Old Town Scottsdale

Old Town Scottsdale is the most walkable submarket in metro Phoenix — a dense, energetic urban core where 70+ art galleries, chef-driven restaurants, award-winning cocktail bars, and luxury condominiums share blocks with some of the Southwest's premier cultural institutions. Spanning roughly ZIP codes 85250 and 85251, Old Town is the only neighborhood in the greater Phoenix area where a fully car-optional lifestyle is genuinely achievable.

• Young professionals and executives seeking urban walkability in a luxury setting

• Second-home and investment buyers — strong short-term rental demand year-round (spring training, Phoenix Open, art season)

• Empty nesters transitioning from a family home to a lock-and-leave condo lifestyle

• Arts and culture enthusiasts who want to live where the galleries, music, and dining are

• Buyers commuting to SkySong ASU Innovation Center or the Scottsdale Airpark

Old Town's condo-heavy inventory keeps the median sale price notably below Scottsdale's citywide figure. As of June 2026, the median sits near $702,000 — but the range is enormous. Entry-tier condos at mid-rise buildings start near $325,000. Luxury high-rise units at The Mark, Envy, Scottsdale Waterfront, and Optima Camelview reach $1.5M–$3M+. Small-lot single-family homes in Old Town's quieter pockets range from $800,000 to $2M+.

• More than 70 art galleries and the iconic Thursday ArtWalk events

• Western Spirit: Scottsdale's Museum of the West and Scottsdale Museum of Contemporary Art (SMoCA)

• Scottsdale Fashion Square — the Southwest's largest shopping destination, walkable from many buildings

• Entertainment District — rooftop bars, live music, nightlife that defines the Scottsdale experience

• Old Town's legendary restaurant row and brunch scene

• Proximity to the AJ's Fine Foods, Whole Foods, and everyday retail within walking distance

Old Town Scottsdale boasts one of Arizona's most acclaimed dining scenes. From The Mission (modern Latin cuisine in a converted chapel) to Craft 64 and Le Maitre, the neighborhood is a culinary destination. The AZ88 courtyard, FnB Restaurant, and Old Town's rooftop cocktail venues are perennial favorites. Brunch culture here is a weekend institution.

Old Town Scottsdale sits entirely within Scottsdale Unified School District (SUSD), which earned an A district grade from the Arizona Department of Education in FY25. Elementary and middle school attendance zones vary by exact address — families should verify directly with SUSD. Scottsdale Country Club Elementary and Kiva Elementary are nearby public options; several well-regarded private schools operate within a short drive.

Old Town is conveniently positioned between some of the Valley's finest golf destinations. Scottsdale Country Club is adjacent, and the Phoenician Golf Club, TPC Scottsdale (Waste Management Phoenix Open venue), Gainey Ranch Golf Club, and dozens of North Scottsdale courses are 15–25 minutes away.

Old Town's location offers excellent access across the metro. Sky Harbor Airport is approximately 15 minutes. Tempe and ASU are 15 minutes south. Downtown Phoenix is 20 minutes. SkySong ASU Innovation Center is essentially walking distance or a quick rideshare. The Scottsdale Airpark is 15 minutes north. Valley Metro operates local routes through Old Town, and Tempe's light rail is 15 minutes by rideshare.

• Unmatched walkability — the only truly walkable urban experience in metro Phoenix

• Strong short-term rental demand creates income potential for investment properties

• World-class cultural amenities, dining, and nightlife at your front door

• SUSD A-rated schools for buyers with families

Things to Consider

• Condo-heavy market — single-family home inventory is limited and expensive

• Short-term rental regulations are evolving; verify current rules before purchasing as an investment

• Nightlife and event noise can be a factor for some buildings and blocks

• HOA rules and building-specific assessments vary significantly — due diligence is critical

Old Town is one of Arizona's strongest short-term rental markets, driven by year-round events including the Waste Management Phoenix Open, Cactus League Spring Training, Barrett-Jackson, and the winter snowbird season. Cash-on-cash returns for well-managed STR units can be significant. Long-term appreciation in SUSD school zones has been consistent. Building-level due diligence (reserve funds, warrantability, STR rules) is essential before purchasing.

Old Town condos in top-tier buildings (Scottsdale Waterfront, Optima Camelview, The Mark) command consistent premiums and sell in competitive timeframes. Unique boutique buildings and well-renovated small-lot homes attract design-forward buyers and often generate multiple offers when priced correctly.

Q: Can I rent my Old Town condo on Airbnb?

A: Many buildings allow short-term rentals, but rules vary significantly by building and have evolved in recent years. Always verify the HOA documents and current City of Scottsdale STR regulations before purchasing as a rental investment.

Q: Is Old Town Scottsdale safe?

A: Old Town is generally safe, though weekend nightlife brings increased foot traffic and occasional incidents near the Entertainment District. Buildings with security, concierge, and controlled access tend to offer a more private experience.

Q: What type of buyer is best suited for Old Town?

A: Old Town is ideal for lock-and-leave buyers, second-home owners, investors, and urban lifestyle seekers. Families with children can make it work given the SUSD schools, but space and yard options are more limited than in suburban sub-markets.

To view the most current homes available in Old Town Scottsdale, visit jorjanigroup.com or contact Jorjani Group directly. Listings are updated in real time from the Arizona Regional MLS (ARMLS). Jorjani Group can also arrange private showings and provide off-market access for qualified buyers.

Ready to buy, sell, or invest in this area? Jorjani Group brings deep local knowledge and a strategic, advisor-first approach to every transaction. Whether you're relocating, upgrading, or building long-term wealth through real estate, Jorjani Group is here to guide you every step of the way.

Jorjani Group  |  jorjanigroup.com  |  602-571-9313  |  hello@jorjanigroup.com