Gated communities are in high demand in the Scottsdale area and beyond, as they offer residents the peace of mind that comes with round-the-clock security. Guarded entrances keep out unwanted intruders and ensure privacy and safety in the neighborhood, allowing homeowners to leave their properties unattended without stress. These neighborhoods are known for their low crime rates, and many of them offer amenities exclusively for the use of residences. In the Scottsdale area, which is known for its high real estate prices, it can be challenging to find an affordable gated community to live in. These selections are some of Scottsdale’s most reasonably priced neighborhoods that still offer the calm and safety that gated communities are known for. 

Arabella

Situated in the in-demand 85254 zip code, Arabella is a development with over 420 home sites that include both single-family homes and duplex/townhouse options. The neighborhood has easy access to excellent shopping, movie theaters, golf, hiking, and dining, allowing residents to truly soak in the culture of the Scottsdale region. In terms of amenities, residents get the chance to enjoy a large communal area in the center of the development, complete with a pool, playground, grass recreational space, and barbeque equipment. With three gated entrances, the Arabella community offers residences the safety and privacy of round-the-clock security. Single-family homes in the neighborhood are typically priced between $600K and $700K. 

Terravita

One of renowned developer Del Webb’s beautifully planned communities, Terravita is a private, guard-gated community that aims to provide residents with a connection between land and life. An all-age community, Terravita is known as a welcoming and safe place that maintains its real estate values year after year. With an award-winning private golf course and beautiful landscaping throughout the neighborhood, the community blends into its natural surroundings. It’s also what is called a “dark sky community,” meaning that it takes steps to limit nighttime light pollution – in other words, you’ll be able to enjoy the breathtaking starscape above you each and every night. Prices range from the $300,000s to over $1M. 

McDowell Mountain Ranch

Located in North Scottsdale, McDowell Mountain Ranch is situated within the 3,200-acre Sonoran Preserve. This unique planned community is nestled amidst beautiful desert wildlife and boasts extensive hiking trails for resident use. With two well-developed parks set within the community bounds, residents can enjoy tons of amenities: tennis courts, pickleball courts, basketball courts, pools, hot tubs, playgrounds, and more. While the neighborhood feels like it’s off the beaten path and surrounded by nature, residents will actually find it close and convenient to some of Scottsdale’s most popular attractions, including shopping, world-class dining, and recreation. Prices typically fall in the high $1M range, offering interested buyers value and access at a more attainable cost. 

Pinnacle Peak

The name “Pinnacle Peak” comes from the nearby landmark, a 3,170-foot summit that is home to many native wildlife species. The neighborhood is situated on the north end of the McDowell Mountains. With gated communities available in the area, residents can enjoy a safe and secure lifestyle with amenities reserved just for them. A strong local school system and expansive mountain views are the cherries on top of this exquisite place. The median sale price of a home in Pinnacle Peak is $1.3M, but there are many diverse options with a range of prices for interested buyers. 

Winfield

Best known as a resort-style community with a strong tennis program, Winfield is considered among Scottsdale’s most desirable gated communities. The neighborhood is guarded and gated around the clock, and it features both single-family detached homes and townhomes with views of the beautiful Arizona Boulder Mountain preserve. It is bordered by the Boulders community and the Terravita community, both of which are also gated and equally safe. Winfield residents will enjoy a large community clubhouse with eight tennis courts, a fitness center, a heated community pool, a locker room, a café, and exercise classes. Proximity to Scottsdale’s local attractions, including hiking and biking trails. Perfect for secondary and primary homeowners alike, interested buyers can purchase one of Winfield’s 511 homes for between $600K and $900K.