Article Summary:
- Troon North and Desert Mountain offer elevated desert living with panoramic views, direct access to resort amenities, and privacy-driven communities.
- Scottsdale and Paradise Valley are the most sought-after locations for wellness-focused, seasonal living with proximity to private aviation.
- Silverleaf and Desert Mountain offer the highest level of exclusivity, with club memberships, concierge services, and private golf.
- Paradise Valley preserves residential tranquility with large estate lots and no commercial development, making it ideal for long-term second-home investment.
- Arcadia appeals to buyers seeking a luxury home with walkability, dining, and access to both private and commercial airports.
Arizona is the Destination of Choice when Buying a Second-Home
Top Arizona neighborhoods for second homes are drawing increasing interest from affluent buyers seeking privacy, year-round sunshine, and resort-level amenities. From the foothills of North Scottsdale to the estates of Paradise Valley, Maricopa County ranks fourth in the nation for the highest number of second homes, with over 65,000 secondary residences registered in the area1. Whether you’re looking for a seasonal escape, a generational investment, or a custom-built compound, Arizona’s high-end residential enclaves deliver the elevated lifestyle discerning homeowners expect.
Below, we explore the top Arizona neighborhoods for those considering a second residence that aligns with elevated lifestyle standards.
Silverleaf – Elevated Luxury in North Scottsdale
Tucked into the canyons of the McDowell Mountains, Silverleaf is widely regarded as one of Arizona’s most exclusive residential communities. With limited custom home sites, strict architectural controls, and gated privacy, it attracts individuals seeking a high level of discretion and design integrity.
Private Air Access: Scottsdale Airport (SDL), a private aviation hub with FBO services, is just 20 minutes away—ideal for residents who prefer private or chartered flights.
Lifestyle & Amenities: The Silverleaf Club offers a Tom Weiskopf-designed golf course, private spa and fitness facilities, upscale dining, and curated social programming. Many estates are designed with in-home wellness features, including cold plunges, infrared saunas, and expansive outdoor living environments.
Why It’s Ideal for a Second Residence: Silverleaf offers peace, prestige, and lock-and-leave convenience, making it one of the most sought-after communities for seasonal homeowners.
Paradise Valley – Discreet Prestige with Unmatched Access
Nestled between Camelback and Mummy Mountains, Paradise Valley offers large estate parcels, panoramic mountain views, and a long-standing reputation for attracting celebrities, executives, and legacy families. The municipality strictly limits commercial development, preserving its residential serenity.
Proximity to Travel: Residents benefit from access to both Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX) and Scottsdale Airport, each within a 25-minute drive.
Resort & Wellness Offerings: Home to award-winning properties such as Sanctuary Camelback Mountain, Mountain Shadows, and the JW Marriott Camelback Inn, Paradise Valley is surrounded by high-end spa and dining experiences, wellness programming, and proximity to Mayo Clinic.
Second-Home Appeal: With its oversized lots, rich architectural diversity, and privacy-first ethos, Paradise Valley is ideal for those seeking a long-term investment property or a quiet seasonal retreat near the city’s cultural core.
Desert Mountain – Private Club Living in the Sonoran Foothills
Desert Mountain is a private, master-planned community spanning more than 8,000 acres in North Scottsdale. Built around exclusivity and outdoor living, it provides the infrastructure of a world-class resort within a private, guard-gated setting.
Aviation Access: Scottsdale Airport lies within a 35-minute drive, offering reliable private aviation options for part-time residents.
Exclusive Amenities: Desert Mountain features seven signature golf courses, six clubhouses, a performance fitness center, tennis facilities, and its own 20-mile private hiking trail system. Residents also enjoy curated member events, fine dining, and spa access.
Value for Second-Home Buyers: Many homes are designed with seasonal ownership in mind, offering full-service property management, concierge programs, and wellness-oriented design. For those seeking a secure, resort-level experience in the high desert, Desert Mountain remains unmatched.
Arcadia – Walkable Luxury at the Base of Camelback Mountain
Arcadia offers a rare blend of established neighborhood charm, architectural elegance, and central location. It is especially appealing to buyers who want the flexibility of being close to both Old Town Scottsdale and the Biltmore District.
Accessibility: Located just 15 to 20 minutes from Sky Harbor International Airport, Arcadia is convenient for both private and commercial air travel.
Local Lifestyle: The area is home to some of the state’s most celebrated restaurants, boutique wellness studios, and walkable streets lined with mature landscaping and citrus groves. Arcadia’s unique position at the foot of Camelback Mountain provides striking views and easy access to luxury shopping and private schools.
Second-Home Considerations: Arcadia is ideal for buyers who value architectural distinction and proximity to culture and amenities. The area also offers excellent long-term appreciation potential.
Troon North – Tranquil Living in a Desert Golf Enclave
Troon North combines elevated desert scenery with a refined residential environment. Known for its rugged granite outcrops and sweeping views, this area appeals to buyers seeking peace, privacy, and proximity to elite golf and resort properties.
Air Travel Access: Located approximately 25 minutes from Scottsdale Airport, Troon North offers ease of access for seasonal residents.
Amenity Highlights: Residents enjoy access to Troon North Golf Club as well as the neighboring Four Seasons Resort, which features luxury spa services, elevated dining, and a robust outdoor adventure program. Homes in Troon North are often built with resort-style courtyards, detached guest casitas, and panoramic view corridors.
Why It Works for Second Homes: With a lower density and a focus on nature, Troon North provides a quieter alternative to other high-profile neighborhoods while maintaining access to premier amenities and services.
What Clients Look for in an Exceptional Second Home in Arizona?
For discerning buyers evaluating properties in the top-tier of Arizona’s luxury market, key considerations include:
- Proximity to private or executive airports
- Access to spa, golf, wellness, and concierge services
- Architectural integrity and privacy
- Lock-and-leave readiness for seasonal ownership
- Appreciation potential in tightly held, amenity-rich communities
Experience Arizona’s Finest Properties with Katrina Barrett
As Arizona’s #1-ranked real estate agent, Katrina Barrett specializes in helping clients navigate the luxury market with precision, discretion, and integrity. From off-market opportunities to custom-built estates, she brings a seasoned perspective and concierge-level service to every transaction.
To schedule a private consultation or explore available properties tailored to your lifestyle, visit KatrinaBarrett.com.
1. ResiClub, “Second-Home Hotspots: Top U.S. Markets for Buyers with Multiple Properties,” November 2024. Source ↩