Desert Ridge Homes for Sale in North Phoenix, AZ 85050

Desert Ridge is a 5,700-acre master-planned area in north Phoenix where the Loop 101 meets SR-51. Within a few minutes you have Desert Ridge Marketplace, the JW Marriott resort and its two golf courses, the Mayo Clinic Hospital campus, and the trails at Reach 11. It's one of the most convenient places to live in the Valley, and one I know well.

Desert Ridge at a glance
  • City / ZIP: Phoenix, AZ 85050 and 85054
  • Size: about 5,700 acres of former state trust land
  • First homes: 1995. Building continues today.
  • Homes: single-family homes, townhomes and condos, including gated neighborhoods
  • Freeways: Loop 101 and SR-51, with Sky Harbor about 22 miles away
  • School district: Paradise Valley Unified

See all Desert Ridge homes for sale Call Terry: 602-483-4665

Where Desert Ridge is

Desert Ridge covers the area between roughly 32nd Street and 64th Street, from about Union Hills Drive north to Pinnacle Peak Road, with the CAP canal along part of its edge. The Loop 101 runs right through it, and SR-51 ends at the 101 here, giving you a direct route to central Phoenix. Scottsdale, Kierland and the North Scottsdale employment corridor are just to the east.

A little history

Desert Ridge started as a partnership between the State of Arizona, the City of Phoenix and a master developer. The city approved the plan in 1990, the State Land Department auctioned the land in 1993, and the first families moved in around Thanksgiving 1995. Mayo Clinic Hospital followed in 1998, and the JW Marriott and Desert Ridge Marketplace opened in the early 2000s. Gray became the master developer in 2012, and homebuilding continues on the remaining parcels.

The neighborhoods and homes

Desert Ridge is really a collection of neighborhoods, each with its own feel and price range. Some of the best known:

  • Aviano: built by Toll Brothers, with single- and two-level homes plus townhomes and condos, and its own clubhouse with a pool, fitness center and tennis courts.
  • Fireside: built by Del Webb and Pulte, close to Fireside Elementary.
  • Talinn: a newer area on the east side with homes and townhomes from builders including D.R. Horton, Pulte and Shea.
  • Gated enclaves: neighborhoods such as Toscana and Sanctuary offer gated living.
  • Others: Villages at Aviano, Sierra Pass, Bella Monte, Cielo, Estates at Ridgeview, Sky Crossing, Stonecrest and Wildcat Ridge.

Homes range from 1990s-era single-family houses to brand-new construction, so there are options for first-time buyers, move-up buyers and downsizers in the same few square miles.

Things to do in Desert Ridge

  • Desert Ridge Marketplace: open-air shopping, restaurants and entertainment on Tatum Boulevard, just north of the 101.
  • JW Marriott Phoenix Desert Ridge Resort: resort dining and spa, plus Wildfire Golf Club with the Faldo Championship and Palmer Signature courses.
  • Musical Instrument Museum: a world-class museum on Mayo Boulevard with more than 15,000 instruments.
  • Reach 11 Recreation Area: a 1,500-acre city park along the CAP canal with about 18 miles of trails for running, biking and riding.
  • Kierland Commons: more shopping and dining a short drive south and east.

Schools that serve Desert Ridge

Desert Ridge is in the Paradise Valley Unified School District. Schools serving the community include Desert Trails Elementary, Fireside Elementary, Wildfire Elementary, Explorer Middle School and Pinnacle High School. Always confirm the school assigned to a specific address with the district.

HOA basics

Every home is part of the Desert Ridge Community Association, the master association. It handles architectural review, community events and off-duty police patrols. Most neighborhoods, such as Aviano, also have their own village association, so owners usually belong to both. I go through both sets of documents and fees with you before you make an offer.

Close to work

Desert Ridge has its own job base. American Express has a large campus at 56th Street and Mayo Boulevard, and the Mayo Clinic Hospital, the JW Marriott and the Desert Ridge business area are major employers too. Downtown Phoenix and Scottsdale are both reachable by freeway.

Buying in Desert Ridge

  • Homes in the most popular neighborhoods can move fast, so get pre-approved first. Here's the process: first steps to buying a home in Arizona.
  • Compare village HOA rules and amenities as carefully as the houses. They differ a lot from one neighborhood to the next.
  • Some Desert Ridge homes have FHA or VA loans you may be able to take over: assumable mortgage homes in Arizona.

Selling your Desert Ridge home

Desert Ridge is one of my core areas. I know how buyers compare Aviano with Fireside, or a gated enclave with a non-gated street, and I price your home with that in mind. See the latest Desert Ridge market report and my Desert Ridge home values guide, or call me for a free pricing report on your home.

Questions buyers ask about Desert Ridge

Is Desert Ridge in Phoenix or Scottsdale?
Desert Ridge is in the City of Phoenix, mainly ZIP codes 85050 and 85054, right next to Scottsdale.

What school district serves Desert Ridge?
Paradise Valley Unified. Confirm the specific school for any address with the district.

Are there gated neighborhoods in Desert Ridge?
Yes. Several enclaves, including Toscana and Sanctuary, are gated.

Is there an HOA in Desert Ridge?
Yes. There's a master association, the Desert Ridge Community Association, and most neighborhoods also have their own.

Nearby communities to compare

Kierland · Grayhawk · Tatum Ranch · Norterra · Moving to Phoenix guide · DeLex Realty listings in Phoenix

Buying or selling in Desert Ridge?
I can tour you through the neighborhoods, compare HOAs and amenities, or give you a pricing plan for your home. Call or text Terry Day, REALTOR®, DeLex Realty: 602-483-4665.

Community details come from public sources and can change. Confirm HOA, school and other information for a specific home before you buy.

Newest Homes in Desert Ridge

21626 N 38th Way, Phoenix
$1,360,000
5 Beds ⋅ 5 Baths ⋅ 7100946 MLS ⋅ 3,295 SqFt.
Welcome to this beautifully appointed two-story home in Phoenix, where luxury, comfort, and resort-style living come together! Offering 5 bedrooms, a den, spacious loft, 5 bathrooms, and a 3-car garage, this home is designed for both everyday living and effortless entertaining. Step inside to inviting living spaces featuring tile flooring, plantation shutters, crown molding, contemporary lighting, and a cozy natural gas fireplace. The beautifully upgraded kitchen is a chef's dream, showcasing premium Sub-Zero and Wolf appliances, including a Sub-Zero refrigerator, Wolf stove, double ovens, and microwave, along with a stone backsplash, abundant cabinetry, stylish pendant lighting, and a spacious center island. The versatile loft provides additional living space, while the den is ideal for a home office or flex space. Retreat to the impressive primary suite featuring a private sitting area, generous walk-in closet, and spa-inspired bathroom complete with dual vanities, a soaking tub, and a luxurious steam shower. Additional upgrades include an owned reverse osmosis system and water softener, EV charger, split-zone HVAC with five thermostats, and a central vacuum system. Step outside to your own private backyard oasis, complete with a sparkling pool, relaxing spa, built-in BBQ, fire pit, covered patio, and misting system to keep you comfortable while enjoying Arizona's beautiful outdoor lifestyle. Beyond the home, enjoy a fantastic location with access to neighborhood walking trails, the Fireside Community Center, nearby Desert Ridge Marketplace, and the Paradise Valley Unified School District. From its thoughtful upgrades and spacious layout to its incredible outdoor amenities and desirable location, this home offers an exceptional Arizona lifestyle! All furniture may convey with this home.

21626 N 38th Way, Phoenix

4025 E Hashknife Road, Phoenix
$1,099,000
4 Beds ⋅ 3 Baths ⋅ 7098695 MLS ⋅ 3,508 SqFt.
Welcome to this beautifully appointed 4-bedroom residence featuring soaring ceilings and an expansive loft, ideally situated on a quiet interior lot with north/south exposure, mountain views, and a resort-style backyard. This home offers a spacious, light-filled floor plan with elegant finishes throughout. The gourmet kitchen features granite countertops, upgraded cabinetry, stainless steel appliances, a gas cooktop, double ovens, designer pendant lighting, and a generous walk-in pantry. The family room includes a bar, perfect for entertaining, while the living and dining rooms offer additional space to gather with guests. An impressive wrought-iron staircase leads to the upper level, where the spacious primary suite offers a private balcony with beautiful mountain views, a walk-in closet and a luxurious bath with dual vanities and a walk-in shower. Three additional bedrooms and an oversized loft provide flexibility for guests, work, or recreation. Step outside to your own private retreat, complete with a heated saltwater pool, resurfaced in 2022 - 2023 and a peaceful setting backing to a common area and walking path. Additional highlights include a striking custom metal entry door, a three-car garage, and abundant storage throughout. Meticulously maintained with thoughtful improvements, including a newer water heater, water softener, and irrigation system, this exceptional home combines comfort, sophistication, and the best of Arizona indoor-outdoor living--all near Desert Ridge Marketplace, JW Marriott golf and spa amenities, and High Street, with abundant dining and shopping options!

4025 E Hashknife Road, Phoenix

5250 E Deer Valley Drive Unit 353, Phoenix
$1,450,000
3 Beds ⋅ 3 Baths ⋅ 7098397 MLS ⋅ 2,175 SqFt.
Experience contemporary luxury at The Luxe at Desert Ridge, a prestigious guard-gated community offering an exceptional collection of resort-inspired amenities in a premier North Phoenix location. This desirable third-floor end-corner residence features three bedrooms and two-and-a-half baths, showcasing sophisticated, contemporary open living w/a neutral palette, custom chandeliers, recessed lighting, and refined designer finishes throughout. The great room makes a striking statement w/a floor-to-ceiling tile-surround linear fireplace and an expansive four-panel glass door opening to the outdoor living space. The gourmet kitchen is beautifully appointed w/a large quartz island w/seating, quartz countertops, a herringbone tile backsplash, premium stainless steel appliances, a gas range with vent hood, and ceiling-height shaker cabinetry accented by glass display cabinets and under-cabinet lighting. The primary suite offers a beautifully finished bath featuring dual vanities, quartz countertops, custom lighting and mirrors, and a distinctive herringbone tile accent wall. Both full bathrooms feature quartz countertops and thoughtfully selected finishes. A well-appointed utility room adds exceptional functionality with quartz countertops, a prep sink, and Electrolux washer and dryer. The expansive wraparound balcony extends the living space outdoors, featuring a built-in Coyote BBQ with vent hood, quartz countertop, and herringbone tile backsplash, along with select mountain views. Additional conveniences include two underground parking spaces with wiring for an EV charging station and a large private storage unit adjacent to the parking spaces. The Luxe's impressive community amenities elevate everyday living, highlighted by a 12,767-square-foot clubhouse, Olympic-size community pool, state-of-the-art 4,000-square-foot fitness center, and infrared sauna. Residents can also enjoy beer-garden-inspired outdoor gathering spaces, outdoor kitchens, a catering kitchen, a luxury wine room, a multi-seat movie room, an indoor mail room, and a business center, along with a sports court and playground. Ideally located near Desert Ridge Marketplace, Mayo Clinic Hospital, premier Scottsdale shopping and dining, championship golf, hiking trails, and convenient freeway access, this exceptional residence offers a sophisticated lock-and-leave lifestyle with contemporary design, resort-style amenities, and outstanding convenience.

5250 E Deer Valley Drive Unit 353, Phoenix

Start Your Search

Copyright 2026 Arizona Regional Multiple Listing Service, All rights reserved. The data relating to real estate for sale on this website comes in part from the Arizona Regional Multiple Listing Service. All information deemed reliable but not guaranteed and should be independently verified. All properties are subject to prior sale, change or withdrawal. Neither listing broker(s) nor Arizona Regional Multiple Listing Service shall be responsible for any typographical errors, misinformation, misprints and shall be held totally harmless.

How much is your home worth?

Get instant property value now!