Scottsdale, the “West's Most Western Town,” has a population of about 236,000 and more than 300 days of sunshine each year. Founded in 1888 by U.S. Army Chaplain Winfield Scott, Scottsdale is loosely divided into several areas: South Scottsdale, Old Town Scottsdale, Civic Center/Fashion Square, Shea Corridor, and North Scottsdale. The city has grown from a loose collection of cattle ranches and citrus farms into a trendy community of residents that range from youthful to retired, though the median age is 39. Its resort lifestyle permeates beyond the world-famous hotels, as many of Scottsdale’s housing developments feature first-rate golf courses, spas, recreational complexes, and the finest shopping anywhere. For a city in the smack in the center of the Sonoran Desert, Scottsdale is remarkably green. Contributing to this verdant landscape are 50 nationally acclaimed golf courses, including the Scottsdale TPC where the FBR Open is played every January, and the Scottsdale Greenbelt, a 20-mile long paved recreation area that connects four parks and is a favorite hangout for inline skaters, joggers, cyclists, walkers, and dog owners. Lighted at night, the Greenbelt extends from Roosevelt and Miller all the way north to Shea and 91st Street.
Scottsdale is strongly invested in arts and culture. Some of the better known attractions include Old Town, home to winding streets full of unique shops and galleries. Every Thursday evening you can stroll the area during the Scottsdale ArtWalk, enjoying artists’ exhibits, receptions, demonstrations, and more. Famous venues for performing arts events include the Kerr Cultural Center and the Scottsdale Center for the Performing Arts.
Scottsdale borders Phoenix to the west, Tempe to the south and the Salt River Pima Indian Community to the east, with new commercial and residential construction rapidly expanding toward the city’s northern limits. Stretching north from McKellips Road to Osborn Road, South Scottsdale is presently undergoing a renaissance and is home to the new ASU Scottsdale Innovation Center. Scottsdale's public schools are well-respected and produce strong results, making the city family-friendly. Although Scottsdale is a highly affluent city, homes are still affordable. As of April 2009, the median home price in Scottsdale is $772,000. The city’s architecture generally combines Mediterranean and Southwestern styles. Return to Greater Phoenix Areas page. |