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Can You Really Afford to Live in North Scottsdale? Let’s Break It Down.

You see the sunshine, luxury estates, and breathtaking mountain views — and you think, “I could totally live here.” But with home prices ranging from $4 to $6 million in some neighborhoods, the real question is: Can you actually afford to live in North Scottsdale?


By Shay Noonan | Scottsdale Local & Real Estate Expert

Let’s break down the real cost of living here — from housing to lifestyle, so you can decide if this beautiful slice of Arizona fits your budget and priorities.

1. Housing Costs

  • Entry-Level: One-bedroom condos start around $295,000 — perfect for seasonal residents or solo professionals.

  • Median Price: Currently at $1.1 million — expect 2,500 sq. ft. homes with a pool on ~8,000 sq. ft. lots.

  • Luxury Range: Most buyers land between $1.5M–$2M, but elite enclaves like Silverleaf can hit $25M+.

  • Renting: A similar home rents for about $4,200/month — a good option if you’re new to the area.

2. Gym & Wellness

  • Basic gym memberships (like Mountainside Fitness): $80/month

  • Health clubs (Lifetime or The Village): $200–$500/month, depending on membership type

3. Dining Out

  • Dinner for two with cocktails: Around $100

  • Special occasions at Mastro’s? You’re looking at $400+ — but it’s worth every penny.


4. Education Costs

  • Private Schools: Average $15,000–$20,000/year per child

  • Charter Schools: Tuition-free, but expect donation requests throughout the year


5. Country Clubs & Golf

  • Initiation fees start at $75,000, typically non-equity memberships

6. Utilities & Desert Life Costs

  • Electric Bill: Expect $400–$500/month in the summer unless you have solar

  • Solar Panels: Great for convenience, not for resale value

  • Pool Maintenance: $150/month — a must in desert heat

  • Pest Control: $100/month — because yes, scorpions are very real here


7. Transportation

  • A car is essential — North Scottsdale is not very walkable

  • Expect regular fuel expenses (and don’t be surprised to see luxury cars everywhere)


So, can you afford to live in North Scottsdale?


That depends on your lifestyle and income. It’s not cheap — 85262 is one of Arizona’s wealthiest zip codes. But for many, the trade-off is worth it:

  • Safe neighborhoods

  • Top-tier schools

  • Incredible weather

  • High-end amenities

  • Unmatched quality of life


Want to find out where your budget fits into this landscape?

Visit movemetoscottsdale.com to browse homes for sale and rent, or shoot me an email — I’d love to help you explore if North Scottsdale is the right place for you.


Let’s find your place in the desert.


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