Moving to Paradise Valley, AZ: Paradise Valley Homes for Sale and Local Guide

Paradise Valley is a small, almost entirely residential town between Phoenix and Scottsdale, with Camelback Mountain on its southern edge and Mummy Mountain in the middle. Most of the town is zoned for homes on lots of at least one acre, and resorts are the main non-residential use.

I'm Terry Day with DeLex Realty. Paradise Valley homes for sale sit mostly on lots of an acre or more, and the town was set up on purpose to stay that way. This guide covers where the town is, how it came to be, the zoning and hillside rules buyers run into, schools, services and what to check before you buy or sell.

Paradise Valley at a glance
  • Where: Maricopa County, between Phoenix and Scottsdale; roughly Shea Blvd (north), Scottsdale Rd (east), Chaparral Rd (south) and 32nd St (west)
  • Incorporated: May 24, 1961
  • Population: 12,658 (2020 Census); 12,251 (July 2025 Census estimate)
  • Land area: about 15.4 square miles
  • Zoning: most of town is R-43 (one acre or more per home)
  • Town property tax: none (county, school and other levies still apply)
  • Public schools inside town: Kiva and Cherokee elementary schools (Scottsdale Unified)

See Paradise Valley homes for sale Call Terry: 602-483-4665

Where Paradise Valley is

The Town of Paradise Valley sits between Phoenix to the west and Scottsdale to the east. The town's resident guide gives approximate boundaries of Shea Boulevard on the north, Scottsdale Road on the east, Chaparral Road on the south and 32nd Street on the west. Camelback Mountain forms much of the southern edge, Mummy Mountain rises in the middle of town, and the Phoenix Mountains Preserve is to the west. The Arizona Commerce Authority lists the town at about 1,165 feet in elevation and about 10 miles from Phoenix.

Main roads include Tatum Boulevard, Scottsdale Road, Lincoln Drive, McDonald Drive and Indian Bend Road. Valley Metro buses run on Tatum and Scottsdale Road. Town Hall is at 6401 E. Lincoln Drive.

One thing that surprises buyers: a "Paradise Valley" mailing address does not always mean the town. The 85253 ZIP code covers both Paradise Valley and parts of Scottsdale. The City of Phoenix also has a planning area called Paradise Valley Village, around Paradise Valley Mall and Kierland, and the Paradise Valley Unified School District serves north Phoenix and nearby areas, not the town. Check the jurisdiction for any home you are considering.

A short history

Cattle grazed this area in the late 1800s. In the 1880s the Rio Verde Canal Company planned to turn it into irrigated farmland, and its surveyors named it Paradise Valley in 1889. Real settlement came after World War II, mostly on lots of one to five acres. In 1961 residents petitioned Maricopa County to incorporate because they worried Phoenix or Scottsdale would annex the area and bring subdivisions, shopping centers and new zoning. Their goals were one home per acre, a residential town and limited government. The town incorporated on May 24, 1961, with about 2,000 residents, and its boundaries were largely set by 1968.

Homes and neighborhoods

Most of Paradise Valley is zoned R-43, which means at least one acre per home. The town also has R-175, R-35, R-18 and R-10 residential districts. Because homes have been built here since the years after World War II, you will see homes from many eras, sometimes on the same street. Some homes sit on the slopes of Camelback and Mummy mountains, where extra rules apply (see below). A few areas, such as Clearwater Hills west of Tatum, have been county islands rather than part of the town, which matters for permits and services.

Explore by type: luxury homes ($1M+) | Mummy Mountain homes | homes with pools | gated communities | golf communities | resort-style communities | condos and townhomes

Hillside rules and building

The town's hillside rules apply to mapped hillside areas and to any lot where the natural slope under the building pad is 10% or more. Above 1,500 feet in elevation, mountain-top ridge lines may not be altered. A six-member Hillside Building Committee reviews new homes, remodels, pools, solar and similar projects on hillside lots for grading, height, lighting and materials. If you plan to build or remodel on a slope, budget time for this review. Any non-residential use, including resorts, needs a Special Use Permit with public hearings.

Things to do

Resorts are a big part of town life. The town lists the Camelback Inn (JW Marriott), Hermosa Inn, Kimpton Miralina, Mountain Shadows, Omni Scottsdale Resort & Spa at Montelucia, Sanctuary Camelback Mountain, Andaz and DoubleTree Paradise Valley Resort, with the Ritz-Carlton Paradise Valley on Lincoln Drive. The Short Course at Mountain Shadows is a public golf option, and Paradise Valley Country Club is a private club.

Hikers use the Echo Canyon and Cholla trails up Camelback Mountain, run by the City of Phoenix and open sunrise to sunset. Cosanti, the former home and studio of architect Paolo Soleri on Doubletree Ranch Road, is where Soleri bells are still made, and tours are free. The Barry Goldwater Memorial, a bronze statue unveiled in 2004, stands at Tatum and Lincoln.

Schools

Two public schools sit inside the town: Kiva Elementary and Cherokee Elementary, both in Scottsdale Unified School District. The town's resident guide says homes west of Tatum and south of Lincoln are served by Creighton Elementary School District and Phoenix Union High School District. Nearby Scottsdale Unified schools include Cocopah Middle School and Chaparral High School. Always confirm the assigned schools for an address with the district.

Getting around

Most residents drive. Lincoln Drive and McDonald Drive run east-west across town, and Tatum Boulevard and Scottsdale Road run north-south. The town uses photo radar and red-light cameras along with regular patrols, so watch your speed. Valley Metro bus routes run along Tatum and Scottsdale Road.

Services and utilities

  • Police: the town's own police department, 6433 E. Lincoln Drive.
  • Fire: provided through an agreement with the City of Phoenix, which staffs the town's two stations.
  • Water: depends on the address: EPCOR, City of Phoenix, City of Scottsdale or Berneil Water Co.
  • Sewer: City of Phoenix or the town system (operated by Scottsdale); many properties use septic.
  • Electric and gas: APS or SRP by address; Southwest Gas.
  • Trash: private haulers (the town does not collect).
  • Short-term rentals: rentals under 30 days need town registration and a permit, plus state and county registration.

Buying and selling tips

When you buy here, confirm the jurisdiction (town, Phoenix, Scottsdale or a county island), the water provider, whether the home is on septic and what that means at sale, and any hillside rules if you plan to change the home. Lot lines, easements and wash areas matter on large lots, so a survey is worth it. Start with my first steps to buying a home in Arizona, and if a home has an assumable FHA or VA loan, see my assumable mortgage homes page.

When you sell, price against recent sales with similar lot size, views and age of the home, because two homes on the same street can be very different. My guide on how to price your Arizona home to sell walks through it. You can also compare nearby Scottsdale and Phoenix.

Questions buyers ask

When did Paradise Valley become a town?
Paradise Valley incorporated on May 24, 1961. Residents formed the town to keep one home per acre and avoid being annexed by Phoenix or Scottsdale.

What school districts serve Paradise Valley?
Most of the town is served by Scottsdale Unified School District, which runs Kiva and Cherokee elementary schools inside town limits. Homes west of Tatum and south of Lincoln are served by Creighton Elementary and Phoenix Union High School districts, per the town.

Is a Paradise Valley address always in the Town of Paradise Valley?
No. The 85253 ZIP code covers both the town and parts of Scottsdale, and some nearby areas are county islands. Check the jurisdiction on the county assessor record for any home.

Do Paradise Valley homes use septic systems?
Many do. The town says many properties use septic, while others connect to City of Phoenix sewer or the town system. Ask which one a home uses before you buy, and plan for the septic inspection Arizona requires when a home with septic is sold.

Looking for land as well as luxury? See my page on Paradise Valley luxury homes on large lots, covering $1M+ homes on an acre or more, hillside rules, septic and water.

Homes by School in Paradise Valley

Searching by school? See my homes by school page for high school and school district searches across the Valley.

Paradise Valley: questions people ask

Does Paradise Valley have a town property tax?
No, the Town of Paradise Valley does not levy a town property tax; Maricopa County's adopted levy tables show a 0.0000 primary and bond rate for the town. Homeowners still pay county, school district and other property taxes on their bills. The town relies mainly on sales and hotel taxes plus state shared revenue.

What is the sales tax rate in Paradise Valley?
The combined retail sales tax rate in Paradise Valley is 8.8%: 5.6% state, 0.7% Maricopa County and 2.5% Town of Paradise Valley, per the Arizona Department of Revenue rate table effective October 1, 2026.

How big are the lots in Paradise Valley?
Most homes in Paradise Valley sit on lots of one acre or more. Residents incorporated the town in May 1961 largely to keep a one-house-per-acre minimum, and commercial uses are limited to ones that fit the residential setting. Ask me about zoning and hillside rules before you plan an addition or a rebuild.

Who provides police and fire service in Paradise Valley?
Paradise Valley has its own town Police Department, and fire and emergency medical service come from the Phoenix Fire Department under an agreement between the town and the City of Phoenix.

Who provides water and sewer in Paradise Valley?
Your water provider depends on your address: the town lists Berneil Water Company, City of Phoenix, City of Scottsdale and EPCOR. Many homes are on septic rather than sewer, and trash and recycling are handled by private haulers. Check the town's provider map and the septic details for any home you are considering. Also nearby: Moving to Scottsdale.

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.

Thinking about Paradise Valley?
Call Terry Day at DeLex Realty to compare lots, jurisdictions and utilities for any Paradise Valley address at 602-483-4665.

Town details come from the Town of Paradise Valley, the U.S. Census Bureau, the Arizona Commerce Authority, the City of Phoenix and other public sources and can change. Confirm zoning, utilities and school boundaries for a specific property before you buy.

Newest Paradise Valley Homes for Sale

5434 E Lincoln Drive Unit 29, Paradise Valley
$3,800,000
3 Beds ⋅ 3 Baths ⋅ 7103819 MLS ⋅ 2,928 SqFt.
Modern Desert Living in Paradise Valley Modern design blends with Southwestern influences in this three-bedroom, three-bathroom executive residence, rebuilt in 2017 and located in the guard-gated community of Colonia Miramonte in Paradise Valley. Wood doors open to a stone courtyard with a private patio, open sky, and glimpses of the surrounding mountains. The courtyard provides separate entrances to an ensuite guest casita and a private office. Inside, the great room features soaring ceilings, clerestory windows capturing mountain peaks and desert skies, wood flooring, metal-framed windows and doors, a fireplace, and a comfortable television viewing area. The open kitchen connects to the dining and living areas and features white system cabinetry designed for storage and organization, Wolf gas cooktop, ovens and microwave, Asko dishwasher, Sub-Zero refrigerator, and a glass backsplash. A large center island offers pendant lighting, a prep sink, and breakfast bar seating. A side patio off the kitchen provides a private setting for morning coffee. The rear patio frames an exceptional southern view of the iconic head of Camelback Mountain, with views toward Mummy Mountain to the north. Green lawns and desert landscaping, supported by a new drip irrigation system, surround the outdoor living areas. A built-in barbecue, outdoor television, surround sound, and wood-burning fire pit create an inviting setting for entertaining and enjoying Arizona evenings. This thoughtfully designed residence offers privacy, comfortable living spaces, and the convenience of a lock-and-leave lifestyle within a manned, guard-gated community. Located near the Camelback Inn and its resort amenities, the property is minutes from Paradise Valley's restaurants, shopping, and resorts. Modern architecture, Southwestern character, and remarkable mountain views come together in this distinctive Paradise Valley home.

5434 E Lincoln Drive Unit 29, Paradise Valley

5815 N Palo Cristi Road, Paradise Valley
$13,995,815
5 Beds ⋅ 7 Baths ⋅ 7103460 MLS ⋅ 8,006 SqFt.
Showcasing unobstructed views of iconic Camelback Mountain, this extraordinary custom estate by award-winning builder of the year Cullum Homes is anticipated for completion by the end of summer 2027. With 41 years of distinguished homebuilding experience, Cullum Homes brings its signature craftsmanship and thoughtful design to this remarkable residence. Designed to make a lasting impression, the estate will feature an impressive entertainer's courtyard framed by a six-car garage, creating a grand sense of arrival. A dramatic floor-to-ceiling glass entry will welcome you inside, with uninterrupted sightlines extending through the home and toward the expansive backyard, where a spectacular pool and mountain vistas create a stunning focal point. The thoughtfully envisioned residence will offer refined custom finishes, a separate pool house or guest casita, dedicated office space, and generously appointed living areas designed for both everyday comfort and exceptional entertaining. The outdoor experience will be equally impressive, with a luxurious pool, water's-edge spa, putting green, expansive event lawn, and outdoor kitchen, all set against the breathtaking backdrop of Camelback Mountain. A rare opportunity to experience the artistry of Cullum Homes in an extraordinary setting, where architectural distinction, generous entertaining spaces, and iconic mountain views come together to create something truly exceptional.

5815 N Palo Cristi Road, Paradise Valley

5738 N Casa Blanca Drive, Paradise Valley
$55,000,000
6 Beds ⋅ 19 Baths ⋅ 7102949 MLS ⋅ 23,417 SqFt.
Tucked down a treelined cobblestone path hidden between iconic Casa Blanca and Wilkinson lies this legacy privately gated custom build by Regal American, reimagined with a comprehensive $15 million-plus architectural, interior design, and landscape transformation in 2026 by Jaimee Rose Interiors and Berghoff Design Group. Spanning 23,417 sq ft with 6 bedrooms, 8 full baths, and 7 half baths, including attached guest quarters, showcases meticulous craftsmanship influenced by European travels including handcrafted plasterwork, rare Italian stone, centuries old olive trees, gym & wellness, indoor & outdoor pickle, underground bunker, and hidden speakeasy. This home must be experienced to understand the singular details with a backdrop panning soaring views of Camelback mountain. Offered fully furnished, the estate presents a thoughtfully curated collection of individually selected and commissioned pieces, including a bespoke Italian marble dining table, antiques sourced from Paris and Milan, and original artwork commissioned for the home. At the heart of the home, custom Officine Gullo kitchens unite timeless Italian craftsmanship with professional-grade culinary capabilities. Bronze countertops complement Italian marble and distinctive Ceppo Sicilia stone, while a fully equipped secondary catering kitchen, walk-in cooler, and freezer support entertaining on any scale. The primary suite is a private sanctuary featuring dual walk-in closets, separate vanities and private water closets, a freestanding soaking tub, expansive shower, private outdoor access, and dedicated laundry. A comprehensive wellness wing offers a private gym, massage and treatment room, red-light sauna, traditional dry sauna, and cold plunge. Additional amenities include a hidden-door speakeasy with wet bar, private soundproofed movie room, office, and thoughtfully designed children's quarters with a dedicated lounge/playroom, art room, and study spaces. The detached recreational barn features a 12-foot television display, HD Golf simulator, indoor sports and pickleball court, state-of-the-art shooting range, and underground concrete bunker/safe room. The attached 1,500 sq ft, two-bedroom guest quarters offer independent living accommodations complete with a private kitchen, laundry, and separate entrance. With sweeping views of Camelback Mountain, Praying Monk, and Mummy Mountain, the estate's grounds have been transformed by Berghoff Design Group. Sculptural 150-year-old olive trees, imported blue cobblestone, antique French horse troughs, meticulously designed gardens, intimate courtyards with a hidden hot tub, and private walking paths create a setting of beauty and seclusion. The outdoor living experience unfolds around a resort-style pool and spa, sculptural Splinterworks waterslide with underground chiller, ramada with firepit and bar, custom-built Piaggio Ape pizza truck imported from Italy, outdoor Officine Gullo kitchen and BBQ facilities, pickleball and sport court, greenhouse, in-ground trampoline, and dedicated pool bath with outdoor shower. The 9-car garage configuration includes a 4-car main garage with EV charger and 5-car secondary garage, with 14-foot clearance accommodating oversized luxury vehicles and Sprinter vans. A dedicated drive-through RV/Sprinter bay adds another dimension of functionality. Sophisticated whole-home automation and discreetly integrated technology are complemented by extensive Deep Sentinel 24/7 live human monitoring surveillance and advanced security infrastructure. Casa Blanca stands in a category of its own.

5738 N Casa Blanca Drive, Paradise Valley

6601 E San Miguel Avenue, Paradise Valley
$12,000,000
7 Beds ⋅ 9 Baths ⋅ 7102793 MLS ⋅ 9,550 SqFt.
Positioned along one of Paradise Valley's most prestigious enclaves, this privately gated 1.1 acre estate showcases uninterrupted panoramic views of Camelback Mountain, including the iconic Praying Monk. Designed to maximize natural light, volume, and seamless indoor-outdoor living, the residence offers a refined blend of modern elegance and resort-style amenities. The main home features 5 bedrooms, 5.5 bathrooms, detached guest house, office, and a bonus/flex room. The 1,330 sq ft detached guest house provides 2 bedrooms, 2.5 bathrooms, a full kitchen, and private laundry-perfect for multi-generational living or hosting guests. Inside, soaring ceilings, expansive walls of glass, and wide-plank oak flooring create a bright, open atmosphere. The great room serves as the centerpiece, highlighted by dramatic sliding glass doors and a sleek marble fireplace, effortlessly connecting to the outdoor living spaces. The open-concept kitchen, dining, and living areas are designed for both everyday living and elevated entertaining. The chef's kitchen is equipped with premium Wolf and Sub-Zero appliances, a gas range, dual ovens and dishwashers, built-in coffee and ice makers, and a striking climate-controlled wine wall. The primary suite offers a serene retreat with tranquil views and private access to the backyard, along with a spa-inspired bathroom featuring a sculptural stone soaking tub, oversized steam shower, dual vanities, custom wood cabinetry with abundant storage, and a private water closet. Outdoors, the showstopping custom pool and spa include an extended lap lane, surrounded by multiple lounging and dining areas, fire features, and a covered steel-and-wood patio with a fully equipped outdoor kitchen. Added amenities include a pickleball court and putting green. Additional highlights include a 6-car garage and a prime location just minutes from Arizona's premier resorts, spas, fine dining, and shopping.

6601 E San Miguel Avenue, Paradise Valley

6233 E Indian Bend Road, Paradise Valley
$8,500,000
5 Beds ⋅ 7 Baths ⋅ 7102721 MLS ⋅ 7,956 SqFt.
Commanding unobstructed panoramic views of Camelback Mountain and Mummy Mountain, this gated Paradise Valley estate is situated on over an acre of prime desert landscape. Rich in architectural character, the 7,956 sq ft residence offers 5 bedrooms, 6 full bathrooms, a private office, and a detached guest house. From the moment of entry, dramatic coffered ceilings, graceful architectural archways, and soaring French doors establish an impressive sense of scale and sophistication. Reclaimed oak hardwood flooring, natural limestone, extensive custom millwork, and six fireplaces bring warmth, texture, and timeless character throughout. The thoughtfully designed living spaces capture breathtaking mountain vistas, from the formal dining room to the open-concept living area and gourmet kitchen, appointed with Wolf and Sub-Zero appliances, casual dining areas, and a walk-in pantry. A richly detailed private office features custom wood ceilings and built-in cabinetry. Designed to embrace Arizona's exceptional indoor-outdoor lifestyle, the estate features expansive travertine-finished terraces, covered and open-air patios, and a private balcony, all set against the dramatic mountain backdrop. A custom pool, spa, and outdoor shower create a resort-inspired setting for relaxation and entertaining. The detached one-bedroom guest house offers exceptional privacy and comfort, complete with a spacious living room, kitchen, and private outdoor patio. Additional highlights include a four-car garage, integrated Savant home automation, and an extensive multi-camera security system. Nestled into the desert mountainside and surrounded by lush, mature landscaping, this remarkable estate offers a rare combination of architectural grandeur, privacy, and breathtaking natural beauty.

6233 E Indian Bend Road, Paradise Valley

9012 N 53rd Street, Paradise Valley
$6,750,000
5 Beds ⋅ 6 Baths ⋅ 7102712 MLS ⋅ 6,697 SqFt.
A striking expression of modern desert luxury, this exceptional 2024 Paradise Valley estate sits on a sprawling one-acre lot, masterfully brought to life by Bespoke Development in collaboration with acclaimed architect Erik Peterson of PHX Architecture. Spanning 6,697 sqft, the thoughtfully designed split floor plan offers 5 beds and 5.5 baths, with expansive walls of glass that disappear to create a seamless connection between the interiors and resort-inspired grounds. At the heart of the home, a beautifully appointed chef's kitchen features premium Sub-Zero and Wolf appliances, dual Cove dishwashers, a Nugget ice machine, custom Burdette cabinetry, and a pocketing pass-through window connecting directly to the outdoor BBQ area. The private primary retreat captures stunning mountain and pool views and features a spa-inspired bath with dual toilets, two expansive walk-in closets, and private laundry. Each additional bedroom offers an ensuite bathroom and walk-in closet, while a separate guest suite provides ideal accommodations for multigenerational living or visiting family and friends. Outdoors, a spectacular 64-foot infinity-edge pool, spa, and outdoor shower set the stage for effortless Arizona living. Expansive covered patios, a built-in BBQ station, thoughtfully designed desert landscaping, and low-maintenance turf create inviting spaces for year-round entertaining. A four-car temperature-controlled garage with stackable height capability completes the residence. Recent upgrades include indoor and outdoor Sonos audio across 8 zones, enterprise-grade network, Lutron lighting and motorized shades, and a water softener. Ideally situated in the heart of Paradise Valley, just moments from world-class resorts, championship golf, fine dining, luxury shopping, and entertainment, this architectural residence offers an exceptional blend of design, comfort, and lifestyle.

9012 N 53rd Street, Paradise Valley

6824 E Hummingbird Lane, Paradise Valley
$15,000,000
5 Beds ⋅ 7 Baths ⋅ 7102699 MLS ⋅ 7,757 SqFt.
Privately situated on 1.3 acres with captivating views of Mummy Mountain, this newly completed 2025 estate offers every audio visual and lighting enhancement imaginable, equally suited for intimate everyday living and grand-scale entertaining. Soaring 15-foot ceilings, expansive interiors, and meticulous attention to detail define this 5-bed, 7-bath residence. Every element has been carefully considered, from the sophisticated Miele-equipped kitchen to the seamless integration of advanced smart-home technology throughout. Designed for an exceptional lifestyle, the home features a private cinema, temperature-controlled wine cellar, entertainer's bar, fitness studio, and a luxurious primary retreat complete with a steam room. A separate 1-bedroom guest house, complete with its own living. beverage center, offers a private retreat for visitors and the flexibility for multigenerational living or a dedicated workspace. Outdoors, the grounds unfold into a spectacular private resort. An expansive pool, illuminated pickleball court, putting green, outdoor entertainment wall, multiple fire and water features, and an elevated viewing deck create an extraordinary setting for recreation, relaxation, and entertaining against the backdrop of the Arizona sky. Complete with an expansive motor court, 5 car garage, and comprehensive integrated security, this remarkable estate presents a rare opportunity to experience the finest in contemporary Paradise Valley living.

6824 E Hummingbird Lane, Paradise Valley

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