I’ll be honest, I get excited anytime someone is considering a move to the Arizona desert. There’s just something about life here that sticks with you.

But choosing where to put down roots? That’s not always easy. When my husband and I moved back eight years ago, we had plenty of conversations about where to call home. It came down to two places: Cave Creek vs. Scottsdale.

Both are incredible. Both offer beautiful desert living in the Phoenix metro area. But the lifestyle, vibe, and real estate are completely different. If you’re debating between the two, let’s break it down so you can find the fit that feels like home.

Lifestyle & Vibe: Small-Town Charm or City Energy

Here’s the easiest way to describe it:

• Cave Creek feels like small-town Western charm with a strong sense of community. With just over 5,000 residents, it’s intimate, relaxed, and full of local character. Think cowboy bars, family-owned shops, and a slower pace.
• Scottsdale is luxury desert living with city perks. Over 233,000 residents call it home, and it’s buzzing with upscale dining, trendy shopping, and major cultural events.

If you want cozy and connected, Cave Creek delivers. If you want a livelier city vibe, Scottsdale might be calling.

Housing & Real Estate: Space or Selection

Both towns have beautiful homes, but the type of living you’ll find is very different.

• Cave Creek homes often sit on larger lots with custom builds, horse properties, and desert retreats. It’s where you find space to breathe.
• Scottsdale homes include everything from high-rise condos to golf course communities and modern desert estates. There’s more variety, but generally at a higher price.

The numbers tell the story:

• Cave Creek average home price (Feb 2025): $899,300
• Scottsdale average home price (Feb 2025): $1,254,040

If land and space are priorities, Cave Creek comes out ahead. If you want housing options and proximity to amenities, Scottsdale wins.

Outdoor Living: Trails or Tees

The good news? No matter where you land, outdoor living is a big part of the Arizona lifestyle.

• Cave Creek is all about hiking, horseback riding, and endless desert exploration right outside your door.
• Scottsdale is a golfer’s dream with 50+ courses, plus world-class resorts and spas when relaxation is the goal.

Community & Amenities: Local Charm or Big-City Perks

• Cave Creek thrives on local flavor. Rustic steakhouses, family-owned cafés, rodeos, and small-town events keep the community connected.
• Scottsdale brings big-city convenience. You’ll find fine dining, luxury shopping, museums, and concerts, but plan for some driving since the city is so spread out.

Commute & Accessibility: Remote or Central

• Cave Creek is more remote, which means incredible desert views and quiet nights. But there’s no public transportation, and commutes can be longer unless you work from home.
• Scottsdale is closer to Phoenix, Sky Harbor Airport, and major employers. If quick access to the city matters, Scottsdale makes it easier.

Schools & Family Life

Both towns have schools and activities worth considering, but the environments are different.

• Cave Creek schools are part of a smaller district and the setting is very community-oriented, with plenty of parks, trails, and recreation.
• Scottsdale offers more variety, from public to private to charter schools, along with a wide range of extracurriculars.

Cost of Living: Where Does Your Money Go Further?

• Home prices: Scottsdale is more expensive.
• Property taxes: Cave Creek comes out slightly lower (0.40% vs. Scottsdale’s 0.44%).
• Land: In Cave Creek, an acre might cost a few hundred thousand. In Scottsdale, that same acre could run over a million.

So… Cave Creek or Scottsdale?

Choose Cave Creek if you want:

• A smaller town with Western charm
• Space, acreage, and beautiful desert surroundings
• A tight-knit, welcoming community

Choose Scottsdale if you want:

• City convenience and major amenities
• More housing options, including condos and golf communities
• A vibrant, high-energy lifestyle

The truth is you can’t go wrong with either. It all comes down to the lifestyle you want.

If you’re considering a move to the Phoenix metro area, I’d love to help you sort through your options and find the right fit. Whether that’s a spacious desert property in Cave Creek or a modern home in Scottsdale, I’ll guide you every step of the way.

👉 Let’s connect today and talk about your Arizona move.

Photo by Tyrel Johnson