Moving to South Scottsdale, Arizona: Your Complete Guide to Homes, Dining & Lifestyle

South Scottsdale is where Arizona’s urban edge meets Southwest soul. It’s home to Old Town Scottsdale—a lively hub filled with historic character, local flair, and enough energy to keep things exciting day or night. Whether you're strolling through art galleries, sipping craft cocktails, or house-hunting in one of Scottsdale’s fastest-evolving neighborhoods, South Scottsdale has something for everyone.

🍔 Old Town Favorites: Eat, Drink & Explore

Old Town is the heartbeat of South Scottsdale, known for its walkable streets, buzzing nightlife, and iconic food spots. Here are a few local favorites that define the vibe:

• The Mission
  A standout in the Latin cuisine scene, The Mission offers upscale comfort food with a kick—think tableside guac, slow-roasted meats, and top-shelf margaritas. The candlelit ambiance makes it a go-to for date nights or special occasions.

• Rehab Burger Therapy
  This beach-themed burger joint is all about bold flavors and laid-back vibes. The menu includes juicy, creatively topped burgers (try the PBJ & Bacon Burger—it works!), killer milkshakes, and a side of surfer chill. Perfect for a casual bite before hitting the Old Town bar scene.

• Craft 64
  For pizza lovers and beer buffs, Craft 64 delivers. They serve up wood-fired pizzas with locally sourced ingredients and feature a rotating list of Arizona-brewed craft beers. It’s chill, lively, and pure Old Town.

• AZ88
  A Scottsdale icon with a sleek, artistic vibe. Known for its legendary martinis and contemporary American fare, AZ88 doubles as an art gallery, with rotating installations and ultra-modern decor. It’s upscale without being uptight—ideal for a stylish night out.

• FnB
  Tucked inside the historic Craftsman Court, FnB offers farm-to-table dishes that highlight Arizona ingredients like nowhere else. It’s a must for foodies, with an award-winning wine program to match.

🏠 Housing Communities: The South Scottsdale Scene

South Scottsdale is one of the Valley’s most dynamic real estate markets. With a mix of mid-century charm, modern builds, and revitalized neighborhoods, it offers great options for buyers and renters alike:

• Hy-View & Village Grove
  These neighborhoods offer mid-century ranch-style homes with big yards and character galore. Many have been renovated, making them popular among young families and creatives.

• Papago Parkway & New Papago Vista
  Tucked close to Papago Park, these neighborhoods offer affordable homes with quick access to downtown Scottsdale, Tempe, and the greenbelt. Ideal for outdoor lovers and commuters.

• South Scottsdale Condos & Townhomes
  From sleek modern condos near Old Town to more affordable communities just south of Thomas Road, there are plenty of low-maintenance living options. Great for snowbirds, investors, and first-time buyers.

📊 South Scottsdale Real Estate Market Snapshot (Spring 2025)

• Median Home Price: ~$649,000 — more accessible than North Scottsdale, but rising steadily as the area grows in popularity.

• Rental Hotspot: Strong demand from ASU students, tech professionals, and short-term vacation renters keeps the market competitive.

• Renovation Wave: Older homes are being remodeled at record rates, making for a fresh blend of vintage charm and modern updates.

🌵 Why South Scottsdale?

• Walkability: You can live steps from bars, restaurants, shops, and the canal path. No car, no problem.

• Proximity: Quick access to Tempe, Phoenix, Sky Harbor Airport, and Loop 101.

• Community Vibe: A mix of long-time residents, students, and young professionals keeps things grounded yet energetic.

• Greenbelt & Parks: The Indian Bend Wash Greenbelt is a 12-mile stretch of parks, golf courses, and trails—perfect for biking, running, or relaxing.

Final Thoughts

South Scottsdale—and especially Old Town—offers a rare combo: a rich local culture, an evolving housing scene, and a location that puts you in the middle of everything. Whether you’re looking to invest, settle down, or just enjoy the lifestyle, South Scottsdale makes it easy to fall in love.