Yes, Scottsdale is generally more expensive than Phoenix, especially in terms of housing. While Phoenix offers a variety of housing options, including the most affordable, Scottsdale is known for its upscale neighborhoods and luxury housing, leading to higher average costs for both renting and buying. The cost of living in Scottsdale, Arizona is 30.8% more expensive than in Phoenix, Arizona. Downtown Scottsdale is a similar distance to Phoenix, but since most luxury homes are located in the north, the wealthiest residents of Scottsdale can live within a 40-minute drive of Phoenix.
While the choice between Phoenix and Scottsdale can be difficult, these two Arizona cities are close. Unlike Paradise Valley, most homes for sale in Scottsdale have less than an acre of land, according to Zillow, and the largest properties are in North Scottsdale. Both Scottsdale and Phoenix are located in the Phoenix, Arizona metropolitan area, but each one offers a different lifestyle, so the debate between Phoenix and Scottsdale is complicated.
