Celebrating a Safeway grocery store might seem like an unusual form of community event. But that's what Waddell residents did in November of 2023, and a quick glance at the area on a map reveals why. "Waddell was known as a rural and quite peaceful place to live for many years. Residents sprawled out on larger lot sizes with room for their livestock and crops. It used to just be a quiet, rural, one general store town — a peaceful place for people," says Realtor Michelle Seymour of eXp Realty, who sells homes in Waddell and makes YouTube videos about the West Valley on her channel West Phoenix Life. "Now that a large part of Waddell’s farmland has turned into residential, commercial developers are trying to catch up. So that Safeway is helpful to residents.” At the current rate of growth, Waddell is on a fast track to becoming a distinct region all its own, achieving this with its intricately designed neighborhoods, top-notch schools, community activities and desert scenery in all directions.
Waddell is growing quickly with new homes, communities and modern amenities on the rise.
Tree farms in Waddell create a peaceful backdrop for residential living.
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Cool and shady desert homes
Waddell sits in the far western reaches of the Phoenix region. Once the site of farmland and a World War 2 POW camp, Waddell's first post office was established in 1937. But it took another 70 years for the majority of homes to arrive, a trend that took off in the mid-2000s. At the foothills of White Tank Mountain, Waddell's once-desert landscape is now a vast expanse of subdivisions containing Spanish-style single-family homes with backyard pools. Most yards are xeriscaped with native plants, helping to preserve the desert landscape. Some stand out from others with bright green lawns, and a handful use astroturf for effortless color. Native flora and grassy yards help cool the neighborhood, a luxury especially enjoyed by residents who use the sidewalks. Buyers can expect to find home prices that are relatively equal to most of Maricopa County, with an expectable range between $330,000 and $700,000, only occasionally going higher if a lot exceeds the normal 2 acre size. "That whole area is the 'last hurrah' of finding land in the West Valley," says Seymour.
Waddell offers cozy homes, great schools, trails and family-friendly neighborhoods.
Newly built homes in Waddell showcase modern design and upscale finishes.
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Diverse STEAM schools
Many young students in Waddell walk to school when attending grades K-8 at Mountain View School. By ninth grade, they attend Shadow Ridge High School. Both schools earn B-plus Niche scores overall and score an A or higher for diversity. Additionally, both schools offer STEAM opportunities, and Mountain View School is even an AdvancED STEAM certified school.
Mountain View School in Waddell is a Pre-K through 8th grade school.
Shadow Ridge High School welcomes students and staff with the monument sign.
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Car-dependent errands and commutes
Outside of Waddell's residential zones, amenities are spread out, and transportation does not serve the area. Locals depend on their vehicles for commutes, errands and trips to downtown Phoenix or to the Phoenix Sky Harbor Airport. Although there are sidewalks on the major roads if someone wishes to walk.
Steak houses and wholesale shopping inching closer
Waddell is still developing, and commercial activity is growing, though not quite at the same pace as the neighborhood's homes. "If you want to have a nice meal or go shopping, you'd head up to Prasada," says Seymour. The growing list of amenities found there include big box retailers such as Costco Wholesale, as well as chain restaurants such as Whataburger and smaller, regional chains such as Dutch Bros Coffee. Locals can spend an entire day in the area at Fat Cats Surprise, an indoor entertainment center with a movie theater, bowling alley and arcade, complete with a full-service menu of food and drinks. For upscale dining, Firebirds Wood Fired Grill offers a sleek interior filled with the aromas of craft cocktails and sizzling ribeye steaks.
Get in some retail therapy at Village at Prasada near Surprise Farms.
Fat Cats near Central Mesa offers an arcade, bowling, movie theater and bar for entertainment.
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Riding trails under the desert stars
Most parks in the neighborhood are simple green spaces for sunbathing, tossing a football or reading a book. Others like Cortessa HOA Park offer recreational amenities such as basketball and volleyball courts and a playground. But the real treat is Waddell's location next to White Tank Mountain Regional Park – the largest regional park in Maricopa County. "Anything that's to the east of the mountains has gorgeous views," says Seymour. The 30,000 acres are home to miles of multi-use trails, offering mountain biking, hiking and horseback riding options, plus some of the best stargazing spots around. Those seeking a controlled environment for admiring wildlife can drive 5 miles southeast to Wildlife World Zoo.
The iconic monument sign at White Tank Mountain Regional Park, Surprise.
Scenic road winding through the majestic beauty of White Tank Mountain Regional Park, Surprise.
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Into the wild blue yonder
Park visitors mingle with fellow nature lovers through guided tours and birdwatching groups at White Tank Mountain Regional Park. When the sun is blazing, White Tank Regional Library offers events and programs for all ages, such as yoga classes, bingo night and the Sonoran Book Club. Come late March, residents flock to nearby Luke Airforce Base for the annual Air Show, where they can watch the U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds execute heart-pounding maneuvers.
Things to consider
Prospective buyers should take note of Waddell’s proximity to Luke Air Force Base. While the proximity might be a positive for service members, it also means residents might experience some noise pollution.
Written By
Robert Breckenridge
Photography Contributed By
John Williams
Video By
Mallory Nolte
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
Bryce Henderson,
an experienced agent in this area.
GreatSchools:
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On average, homes in Waddell, AZ sell after 69 days on the market compared to the national average of 54 days. The median sale price for homes in Waddell, AZ over the last 12 months is $474,990, consistent with the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Gracefully designed and meticulously maintained, this original-owner home offers a well-planned layout and true pride of ownership. Your home welcomes you with a private courtyard and a rotunda entry that opens to 12-ft ceilings and light-filled living spaces. The kitchen features granite countertops, stacked cabinetry, wall oven, and a sunny breakfast room that flows to the patio & main living
Move-in ready brand new home full of custom finishes throughout! Irrigation already stubbed to the backyard and ready to go. Nestled onto a private street with only 9 lots or home having access. No HOA. More homes available on the same Street!
The most spacious Montoro floorplan for the whole family. BRAND NEW MOVE-IN READY HOME! BUILDER IS OFFERING BELOW MARKET FINANCING RATES USING BUILDER'S PREFERRED LENDER! ASK ABOUT INCENTIVES INCLUDING SPECIAL FINANCING RATES. THIS HOME WON'T BE AVAILABLE FOR LONG! This stunning home offers stainless steel appliances, a wall oven, 36'' cooktop, and upgraded 42'' kitchen cabinets. Enjoy granite
Peaceful country living on this lush 1.25-acre irrigated lot in Waddell, Arizona. This charming 3-bedroom, 2-bath home offers a new roof, owned solar (fully paid off), and impressively low monthly bills. Enjoy a gardener's paradise with fruit trees—pomegranate, grapefruit, lemon, and orange—plus a greenhouse, garden spots, and mature shade trees. The full-length covered patio overlooks
Stunning 3-bedroom, 3-bathroom home with den and formal dining/game room! Featuring elegant wood-look tile flooring, a chef-inspired kitchen with white 36-inch cabinets, granite countertops, and stainless steel appliances.Energy-efficient upgrades include tankless water heater, spray foam insulation, dual-flush toilets, and LED lighting throughout.The desirable north/south-facing lot
This exceptional White Tank Foothills home brings together thoughtful upgrades, smart technology, built in 7.2 surround sound ceiling speakers in the great room and 5.1 surround sound in flex room with additional ceiling speakers in the kitchen and patio. RV-ready infrastructure, and a backyard designed for everyday living.Thoughtfully upgraded beyond standard builder features, this home
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Welcome to a truly one-of-a-kind property in Waddell that you won't find anywhere else in the Valley. A ranch, situated on 2 fully fenced acres, this exceptional horse property offers space, privacy, and endless possibilities for a family compound, multigenerational living, or those seeking room to grow. The two-story main home features 2,820 square feet of living space with a thoughtfully
Welcome to this beautifully designed home in Allen Ranch, where modern comfort meets timeless style. Inside, you'll find bright neutral tones, stylish shutters, and contemporary fixtures throughout. The spacious great room flows into a sleek kitchen with quartz countertops, pendant lighting, a breakfast bar, and upgraded Cafe stainless steel appliances. A downstairs bedroom with a walk-in closet
Gracefully designed and meticulously maintained, this original-owner home offers a well-planned layout and true pride of ownership. Your home welcomes you with a private courtyard and a rotunda entry that opens to 12-ft ceilings and light-filled living spaces. The kitchen features granite countertops, stacked cabinetry, wall oven, and a sunny breakfast room that flows to the patio & main living
This beautifully designed home captures mountain views & thoughtful custom details throughout. Offering 3 bedrooms, 2.5 bathrooms, plus a dedicated office & an upstairs loft, the layout provides flexibility for everyday living, work-from-home needs, & entertaining. The kitchen offers generous cabinet & counter space, overlooking the mountains & bringing in natural light and scenic views while you
Spacious, Modern Living with Endless Possibilities!Welcome to this stunning newer-build home offering 5 bedrooms, 3 full bathrooms, and a massive loft and den. Designed with both comfort and functionality in mind, this home features an exceptional open layout ideal for today's lifestyle.The gorgeous, chef-inspired kitchen is the heart of the home, showcasing stylish finishes, abundant
Nestled at the base of the stunning White Tank Mountains, this elegant Tuscan-inspired estate offers the perfect blend of luxury living & outdoor adventure in the exclusive gated community of Russell Ranch. With miles of hiking & biking trails just minutes away, this home is ideal for the discerning buyer who craves both refined comfort & access to Arizona's awe-inspiring natural beauty. Step
Stunning 3 bed 2 bath home w/oversize lot, 1 Personnel gate & 1 RV gate and plenty of room for those toys. The home is a split bedroom floorplan with many upgrades. Laminate flooring and carpet, Granite countertops at kitchen, composite sink, Built in Microwave and Oven, Gas cooktop and top of the line Refrigerator. Shutters throughout, Laundry cabinets, Top load grey washer, Front Load grey
Step into the Stork, a captivating two-story residence boasting an open concept layout and an array of impressive features. On the main floor, you'll find two spacious bedrooms, providing ample space for guests or family members. A secluded dining room offers a peaceful setting for enjoying meals, while a large great room creates the perfect space for relaxation and entertaining. Step outside to
Welcome to this charming single-level home for rent in Waddell! This home is clean and boasts a neutral aesthetic with a well-designed floorplan featuring 4 bedrooms, a den and 3 bathrooms. The primary suite has a double door entry, a private entrance to the back patio, and a spa like en-suite separate tub and shower bathroom featuring a dual sink vanity and a separate shower and tub. The
Coming soon - this home is currently being enjoyed by another resident but will be available soon. This home is professionally managed by Tricon, dedicated to creating exceptional rental experiences. Featuring 3 bedrooms, 3.0 bathrooms, and approximately 1,818 square feet, this well-maintained home offers a high standard of rental living, supported by a team that puts residents first. As a
APPLY NOW AND RECEIVE UP TO TWO WEEKS FREE! Welcome to Northern Farms by Arcadia Communities, a newly constructed community (2022) located in Waddell! This single-family home features include an open and thoughtfully designed floor plan with 3 large bedrooms, den/office, large kitchen w/ island, stainless steel appliances, luxury vinyl plank flooring & two car garage. New artificial turf and
We make Pre-Leasing easy! Apply now and, once you’re approved, take this home off the market by paying a Pre-Lease Hold Fee; ask your Leasing Professional for more information. Once the home is made ready, we'll notify you that it's available for touring and for you to accept or decline. If you decline the home, we'll be happy to help you find a different home or refund your Hold Fee. This home
Newer Single Level Home in Northern Crossing. 5 Bedroom's, 3 bathrooms with Tile and Carpet, and so much more. Kitchen is gorgeous with Newer Stainless Steel appliances, lots of cabinets and granite countertops, crisp and clean. Home also has Newer Samsung washer and dryer Ring Doorbell Camera and Ring Security System provided. Fiber Ready internet with Cox, MyQ smartphone-enabled garage door.
Property Id: 1321163Imagine a home with plenty of space for your family, friends, or even a dedicated home office. It’s got 5 generous bedrooms and 3 pristine bathrooms.And the best part? It’s got a sleek, functional layout with a 2-car garage and high-end finishes throughout. Plus, it’s located away from the hustle and bustle, so you can unwind at the end of the day.Now,
APPLY NOW AND RECEIVE UP TO TWO WEEKS FREE! Welcome to Northern Farms by Arcadia Communities, a newly constructed community located in Waddell! This 2022 home features include an open and thoughtfully designed floor plan with 3 large bedrooms, large kitchen w/ island, stainless steel appliances, luxury vinyl plank flooring & two car garage. Artificial turf and desert landscaping in the backyard
Special security deposit offer: Pay just 50% of your base rent as your security deposit (taxes and fees not included), valid for new applicants who sign a 12-month lease by March 31, 2026. Offer is contingent on application approval and execution of a lease agreement. Other terms and conditions may apply. Live in this recently-constructed property located in the Olive Ranch community.This
Special security deposit offer: Pay just 50% of your base rent as your security deposit (taxes and fees not included), valid for new applicants who sign a 12-month lease by March 31, 2026. Offer is contingent on application approval and execution of a lease agreement. Other terms and conditions may apply. Live in this recently-constructed property located in the Olive Ranch community.This
Welcome to this charming single-level home in Cortessa! 3 beds, 2 baths, 2-car garage, & PAID SOLAR saving tenants HUNDREDS each month. The interior has tons of natural light, and tile & wood-look flooring. Designed for everyday living & entertaining, the impressive kitchen boasts SS spacious open layout is sure to delight! appliances, granite counters, tile backsplash, a walk-in pantry, ample
Special security deposit offer: Pay just 50% of your base rent as your security deposit (taxes and fees not included), valid for new applicants who sign a 12-month lease by March 31, 2026. Offer is contingent on application approval and execution of a lease agreement. Other terms and conditions may apply. Live in this recently-constructed property located in the Olive Ranch community.This
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