If you’re moving from California, Chicago, or New York and searching for multi-million-dollar homes in Scottsdale, you’ve landed on the right guide. Scottsdale—and the Greater Phoenix area—are drawing more luxury relocations than ever thanks to low taxes, strong schools, nonstop flight access, and a wide variety of ultra-luxury neighborhoods that rival Beverly Hills, Miami, and Dallas.
In this insider relocation playbook, we’ll cover:
Current luxury home prices in Scottsdale, Paradise Valley, and Phoenix enclaves
Arizona’s low 2.5% flat state income tax and ultra-low property taxes
A-rated public and private school options
Where luxury buyers actually purchase homes in 2025
Build vs. buy considerations for million-dollar properties
A 7-step relocation timeline for high-net-worth movers
Risks to avoid when purchasing a luxury home in Scottsdale
Whether you’re planning to buy a $1M golf villa in North Scottsdale or a $10M+ estate in Paradise Valley, this is your ultimate luxury relocation guide.
Why Scottsdale & Greater Phoenix Are Hot Luxury Relocation Markets
1. Tax Advantages
Arizona has one of the most favorable tax structures for high-income earners. Since 2023, the state has operated under a flat 2.5% income tax, saving buyers relocating from high-tax states like California, Illinois, and New York thousands every year. Property taxes are also low: Maricopa County’s effective tax rate averages around 0.52%, compared to the U.S. median of ~1.02%.
2. Flight Access
For second-home buyers and frequent travelers, Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport is a major convenience. With 24 airlines, nonstop flights to 120+ U.S. destinations, and 20+ international cities (including Paris), Scottsdale offers unmatched accessibility for a desert luxury market.
3. Pricing Snapshot (2025)
Scottsdale (citywide): Median sales price ~$925K
North Scottsdale: Median ~$1.2M, home to DC Ranch, Silverleaf, Desert Mountain, Troon
Paradise Valley (AZ’s “Beverly Hills”): Median ~$4.1M, estates commonly $5M–$20M+
Silverleaf (within DC Ranch): Active listings from $4M to $20M+, median in the ultra-luxury tier
Arcadia & Biltmore (Phoenix): High-end historic charm + new luxury builds, pricing close to Scottsdale’s upper tier
📊 Pro tip: I track micro-market trends by subdivision and price band before submitting offers. Citywide medians don’t tell the whole story, especially in Scottsdale and Paradise Valley where pricing is hyper street-specific.
Schools & Education
For many luxury buyers, schools are a driving factor.
Scottsdale Unified School District (SUSD): A-rated, ranked #5 best school district in Arizona (Niche, 2025).
BASIS Charter Schools: Nationally ranked, rigorous academics; BASIS Scottsdale is one of the highest-rated schools in the country (U.S. News 2025).
Private Options: Scottsdale also offers elite private schools, from preparatory academies to specialized programs catering to international families.
Where Luxury Buyers Actually Land
North Scottsdale: Guard-gated golf communities, newer builds, luxury clubs, lock-and-leave options, and close proximity to hiking & dining.
Paradise Valley: Acre-plus lots, custom estates, privacy, and Camelback Mountain views.
Arcadia & Biltmore (Phoenix): Historic charm blended with new luxury construction, close to Sky Harbor, Downtown Phoenix, and top dining corridors.
Central Scottsdale (Gainey Ranch & McCormick Ranch): Waterfront greens, mid-to-upper luxury pricing, and proximity to Old Town amenities.
Build vs. Buy: Which Is Right for You?
New Builds: Energy efficiency, modern architecture, and warranties. Longer timelines and potential carrying costs.
Resales: Established lots, views, and immediate occupancy. May require upgrades (HVAC, roof, pool equipment).
💡 Insider tip: I negotiate builder incentives or resale credits and align inspections with luxury systems like automation, AV, pools, and wine storage.
Scottsdale’s Water Sustainability
One common relocation question: What about water?
Scottsdale holds a 100-year assured water supply designation and operates under an updated Drought Management Plan. In 2025, new HOA and resident rebate programs are available for water-efficient landscaping and pools—making it easier to maintain large estates responsibly.
7-Step Luxury Relocation Timeline
Discovery Call: Discuss goals, schools, clubs, and lifestyle fit.
Private Market Briefing: Review hyper-local comps and luxury trade activity.
Fly-In Tour: Tour 6–10 neighborhoods aligned with your nonstop flight schedule.
Financial Strategy: Pre-approval with jumbo/portfolio lenders; review carrying costs.
Offer Positioning: Appraisal-gap strategies, rent-back terms, builder incentives.
Contract-to-Close: White-glove inspections, remote close for out-of-state clients.
After-Close Concierge: Mover coordination, landscaper bids, club introductions, school enrollment support.
Risks to Avoid
Over-general comps: Scottsdale/PV are hyper-local—every view corridor and lot size matters.
Underwriting surprises on jumbo loans: Secure updated asset statements early.
Light inspection scope: Luxury homes require luxury inspections—pool shells, automation, stucco, sewer scopes.
Final Thoughts
Relocating to Scottsdale or Paradise Valley is more than a move—it’s a lifestyle shift. From tax savings and flight access to elite schools and breathtaking estates, the Greater Phoenix luxury market is uniquely positioned for high-net-worth buyers.
📥 Download my free Luxury Relocation Guide + Home Buyer Guide for step-by-step strategies, market data, and insider tips.
📲 Ready to explore Scottsdale luxury homes? Text me today to schedule a private strategy session click my calendar link for a one-on-one consultation
