64.2%
Weather
Annual Precipitation
10''
Average Winter Low Temperature
43°F
Average Summer High Temperature
104°F
Annual Snowfall
0''
Area Factors
Somewhat Bikeable
Bike Score®
35/ 100
Car-Dependent
Walk Score®
29/ 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.
