Moving to Fountain Hills, AZ: Fountain Hills Homes for Sale and Local Guide

Fountain Hills is a town of about 23,600 people on the east side of the McDowell Mountains, northeast of Scottsdale, reached by Shea Boulevard and State Route 87. It is a quiet, hilly town known for its giant fountain and dark night skies, and Fountain Hills homes for sale range from condos and patio homes to custom hillside and golf course homes.

I'm Terry Day with DeLex Realty. Fountain Hills feels like a small town tucked against the mountains, with views on almost every street and open desert on three sides. Here is my guide to where it is, how it grew, the kinds of homes you will find and what to check before you buy.

Fountain Hills at a glance

Where: northeast Valley, east of the McDowell Mountains
Population: 23,820 (2020 Census); about 23,625 (July 2025 Census estimate)
Land area: about 20.3 square miles
Elevation: about 1,520 feet at the fountain, rising to about 3,000 feet
Schools: Fountain Hills Unified School District
Utilities: EPCOR water, Fountain Hills Sanitary District sewer, SRP electric, Southwest Gas

See Fountain Hills homes for sale Call Terry: 602-483-4665

Where Fountain Hills is

The town sits in Maricopa County in the northeast part of the Valley. The McDowell Mountains and Scottsdale are to the west, the Fort McDowell Yavapai Nation is to the east, the Salt River Pima-Maricopa Indian Community is to the south and McDowell Mountain Regional Park is to the north. The Arizona Commerce Authority puts Phoenix about 32 miles away, and the town's own profile lists Scottsdale at about 15 minutes, Mesa at about 27 minutes and Sky Harbor Airport at about 28 minutes. Shea Boulevard is the main road west toward Scottsdale, and the town sits close to State Route 87, the Beeline Highway.

Because the town climbs from about 1,520 feet at the fountain to about 3,000 feet near Golden Eagle Boulevard, it sits roughly 500 feet higher than Phoenix. Many streets wind along the hills, which is where the views come from.

A short history

Robert P. McCulloch's company, McCulloch Properties (now MCO Properties), bought the land in the late 1960s. Early plans centered on a lake behind a proposed dam, but the dam was never built after Fort McDowell residents opposed it. The town credits Charles Wood Jr., known for his work on Disneyland, with the community's design. Fountain Hills was formally established in December 1970 and incorporated as a town in 1989.

The fountain came first. McCulloch built it in 1970, and it was the tallest fountain in the world for more than a decade. Today the town calls it the tallest in the United States. It runs for 15 minutes every hour on the hour from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m., usually reaching about 300 feet, and can reach about 560 feet when all three pumps run in calm weather. It sprays recycled water from Fountain Lake, supplied by the Fountain Hills Sanitary District.

Neighborhoods and types of homes

Fountain Hills homes include condos and townhomes, patio homes, single-family homes on view lots and large custom homes high on the hillsides. Golf shapes several neighborhoods. FireRock Country Club is a private club with a Gary Panks course, SunRidge Canyon Golf Club has a Keith Foster course, Eagle Mountain has a Troon-managed course by Scott Miller, and Desert Canyon Golf Club has a John Allen design. In the north part of town, Adero Canyon includes a Toll Brothers community and the Adero Canyon Trailhead into the regional park.

Hillside lots come with rules. In the town's L-1, L-2 and L-3 zoning districts, slopes of 20 percent or more fall under hillside disturbance limits, and many lots carry Hillside Protection Easements granted to the Town. You cannot build, grade or clear plants in those easements without Council approval, so I check the plat before a buyer plans a pool, wall or addition.

Explore by neighborhood or feature: SunRidge Canyon, Eagle Mountain, golf community homes, luxury homes, luxury homes on 1+ acre lots, gated communities, homes with pools, condos and townhomes, new construction, pickleball communities and resort-style communities.

Things to do

Fountain Park, at 12925 N. Saguaro Boulevard, covers 64 acres around a 29-acre lake, with an amphitheater, an 18-hole disc golf course, a splash pad, playgrounds and a Veterans Memorial. Swimming, fishing and boating in the lake are not allowed. Downtown, the Avenue of the Fountains is lined with shops and restaurants, and the town counts more than 150 public artworks across the community.

For the outdoors, McDowell Mountain Regional Park has more than 21,000 acres and about 50 miles of multi-use trails, according to the town's tourism office. In town you can hike the Overlook Trail, play pickleball or tennis at the 25-acre Golden Eagle Park, use the skate park and dog park at Desert Vista Park, or walk the 8-acre Fountain Hills Botanical Garden. Saguaro Lake is about 12 miles away. Fountain Hills was named the world's 17th International Dark Sky Community, so outdoor lighting stays low and stargazing is part of life here.

Big events include the Fountain Festival of Fine Arts & Crafts, held each November and February for more than 50 years, the Thanksgiving Day Parade on the Avenue of the Fountains, and the Irish Fountain Fest, when the fountain turns green near St. Patrick's Day. The We-Ko-Pa Casino Resort and the We-Ko-Pa golf courses are on Fort McDowell Yavapai Nation land just east of town.

Schools

Fountain Hills Unified School District serves the town with McDowell Mountain Elementary (PreK to 3), Fountain Hills Middle School (4 to 8), Fountain Hills High School (9 to 12) and the Fountain Hills Virtual Academy, according to the town. Visit the Fountain Hills Unified School District website for enrollment and boundaries, and see my pages on McDowell Mountain Elementary and Fountain Hills Middle School. Scottsdale Community College, on Salt River Pima-Maricopa Indian Community land, is the nearest community college.

Getting around

There is no freeway inside town, so most trips start on Shea Boulevard or State Route 87. In January 2026 the town reported work adding a third eastbound lane on Shea between Palisades Boulevard and Fountain Hills Boulevard. Valley Metro Route 515 makes one morning trip from Fountain Hills to the Gilbert Road and McDowell Road area in Mesa and one return trip in the late afternoon. Valley Metro RideChoice and the town's volunteer "Give A Lift" program help some residents with rides.

Jobs, shopping and health care

The town's 2024 profile lists the school district, Fountain View Village, Safeway, the Town, FireRock Country Club, Fry's, Target and Eagle Mountain Golf Club among the largest employers, so many residents commute to jobs in Scottsdale and beyond. Fountain Hills Medical Center on N. Saguaro Boulevard is a freestanding 24/7 emergency department that opened in 2021, HonorHealth runs urgent and primary care on E. Palisades Boulevard, and the town notes that Mayo Clinic is about 10 minutes away along Shea.

Utilities and services

The town lists SRP for electric, Southwest Gas, EPCOR for water, the Fountain Hills Sanitary District for sewer and Republic Services for trash. Police service comes from a Maricopa County Sheriff's Office contract that began in 2003, and the Fire Department runs stations on E. Palisades Boulevard and N. Fountain Hills Boulevard. Short-term rentals under 30 days need an annual Town registration and permit, an Arizona TPT license and registration with the County Assessor.

Buying and selling in Fountain Hills

Hillside easements, HOA design rules, golf club memberships and view lines all affect value here, so I review the plat, the CC&Rs and any club documents with buyers early. On some homes you may be able to take over the seller's FHA or VA loan; see my assumable mortgage guide and first steps to buying a home in Arizona. Selling? Read how to price your Arizona home to sell. Spending winters here? See my snowbird home buyer's guide.

Questions buyers ask

How far is Fountain Hills from Sky Harbor Airport?
About 25 to 30 minutes by car, based on the town and state profiles. Most drivers take Shea Boulevard west and pick up the freeways in Scottsdale.

Can I build a pool or addition on a hillside lot?
Often yes, but check the plat first. Many hillside lots have Hillside Protection Easements where no building, grading or plant removal is allowed without Town Council approval, and slopes of 20 percent or more have disturbance limits.

Who provides police and fire service?
The Maricopa County Sheriff's Office provides police service under a contract with the town, and the town runs its own Fire Department with two stations.

Are there golf course homes in Fountain Hills?
Yes. FireRock Country Club, SunRidge Canyon, Eagle Mountain and Desert Canyon all have homes nearby, and the We-Ko-Pa courses are just east of town on Fort McDowell land. See my golf community homes page.

Browse all Fountain Hills homes for sale or Fountain Hills homes listed by DeLex Realty. Nearby: Moving to Scottsdale | Moving to Mesa

Homes by School in Fountain Hills

Searching by school? Start with these high school area pages:

Fountain Hills High School area homes

See more on my homes by school page.

Fountain Hills: questions people ask

What is the sales tax rate in Fountain Hills?
The combined retail sales tax rate in Fountain Hills is 9.2%. That is the Arizona state rate of 5.6%, the Maricopa County rate of 0.7% and the town rate of 2.9%. For more on everyday costs in the Valley, see our cost of living guide.

Does the Town of Fountain Hills charge a property tax?
No, the Town of Fountain Hills does not have a primary property tax. Your bill can still include other taxing districts, such as the Fountain Hills Sanitary District. The Maricopa County Treasurer's website lists the taxing districts on any property's bill.

Who provides water and sewer service in Fountain Hills?
EPCOR provides drinking water in the Town of Fountain Hills, and the Fountain Hills Sanitary District handles wastewater. EPCOR's sources are Colorado River water delivered by the Central Arizona Project and groundwater from the aquifer under the town. The Sanitary District is a separate government from the town, and its recycled water irrigates golf courses and town parks.

Is Fountain Hills a Dark Sky community?
Yes, DarkSky International named Fountain Hills an International Dark Sky Community in 2018. Before that, in 2016, the town made major updates to its outdoor lighting ordinance. Outdoor lighting is kept low on purpose, which keeps the night sky dark.

When did Fountain Hills become a town, and what borders it?
Fountain Hills incorporated as a town in 1989, about 19 years after McCulloch Properties started it in 1970 as a master-planned community. Scottsdale borders the town on the west, the Fort McDowell Yavapai Nation on the east and the Salt River Pima-Maricopa Indian Community on the south. Thinking about Scottsdale too? Read our Scottsdale relocation guide.

Comparing cities? See all of my Greater Phoenix city guides. Want to see what's happening in the market? Check my market reports, read the blog, or learn more about me. Ready to talk? Call Terry Day at 602-483-4665.

Browse current homes for sale listed by DeLex Realty agents.

Ready to look at Fountain Hills?
Call Terry Day at DeLex Realty for hillside, golf and view homes in Fountain Hills at 602-483-4665.

Town, Census and other details come from the Town of Fountain Hills, the U.S. Census Bureau, the Arizona Commerce Authority, Valley Metro and news reports and can change. Confirm zoning, easements, utilities and school boundaries for a specific property before you buy.

Newest Fountain Hills Homes for Sale

16344 E Arrow Drive Unit B1, Fountain Hills

$305,000

2 Beds ⋅ 2 Baths ⋅ 7103026 MLS ⋅ 979 SqFt.

Enjoy Arizona mornings & evenings in this prime location close to shopping, dining, parks, scenic desert views, & just 15 min to Mayo. Ideal as a primary residence, winter retreat, or investment opportunity, this condo is a smart match in the heart of Fountain Hills. Fall in love with easy desert living in this well-maintained ground level condo offering comfort, convenience, & a low-maintenance lifestyle. The light-filled living area flows seamlessly into the kitchen, creating an inviting space for everyday living or entertaining. Well-sized bedrooms provide peaceful retreats, while the thoughtful layout maximizes functionality throughout.

16344 E Arrow Drive Unit B1, Fountain Hills

$975,000

3 Beds ⋅ 3 Baths ⋅ 7102976 MLS ⋅ 2,650 SqFt.

Tucked at the end of a quiet cul-de-sac with no HOA, this exceptional single-level retreat backs directly to mountain preserve with zero stairs or steps inside or out. Thoughtfully designed for effortless, accessible living, the bright interior features a two-way fireplace, plantation shutters, a bonus/flex room, and a granite kitchen with an island and walk-in pantry. The expansive primary suite boasts a private fireplace sitting area, direct pool access, and a zero-threshold roll-in shower. Out back, enjoy absolute privacy with a sparkling pool, spillover spa, shaded pergola, paver patio, space for toys, RV parking and low-maintenance turf framed by hillside views. Complete with an oversized 2.5-car garage and RV gate, this Fountain Hills gem offers Arizona living at its best.

15311 E Two Gun Circle, Fountain Hills

$569,000

3 Beds ⋅ 2 Baths ⋅ 7102785 MLS ⋅ 1,560 SqFt.

Wonderfully updated non HOA home on a quiet street in Fountain Hills. This home shares no shortage of views from both the front and rear landscaped elevation. Tastefully renovated chefs kitchen and remodeled baths are only a handful of improvements the current seller has addressed, with the highlight being the incredibly transformed backyard oasis. Walk to Fountain Hills High as well as shopping and dining. Priced to sell. Furniture is also available on a separate bill of sale. Solar info in docs tab.

16237 E Keymar Drive, Fountain Hills

15513 E Palisades Boulevard, Fountain Hills

$999,900

4 Beds ⋅ 4 Baths ⋅ 7102594 MLS ⋅ 4,601 SqFt.

Feel-Good Living with Spectacular Views of Four Peaks, The Fountain, and Red Rock. Perfect for entertaining, with multiple indoor and outdoor spaces, soaring ceilings, and open floor plan. Recent updates include new kitchen cabinetry, quartz countertops, breakfast bar, stainless steel appliances, walk-in pantry, updated lighting, and wood flooring. Family room has wood burning fireplace and floor to ceiling tile hearth, wood flooring, and Redrock views. The spacious primary retreat offers a sitting area, deck access with stunning mountain views. The spacious large walk-in closet has a washer and dryer, there is a separate tub and shower and dual sink vanity. The 2nd bedroom on the main level has an en-suite bath - perfect for in-laws or guests. This home has a lot to offer!

15513 E Palisades Boulevard, Fountain Hills

16026 E Tumbleweed Drive, Fountain Hills

$1,100,000

3 Beds ⋅ 4 Baths ⋅ 7102580 MLS ⋅ 3,702 SqFt.

VIEWS! VIEWS! VIEWS! Experience breathtaking panoramic views of Four Peaks, Red Mountain, McDowell & Superstition Mountains and the World Famous Fountain! This custom-built home showcases two luxurious primary suites, including an upstairs retreat with fireplace, expansive en suite, dual vanities, separate walk-in closets & private view deck access. Main level primary offers pool access & mountain views and a third bedroom with private en suite. Enjoy a living room fireplace, wet bar, dedicated office with built-ins & three versatile bonus/flex spaces. Beautiful knotty Alder cabinetry & doors throughout the home. Granite countertops, butcher block kitchen island, updated LG appliances and Jenn-Air five burner cooktop complete this functional kitchen. Resort-style outdoor living features a sparkling pool and water feature, outdoor bar & Kiva fireplace. Newer roof, dual 14 SEER HVAC systems & so many more thoughtful updates. Oversized true 4 car garage! NO HOA! Act quick on this beautifully maintained home!

16026 E Tumbleweed Drive, Fountain Hills

16739 E El Lago Boulevard Unit 101, Fountain Hills

$290,000

2 Beds ⋅ 2 Baths ⋅ 7102503 MLS ⋅ 1,293 SqFt.

Fully furnished and move-in ready! This desirable ground-level end unit at Desert Horizons delivers effortless desert living with front-porch views of the iconic Fountain and Four Peaks. Inside, enjoy an open great room with low-maintenance tile throughout and a well-appointed kitchen with stylish counters and a breakfast bar. The sought-after dual primary-suite layout offers ultimate privacy, featuring a jetted tub, custom walk-in shower, and ample storage. Complete with in-unit laundry, covered patio with storage, assigned carport, and a community pool. An exceptional lock-and-leave winter getaway or primary home!

16739 E El Lago Boulevard Unit 101, Fountain Hills

17149 E El Pueblo Boulevard, Fountain Hills

$839,900

4 Beds ⋅ 3 Baths ⋅ 7102452 MLS ⋅ 2,096 SqFt.

One Property, Two Residences - Endless Possibilities! The main house offers approximately 2,100 sq. ft. of living space. The upper level features wall-to-wall tile, a spacious primary suite with a sitting area, walk-in closet, newly remodeled bathroom, and a balcony showcasing stunning mountain views. The lower level includes two additional bedrooms that share a bathroom, a formal living and dining room, a family room, a fully equipped kitchen, and an attached two-car garage. The home is equipped with two central air conditioning units, plus a dedicated mini-split in the primary suite for energy-efficient comfort. The backyard is accessible through two side gates-one large enough for RV parking and the other leading to the guest house. The guest house features 800 sq. ft. of beautifully designed space. This one-bedroom residence includes a spacious living area with an electric fireplace, a full kitchen, wall-to-wall tile, a large bedroom with walk-in closet, a luxury bathroom with ceiling-height tile and a lighted vanity, and a laundry room with washer, dryer, and sink. A private driveway leads directly to the guest house, offering ample paved parking. Cooling is provided by a high-efficiency 3-ton four-zone ductless split system. The backyard offers generous space to add a swimming pool, spa, or RV parking. This property is ideal for multi-generational living, rental income, or flexible living arrangements. If the new owners choose to remodel the main house, the guest house provides a comfortable on-site living option during renovations. Conveniently located just one mile from shopping and Fountain Lake, with quick and scenic freeway access via the Ft. McDowell reservation-no need to drive through town!

17149 E El Pueblo Boulevard, Fountain Hills

$3,595,000

4 Beds ⋅ 6 Baths ⋅ 7102311 MLS ⋅ 5,107 SqFt.

Introducing a 2026 masterpiece by Picasso Homes, nestled within the exclusive gated enclave of Palatial Estates in Fountain Hills. This striking modern-contemporary residence seamlessly blends architectural sophistication with elevated everyday living. Spanning two thoughtfully designed levels. The primary suite is privately situated on the main level, creating a true retreat complete with a serene sitting area and spa-inspired bath. Designed for both grand entertaining and comfortable living, the main floor features a formal dining room, a dedicated office, and an expansive open-concept kitchen outfitted with premium finishes and seamless flow into the living spaces, powder room, spacious laundry and key drop. Downstairs: 3 spacious bedrooms, each w/its own ensuite bath along with an

15431 E Palatial Circle, Fountain Hills

$1,200,000

4 Beds ⋅ 4 Baths ⋅ 7102149 MLS ⋅ 3,057 SqFt.

A captivating blend of Southwestern charm, thoughtful design, and inviting outdoor spaces, this beautiful home offers a setting where everyday living feels like a retreat. Nestled on a quiet cul-de-sac with views of the majestic Four Peaks, mature desert landscaping creates a welcoming first impression, setting the tone for the warmth and character found throughout. Inside, a thoughtfully designed, step-free floor plan offers an effortless flow between inviting living spaces. At the heart of the home, a spacious great room welcomes you with soaring ceilings, rustic wood beams, and a striking stone fireplace. Expansive windows and glass doors invite the outdoors in, creating a seamless connection to the backyard. The adjoining kitchen is designed for gathering, featuring rich wood cabinetry, granite countertops, stainless steel appliances, including an induction cooktop, a generous island with breakfast bar, walk-in pantry, and a charming breakfast nook with its own patio. A dedicated beverage station and formal dining area provide additional spaces for entertaining, while a versatile office offers endless possibilities for work, hobbies, or fitness. The thoughtfully designed split floor plan features four spacious bedrooms and 3.5 baths, including a generous primary suite with direct patio access. Its ensuite bath offers dual vanities, a soaking tub, walk-in shower, and an expansive custom-organized closet. Three additional bedrooms provide comfortable accommodations, including one with its own ensuite bath. A well-appointed hall bath features dual vanities and direct backyard access, ideal for poolside convenience, while a separate powder room offers an added touch of comfort for guests. Outside, a series of beautifully designed spaces invites you to slow down and savor the surroundings. An expansive covered patio accommodates both outdoor dining and comfortable lounging, while a sparkling pool with a natural rock waterfall creates a refreshing centerpiece. Exceptional desert landscaping, including magnificent saguaros and rare Madagascar ocotillos, surrounds intimate seating areas tucked throughout the grounds. Gather with friends around the built-in fire pit, escape to the flagstone patio for a quiet moment, or simply enjoy the peaceful ambiance of your own desert retreat. Adding to the home's versatility is a dedicated three-car garage with an extended workshop or hobby area, offering exceptional flexibility for creative pursuits, projects, and additional storage. A well-appointed laundry room provides everyday convenience. Situated on a quiet cul-de-sac in desirable Sunridge Canyon, this inviting property offers a wonderful balance of tranquility and convenience, with easy access to Fountain Park, local shops, restaurants, and the vibrant community atmosphere that makes Fountain Hills so special.

15004 N Owl Court, Fountain Hills

16144 N Mountain Parkway --, Fountain Hills

$3,500,000

3 Beds ⋅ 4 Baths ⋅ 7102030 MLS ⋅ 3,651 SqFt.

Your Dream Home awaits you! Build your dream home on this amazing property that offers you views of the Superstition Mountains, Four Peaks and so much more! This 3 bedroom home is 3651 sq. ft. with a 4 car garage and beautiful pool and spa patio to enjoy! This home is conceptual and can be modified to fit your desires. Reach out with any questions.

16144 N Mountain Parkway --, Fountain Hills

14517 E Shadow Canyon Drive, Fountain Hills

$2,635,000

3 Beds ⋅ 3 Baths ⋅ 7102012 MLS ⋅ 3,182 SqFt.

Your Dream Home awaits you! Build your dream home on this amazing property that offers you a great location and Mountain Views. This single level 3 bedroom home is 3182 sq. ft. with a four car garage and beautiful pool patio to enjoy! This home is conceptual and can be modified to your desired layout! Inquire with questions.

14517 E Shadow Canyon Drive, Fountain Hills

17027 E Calle Del Oro -- Unit D, Fountain Hills

$229,000

2 Beds ⋅ 1 Baths ⋅ 7101626 MLS ⋅ 1,026 SqFt.

Spacious 2 bedrooms, one bath. Lovely mountain views from balcony, living room and primary bedroom. Granite countertops, newer stainless appliances and stack washer/dryer.

17027 E Calle Del Oro -- Unit D, Fountain Hills

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