Desert Mountain, an exclusive gated community in the Continental Mountains of North Scottsdale, is known for its natural beauty and members-only amenities. “Desert Mountain isn’t just a golf community. It’s a lifestyle,” says Laura Pentecost, broker and team lead at 5 Star Property Brokers at Homesmart who’s sold homes here for 27 years. “You aren’t just buying a house; you're buying into all the restaurants, the tennis club, golf courses, the dog park and 45 different social clubs. It’s a very tightly knit community.” The neighborhood is divided into several “villages” that have their own security gate and character, collectively set around seven golf courses that have their own clubhouses and restaurants. The overall CAP Crime Index Score here is 1 out of 10, lower than the national average of 4.
The community was designed by Taliesin Associated Architects, which was founded by Frank Lloyd Wright and created homes that take full advantage of the surrounding landscape. “The elevation high up above the rest of Scottsdale allows for not only city views but also mountain views, and it backs up to wide open desert,” Pentecost says. “The mountain views are unbelievable, and the temperature is about 10 degrees cooler because of the altitude.” While residents have everything they need within the community, Carefree is 3 miles away, and downtown Scottsdale is a 25-mile trip.
With exclusive amenities & natural beauty, Desert Mountain offers a resort lifestyle.
This custom Desert Mountain homes features a pool overlooking the desert sagebrush.
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Frank Lloyd Wright-inspired homes with mountain views
The custom homes here sit far apart along hilly terrain at the foot of the mountains, blending Southwestern style with a Frank Lloyd Wright aesthetic that emphasizes outdoor spaces. Lots range from a quarter-acre to 10 acres and home layouts range from 2,300 to 9,400 square feet. Prices range from $1.3 million to $11 million; homes set at higher elevations tend to be the most expensive.
Townhouses and condos range in price from $1.6 million to $3 million, depending on views and updates. Buyers can also find undeveloped lots that range from a half-acre to over 2 acres and cost between $450,000 to $1.3 million.
While most new residents join a waitlist to purchase a membership to Desert Mountain’s amenities, some homes come with the privilege of purchasing a golf or lifestyle membership, immediately at closing. “Homes with membership privileges sell the quickest but don’t necessarily cost more,” Pentecost says. Initiation fees of $100,000 to $200,000 aren't included in a home’s price, and members pay additional monthly dues of $1,100 to $2,300. All residents, regardless of membership, pay monthly homeowners association dues of $270 to $740 that cover the community's security and maintenance.
Many homes in Desert Mountain feature pools in the backyard in order to escape the heat.
Desert Mountain homes are typically covered in stucco with brick and stone accents.
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Jack Nicklaus-designed golf courses
“Desert Mountain has the best amenities of all the North Scottsdale golf clubs,” says Connie Edelman, an associate broker with Compass who’s sold homes in the area for 30 years. The community's seven golf courses include six designed by Jack Nicklaus, and each has its own clubhouse and restaurant. Each course has a different character, from the traditional Scottish links-style play of the Outlaw course to the varying elevations and city views of the Chiricahua course. Residents can work on their skills at the Jim Flick Golf Performance Center, which has technological tools and PGA-certified teachers to help develop every element of their game.
The community also tennis and pickleball courts, and indoor fitness center and a full-service spa. Hikers can explore the community’s mountainous desert landscape on over 20 miles of private trails, or head to the nearby trails in the Tonto National Forest. Located 17 miles away, Bartlett Lake is a popular getaway for boating, camping and fishing.
Desert Mountain features homes near private golf courses in a beautiful desert setting.
Desert Mountain residents love the proximity to many trails and outdoor spaces.
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Apache, Constantino’s and eight other members-only restaurants
There are 10 members-only restaurants in Desert Mountain. At Constantino’s, diners can enjoy Italian cuisine, while the Arizona Grill at Outlaw focuses on Southwestern flavors. Steaks and seafood come with nightly live music at Apache, and The Hideout at Renegade serves burgers and other comfort food. “The restaurants are top-notch,” Pentecost says. “When you go to dinner, you tend to run into people you know, and that creates a greater sense of community.”
Outside of Desert Mountain, Edelman recommends Raven’s View, a wine bar serving shareable dishes like charcuterie boards. “It’s packed all the time,” Edelman says. “It’s tiny, but it’s got great food, and you’re sitting in the middle of the mountains.” Carefree has more dining options, plus locally owned shops and a Bashas’ grocery store, 3 miles west. Other grocery stores are a roughly 6-mile drive from the neighborhood’s main gate and include options like Target and AJ’s Fine Foods.
The English Rose Tea Room has been serving tea to Desert Mountain locals for over 20 years.
Members pay $100-200k to enjoy the 6 clubhouses located throughout Desert Mountain.
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The Young Entrepreneur’s Society at Cactus Shadows High
Local kids can attend Black Mountain Elementary, Sonoran Trails Middle and Cactus Shadows High; all three earn an A-minus from Niche, and are within 11 miles of Desert Mountain’s main gate. Students at Cactus Shadows High can choose from 30 after-school clubs, including the Young Entrepreneur’s Society and the Environmental Science Club.
Black Mountain Elementary School fosters an appreciation for learning and the natural world.
Sonoran Trails Middle School earn an A-minus from Niche.
Kids can attend Cactus Shadows High, which earns earn an A-minus from Niche.
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About 13 miles from the 101 freeway
Interstate 17 is about 22 miles from Desert Mountain, but locals rely more on the 101 freeway, which is about 13 miles away. According to Edelman, it can take about 20 minutes for residents in Desert Mountain’s north to drive to the neighborhood’s main gate, then an additional 20 minutes to get to the 101. The 101 leads roughly 25 miles to Scottsdale, and 23 miles to State Route 51, which leads about 2 miles to downtown Phoenix; ultimately, downtown Phoenix is 38 miles away.
With no public transportation, few bike lanes and no sidewalks, Desert Mountain residents rely on their cars to get around North Scottsdale, and many use golf carts to get around within the community. HonorHealth Scottsdale Thompson Peak Medical Center is roughly 13 miles, and Mayo Clinic Hospital is around 17 miles. Sky Ranch at Carefree, a private general aviation airport, is just over a mile away, and Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport is a 34-mile trip.
The Italian Street Festival and other gatherings
Membership gives residents access to Desert Mountain’s six clubhouses and regular community events. Social mixers, concerts and golf tournaments take place regularly, and some of the larger annual events include the Italian Street Festival in June, which features live music and a large selection of Italian foods, and the Monster Mash Fall Bash in October, where residents don Halloween costumes and dance the night away at an outdoor concert.
High wildfire risk
Since Desert Mountain has so much open space and is near undeveloped areas in the Continental Mountains, homes here are at a high risk for wildfire. Fires are common to the east, but residents are more likely to experience smoke from these nearby fires than any direct effects. “There are extra alerts and caution around wildfires here,” Pentecost says, “but because it’s so high up on the mountain, I don’t think there's been a wildfire that’s threatened the community in a very long time.” There are two fire stations nearby, and the Arizona Department of Forestry and Fire Management’s app can help locals stay informed.
GreatSchools:
The GreatSchools Rating helps parents compare schools within a state based on a variety of school quality indicators and provides a helpful picture of how effectively each school serves all of its students. Ratings are on a scale of 1 (below average) to 10 (above average) and can include test scores, college readiness, academic progress, advanced courses, equity, discipline and attendance data. We also advise parents to visit schools, consider other information on school performance and programs, and consider family needs as part of the school selection process.
View GreatSchools Rating Methodology
Are you familiar with the Desert Mountain neighborhood?
to let others know what life in this neighborhood is like.
Crime and Safety
1 - Low Crime, 10 - High Crime
Desert Mountain
US
Homicide
1
4
Sexual Assault
1
4
Assault with Weapon
1
4
Robbery
1
4
Burglary
3
4
Motor Vehicle Theft
3
4
Larceny
1
4
Crime Score
2
4
Source: WhatIsMyCrimeRisk.com
Desert Mountain Demographics and Home Trends
On average, homes in Desert Mountain, Scottsdale sell after 133 days on the market compared to the national average of 58 days. The median sale price for homes in Desert Mountain, Scottsdale over the last 12 months is $2,770,000, down 13% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Experience the Essence of the Sophisticated Cowboy! This home includes the opportunity for an immediate Full Desert Mountain Golf Membership — no waiting necessary.Step through the private courtyard and be welcomed by a striking 10-foot full-glass door leading into a grand double-height foyer. This turnkey, fully furnished, and automated new build by Cullum Homes blends warmth and elegance
Scott GriggGrigg's Group Powered by The Altman Brothers
Complete Remodel in 2025-2026. NO interior steps. Light and bright interiors spaces with a great room floor plan. This home has been reimagined into a modern open-concept design. The chef's kitchen was completely redesigned and features an impressive 8-by-5-foot island with porcelain countertops and book-matched backsplash, custom hand-crafted walnut cabinetry with soft-close pull-out drawers,
**MEMBERSHIP AVAILABLE - ** WELCOME TO THE VILLAGE AT DESERT MOUNTAIN! BUILT BY THE AWARD-WINNING CULLUM HOMES, THESE DISTINCTIVE ''LOCK-N-LEAVE'' RESIDENCES ON ALL 33 LOTS EITHER BACK UP TO THE 13TH HOLE OF THE RENEGADE GOLF COURSE, OR THE 10TH AND 11TH HOLE OF THE SEVEN DESERT MOUNTAIN® GOLF COURSE. INTRODUCING THE OCOTILLO PLUS CASITA FLOORPLAN, A SINGLE-LEVEL HOME WHICH FEATURES 4 BEDROOMS
Scott GriggGrigg's Group Powered by The Altman Brothers
Welcome to 10651 E Fernwood Ln, a fully remodeled Scottsdale home for sale in Desert Fairways at Desert Mountain. This 2,992 square foot south-facing, fairway-fronting, 3 bedroom and 3.5 bathroom open plan home was remodeled in 2024 with high-end modern finishes, creating bright spaces that complement the contemporary pool, spa, and BBQ patio. It is a barely used, move-in-ready home with
Welcome to effortless desert living in this beautifully updated Apache Cottage, located within the highly coveted, guard-gated community of Desert Mountain in North Scottsdale. This single-level 2-bedroom, 3-bath residence with a den offers an exceptional blend of style, comfort, and access to world-class amenities.Tucked inside the desirable Apache Cottages, the home has been nicely
Fantastic Opportunity to own this Desert Mountain SPECTACULAR CUSTOM HOME!! High in the Majestic Mountains of this Exclusive Private Golf course Community, this Amazing Masterpiece awaits you! Sitting on 4.5 acres of natural desert landscape, this Mountaintop Estate has Sweeping Views of the valley all the way to Camelback Mountain. Boasting over 6,000 sq ft of Living space, this sprawling 6-bed
This home is in the Exclusive Guard Gated Desert Mountain Club in North Scottsdale. The property sits thoughtfully on an acre-plus lot with desirable North/South exposure. The main house has 4 en-suite bedrooms. There are formal living and dining rooms, a generous kitchen and family room, an oversized 3-car garage, and huge mountain views. The 1-bedroom guest casita features private access, a
Welcome to Desert Mountain, a premier golf and outdoor recreation-based community in north Scottsdale, AZ. This lot, one of very few left in all of DM and high (+- 3,350') in one of its highest villages (indeed, in all Maricopa County), offers: southern exposure; panoramic city light, McDowell Mountain, and winter sunset views; no extraordinary construction costs; and no noise from major internal
The ultimate Scottsdale luxury home in prestigious Desert Mountain, a premier guard-gated golf community. FULL GOLF MEMBERSHIP AVAILABLE. This fully renovated 5,106sf estate blends organic Tulum-style design with modern elegance. Featuring 4 bedrooms, 3.5 baths, and open-concept living with floor-to-ceiling glass wall showcasing gorgeous mountain views. The designer kitchen offers top-of-the-line
Michel EderyRuss Lyon Sotheby's International Realty
Mortensen Signature Homes Presents another stunning home. Perfectly situated at the end of a cul-de-sac with Big Big long views, North, South and West. Central location close to all DM amenities. High end appliances, Premium finishes throughout, Landscape with drip system property wide, epoxy garage floors, prewire throughout for AV system. Entertainment size Great Room, Kitchen that rolls into a
Golf Membership Available- Located in Desert Mountain's Upper Village of Apache Peak- Experience the essence of Desert Southwest Contemporary living in this remarkable residence, where modern sophistication meets the effortless comfort and fun of year-round outdoor enjoyment. Curved architectural lines define the home's character, creating a harmonious flow from room to room and encouraging a
Daniel WolskiRuss Lyon Sotheby's International Realty
Immediate access for Golf Membership to the Desert Mountain Club! This transitional estateon 1+ acres overlooks Chiricahua's 10th fairway and southeast exposure with covetedPinnacle Peak views. Timeless architecture features an open plan with light-filled spaces and breathtaking mountain and desert views throughout. An ideal year-round retreat, the open Great
Bee FrancisRuss Lyon Sotheby's International Realty
Desert Mountain Golf Membership Available. Warm Contemporary home located in Private Guard-Gated Desert Mountain Club in North Scottsdale. Designed by Tamara Pohle and built by Victor Wiger adjacent to 14th Green of Renegade Golf Course with Black Mt & Continental Mt Views just minutes from gate. Craftsmanship abounds with fine finishes & features throughout: Travertine Flooring, New Carpet,
Kathy ReedRuss Lyon Sotheby's International Realty
Desert Elegance at Apache PeakPerched in the exclusive Village of Apache Peak at Desert Mountain, this newly designed estate redefines what it means to live well in the Sonoran Desert. Designed by Graffin Design and to be brought to life by Black Stone Development, the 7,300-square-foot residence is as much a work of art as it is a home.From the moment you arrive, the drama unfolds. Water
This wonderful Sonoran Cottage Enclave home is a fantastic opportunity. The home has been tastefully updated in recent years and is move in ready. The free standing home has a private driveway and sits elevated with morning and evening views. The great room floor plan has 3 bedrooms all ensuite with bathrooms. This exceptional home has been well maintained and offers a new roof, new water heater,
Jeff ZiekyBerkshire Hathaway HomeServices Arizona Properties
Fabulous open light and bright rental with large living area, dining and family room. Large primary bedroom with fireplace and generous size bath. Two additional guest bedrooms along with an office and upstairs loft/office that can both be used as sleeping rooms. Viewing deck off loft space with views of mountains, sunsets and some twinkles. Enjoy a beautiful spacious backyard with pool/spa,
Joanie BarreiroRuss Lyon Sotheby's International Realty
This beautifully appointed luxury residence welcomes you with a private courtyard entry, creating a warm and elegant first impression. Inside, the thoughtfully designed open floor plan is filled with natural daylight, offering a bright and inviting atmosphere ideal for both relaxed living and entertaining. The gourmet kitchen is a true showpiece, featuring premium Wolf stainless steel appliances,
Bee FrancisRuss Lyon Sotheby's International Realty
Great location in the heart of Desert Mountain, providing views of mountains, sunsets and city lights. Bright and updated with large windows blending living spaces with the desert. Two generous king suites and queen 3rd suite. Plenty of patio options for embracing the Arizona outdoor lifestyle. 25+ miles of private hiking trails are available to tenants. All other Club amenities are for members
Kathleen BenoitRuss Lyon Sotheby's International Realty
Private, soft contemporary custom home in Desert Mountain's Village of Mountain Skyline. Expansive patio, both covered and uncovered spaces for year round outdoor entertainment both in and out of the sun! Spacious chef's kitchen with large island with seating spilling into family room/ TV area. Casual living room with dining room for more formal gatherings or larger gatherings, all with access to
Daniel WolskiRuss Lyon Sotheby's International Realty
Through the courtyard entry you will be greeted with a towering glass front door that allows your eyes drift through the open-concept layout toward a vista of he shimmering water and verdant expanse of the 13th fairway of the Renegade golf course, crowned by the majestic Sonoran Mountains in the distance. The Chef's kitchen gracefully opens onto the stunning living and dining areas featuring high
Shane MarshallRuss Lyon Sotheby's International Realty
Absolutely stunning complete remodel in Desert Mountain. An open great room plan with a large fireplace light and bright. The gourmet kitchen features a large gas range, dual dishwashers, a 48 inch built in R/F, island w/prep sink & micro drawer, and two additional peninsulas. Breakfast area also has a fireplace open to great room. Formal dining room with access to breakfast terrace/ sunset
Joanie BarreiroRuss Lyon Sotheby's International Realty
Spectacular home on the 5th hole of the desert Mountain golf course, Renegade. 5 bedroom suites, has 2 King beds, 3 queens, a bunk room, and 2 twins. This home can accommodate many families. Pool, spa theatre roomAvailable for rent beginning October 1st, 2025-April 30th 2026- 3 month minimum rental required. Pets (dogs) ok 500.00 per pet, security dep 10K, Utility -gas & electric 1000.00 per
Timeless Mexican Contemporary Architecture. You are greeted at the gated courtyard with 200 year old pavers from Guadalajara.This 7900 sq. has 3 bedrooms ensuite and a home office (4th bedroom option). The perfect floor plan for entertaining with a formal living space (1100+ sq. ft.) complete with a wet-bar and floor to ceiling glass view of the outdoor pool patio. Oversized primary suite with 2
Absolutely stunning Camelot Homes build on the golf course in Seven at Desert Mountain! This 3BR/3.5BA home is adorned with cutting edge contemporary finishes throughout the spacious floor plan. Enjoy the best of indoor/outdoor living with generous sliders that connect the great room to the outdoor living space. Entertaining is a snap from the chic bar area to the welcoming heated pool and spa.
Barry ConserRuss Lyon Sotheby's International Realty
Stunning 3 bedroom (all ensuite), plus office in the coveted Village of Grey Fox. A single level sanctuary with no interior steps, located on a quiet street. You will discover city light views at night & beautiful sunset skies off the expansive rear patio complete w/ pool, spa and a built in barbecue. This is a wonderful entertaining space & perfect for enjoying the amazing Arizona start studded
Colleen Rose-ScurtiRuss Lyon Sotheby's International Realty
Fabulous Frank Llyod Wright style home with mountain and city light views. Open and bright featuring formal living and dining rooms, cozy family room off kitchen. Two private guest suites featuring full baths. Large master with fireplace. Spacious outside patios with firepit, built-in-BBQ, pool and spa. Available dates pending owners final approval.Per DMMA CC&R's, this home is available to
Joanie BarreiroRuss Lyon Sotheby's International Realty
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