Scottsdale's Premier Communities for your Next Chapter: The 2025 Empty Nester's Guide 

So, you’re ready to swap the spacious family home for a lifestyle that’s all about you. For empty nesters looking for that perfect blend of convenience, community, and a touch of indulgence, Scottsdale is a treasure trove. If you're dreaming of a life where you can stroll to a morning coffee, hit the links at a private club, or simply lounge by a resort-style pool, you're in the right place. Let's explore seven incredible communities designed for this exciting new stage of life.

1. Gainey Ranch: The Resort Lifestyle, Perfected

Have you ever enjoyed a stay at a luxurious Scottsdale resort and wished you never had to leave? Welcome to Gainey Ranch. This stunning master-planned community is a true oasis, built around a private 27-hole golf course with serene fountains, peaceful ponds, and streets lined with elegant palm trees.

Residents get exclusive access to the Daniel C. Gainey Estate Club, which boasts a heated pool, top-notch tennis courts, modern fitness facilities, and even charming croquet lawns. It’s all the luxury of a five-star resort without the tourists. Perfectly situated between Old Town and North Scottsdale, you’re just moments away from the best brunch spots and boutiques. From easy "lock-and-leave" condos to magnificent estates, there's a home here to suit your dream.

What makes it perfect for empty nesters? Gainey Ranch offers a vibrant, social, and maintenance-free lifestyle. With an average homeowner age in the 60s, you’ll be surrounded by friends who are also embracing this new phase of life.

2. DC Ranch: Where Upscale Charm Meets an Active Lifestyle

Tucked away near the breathtaking McDowell Mountains, DC Ranch combines exclusivity with a warm, welcoming spirit. The community features two clubhouses with pools and fitness centers, which host a variety of events like wine tastings and group hikes. At the heart of it all is Market Street, a charming district of its own, filled with cozy cafés, unique boutiques, and gourmet restaurants.

If you love the outdoors, you'll appreciate the miles of scenic trails and stunning desert views. For those who enjoy a lively social scene, the community calendar is always filled with activities.

What makes it perfect for empty nesters? It’s the ultimate choose-your-own-adventure community. Spend one day hiking the trails or playing pickleball, and the next enjoying a leisurely coffee on Market Street. The homes here are on the higher end, making it an excellent choice for those seeking luxury with a strong sense of community.

3. Old Town Scottsdale: Walkable, Vibrant, and Full of Urban Energy

If your vision for this next chapter doesn't involve a quiet suburban golf course, Old Town Scottsdale might be your perfect match. For those who crave the energy of walkable streets, inspiring art galleries, and leisurely patio brunches, this is the place to be. This historic area is a dynamic hub of culture, packed with museums, parks, incredible restaurants, and fantastic shopping.

Here, you can downsize into a sleek modern loft, a beautifully restored townhouse or a luxury condo and be surrounded by culture and nightlife.

What makes it perfect for empty nesters? You can leave the car at home. From doctor's appointments to dinner reservations, everything is just a short walk away. The vibrant atmosphere is infectious and keeps you feeling connected. It's the ideal choice if you're ready to trade yard work for exciting new experiences.

4. McCormick Ranch: Lakeside Serenity in the Heart of the City

Imagine starting your day with a peaceful stroll along a sparkling lakeside path. That’s the everyday reality in McCormick Ranch, one of Scottsdale's original and most beloved master-planned communities. The neighborhood is woven together by 25 miles of biking and walking trails, a series of beautiful lakes, and quiet, tree-lined streets.

With its own golf courses, parks, and charming local restaurants, everything you need is right here. The housing options are diverse, ranging from stylish condos and patio homes to stunning waterfront estates, offering a wide array of sizes and price points.

What makes it perfect for empty nesters? You get the tranquility of a quiet suburb without ever feeling disconnected. The extensive network of paths invites you to enjoy morning walks or sunset bike rides, and its central location provides quick access to the freeway for trips to Phoenix or the airport.

5. Stonegate: Gated Comfort with a Country Club Atmosphere

For those seeking a touch of luxury with privacy and great amenities, Stonegate is the perfect fit. This gated community in Scottsdale is known for its lush, beautiful landscaping and palm-lined streets. At its heart is a community center with a large pool, spa, clubhouse, and tennis courts.

Homes here range from two-bedroom patio homes to larger custom houses. The gated entrance provides a strong sense of security and privacy, while the community itself remains friendly and social.

What makes it perfect for empty nesters? Stonegate offers resort-style amenities without the hefty membership fees of a country club. It attracts a wonderful mix of residents and is conveniently located near top-tier medical facilities and the Loop 101. It’s an ideal spot for those looking to downsize while still enjoying a sense of space and community.

6. Ancala: Guard-Gated Luxury with Breathtaking Views

When privacy and prestige are at the top of your list, Ancala is the answer. This exclusive guard-gated community in North Scottsdale covers 850 acres, offering magnificent views of both the McDowell and Camelback Mountains. The homes here are luxurious single-family residences, elegant villas, and custom estates, many of which overlook the private golf course or pristine desert preserves.

Residents enjoy access to a clubhouse with dining options, a fitness center, and tennis courts. The community's low-density layout ensures quiet streets and a peaceful atmosphere.

What makes it perfect for empty nesters? Ancala allows you to downsize in square footage without compromising on luxury. The community is a haven for professionals and retirees who value security, upscale amenities, and stunning panoramic views. It's the perfect setting for entertaining family and friends in style.

7. Troon North: Premier Golfing Amidst Natural Desert Beauty

Set in the stunning landscape of North Scottsdale near Pinnacle Peak, Troon North is widely recognized as one of the area's top golfing communities. Residents have access to multi-use trails that wind through the beautiful Sonoran desert, a four-acre park with tennis and basketball courts, and a turf play area. The community is also just minutes away from the Four Seasons Resort and the popular Pinnacle Peak hiking trails.

The real estate here includes everything from luxury townhomes to custom homes, many offering sweeping views of the desert or mountains.

What makes it perfect for empty nesters? The landscape is simply picture-perfect, and there’s a wonderful sense of community among residents who share a love for golf and the great outdoors. It’s an upscale and peaceful retreat that remains close enough to Scottsdale’s excellent shops and restaurants to feel perfectly connected.

Finding Your Perfect Fit

Scottsdale offers an incredible variety of neighborhoods perfectly suited to the empty-nester lifestyle. Whether you're drawn to the gated luxury of Ancala and Troon North or the vibrant, amenity-rich communities of Gainey Ranch and Stonegate, your ideal home is waiting. Think about what matters most to you—be it walkability, resort-style living, world-class golf, or a close-knit community—and let that be your guide. I’m always here to help you explore the possibilities and find the home that will make this next chapter your best one yet.

Jennifer Keene, Realtor

Click here for our Empty Nesters website with more information