Kierland stands as one of North Scottsdale’s most coveted master-planned communities, representing the pinnacle of luxury desert living. As an Associate Broker with West USA Realty, I’ve had the privilege of guiding countless clients through this remarkable 730-acre community that perfectly embodies the modern Scottsdale lifestyle.
Developed by the renowned Woodbine Development Corporation, Kierland began as a visionary project in the early 1990s when Woodbine Development Corporation acquired the sizable parcel of land from the Herberger family, who had held the property since the 1950s. The ambitious master plan was unanimously approved in 1991, marking the largest rezoning case in Phoenix’s history at the time. This groundbreaking development has since become the gold standard for mixed-use communities throughout the Southwest.
Located strategically on the border of Phoenix and Scottsdale at the north end of Scottsdale Road’s resort corridor, Kierland offers residents an unparalleled combination of luxury living, world-class amenities, and unmatched convenience to the Valley’s finest shopping, dining, and recreation.
Kierland features approximately 430 acres of thoughtfully planned residential neighborhoods, showcasing the work of respected builders who have created a diverse portfolio of housing options to suit every lifestyle preference.
UDC Homes built the majority of Kierland’s single-family homes between 1995 and 1998, creating an impressive collection of residences ranging from 1,600 to 3,500 square feet. These homes feature both single-level and two-story floor plans, incorporating contemporary desert design elements with Mediterranean influences that complement the stunning Sonoran Desert landscape.
The community also features exceptional townhome communities built by premier builders. Kierland Heritage, developed by Cachet Homes between 1997 and 1999, offers one- and two-story townhomes ranging from 1,600 to 2,400 square feet. Kierland Greens, built by Centex Homes between 1998 and 2000, features apartment-style townhomes from 1,100 to 2,200 square feet. Both communities enjoy the privilege of backing onto the Kierland Golf Club.
For those seeking ultra-luxury urban living, The Plaza Lofts at Kierland represent the pinnacle of sophistication. Built between 2005 and 2008, these contemporary loft buildings sit above Kierland Commons and offer residences ranging from 1,100 to 3,900 square feet. Recent additions include Optima Kierland, featuring three buildings of luxury high-rise condominiums on the northeast corner of Kierland Commons, and various luxury apartment communities throughout the area.
At the heart of Kierland’s recreation offerings lies The Westin Kierland Golf Club, a magnificent 27-hole championship facility designed by renowned golf course architect Scott Miller. This Troon Golf-managed property features three distinct nine-hole courses: Acacia, Mesquite, and Ironwood, each named for the beautiful desert trees that line the fairways.
The golf club offers players the unique opportunity to mix and match any two nines for a custom 18-hole golf experience. The Acacia course features 3,435 yards from the longest tees, the Mesquite course stretches 3,478 yards, and the Ironwood course offers 3,539 yards of challenging desert golf. Together, these courses provide a par-72, 6,900-yard golf experience that has earned recognition as one of the “Top 10 Public Courses in Phoenix/Scottsdale” by Golf Advisor and “America’s 9 Most Cheerful Golf Courses” by Golf Digest.
The golf club is distinguished as one of the select courses in Arizona recognized by Audubon International’s Cooperative Sanctuary Program, promoting ecologically sound land management and conservation of natural resources. The facility includes a fully staffed golf shop, state-of-the-art practice facility, and fitness training system to help golfers improve their game.
The Westin Kierland Resort & Spa serves as the community’s crown jewel, opening in 2002 as the centerpiece of the 730-acre development. This award-winning resort, designed by Hill Glazier Architects of Palo Alto, California, and interior designer Barry Design Associates of Los Angeles, embraces the theme “The Essence of Arizona.”
The resort features Agave, The Arizona Spa & Salon, offering treatments inspired by traditional practices from Arizona’s native cultures. The spa provides a refined rejuvenation experience with healing traditions from around the world. For families, the resort’s water park and recreation facilities create memorable experiences for residents and guests alike.
Kierland residents enjoy immediate access to some of Arizona’s most spectacular outdoor recreation opportunities. McDowell Sonoran Preserve, located just minutes from the community, encompasses over 30,000 acres of permanently protected Sonoran Desert habitat with more than 225 miles of interconnected trails for hiking, biking, and horseback riding.
Popular preserve trails include the Gateway Loop Trail, a moderate 4.5-mile loop offering stunning desert scenery, and Tom’s Thumb Trail, which provides breathtaking views of the southern McDowell Mountains and urban Phoenix. The Bajada Nature Trail offers an easy introduction to desert hiking with educational signs about the unique Sonoran Desert ecosystem.
McDowell Mountain Regional Park, managed by Maricopa County Parks & Recreation, provides additional outdoor recreation opportunities with camping, nature programs, and extensive trail systems perfect for exploring the desert landscape.
Kierland is served by the highly-rated Paradise Valley Unified School District, consistently ranked among Arizona’s top-performing districts. The district serves students with 30 elementary schools, seven middle schools, five high schools, and various specialty programs.
Desert Springs Preparatory Elementary School is conveniently located within the Kierland neighborhood, offering exceptional educational opportunities with strong academic performance. The school consistently scores above district and state averages, with 62% of students scoring at or above proficient level for reading and 56% for math, compared to the district averages of 50% for reading and 45% for math.
Students progress to Desert Shadows Middle School at 5858 East Sweetwater Avenue, which provides a comprehensive middle school education with diverse academic and extracurricular programs. The school continues the district’s commitment to excellence with 52% of students scoring at or above proficient level for reading and 47% for math.
Horizon High School, home of the Huskies, serves as the designated high school for Kierland students. Located at 5601 East Greenway Road, Horizon High offers comprehensive academic programs, multiple choir courses, Career and Technical Education (CTE) programs including marketing, graphic design, and photography, and extensive extracurricular activities.
The Paradise Valley Unified School District spends $9,649 per student annually and maintains a strong reputation with 51% of high school students testing at or above proficient levels for reading and 45% for math, demonstrating the district’s commitment to academic excellence.
Kierland Commons holds the distinction of being Arizona’s first lifestyle center, representing a 700,000-square-foot, Main Street-inspired development that serves as the community gathering place. This 38-acre outdoor shopping destination is home to over 80 specialty retailers, exquisite dining establishments, entertainment venues, and office space.
Notable retailers include Anthropologie, Banana Republic, BCBG Max Azria, Coach, Crate & Barrel, ECCO, Eileen Fisher, ALO Yoga, Athleta, Evereve, Madewell, and Vuori. The center also features exclusive-to-Arizona brands including Chanel Fragrance & Beauty Boutique, Johnnie-O, Malbon Golf, Mizzen+Main, and Wilson Sporting Goods.
Kierland Commons offers an impressive collection of dining establishments ranging from casual to fine dining. Mastro’s Ocean Club provides an upscale steakhouse experience, while North Italia offers contemporary Italian cuisine in a vibrant atmosphere. Tommy Bahama Restaurant & Bar combines island-inspired dining with a relaxed tropical ambiance, and Postino Winecafé offers an intimate wine bar experience. Zinc Bistro rounds out the dining options with French-inspired cuisine and an extensive wine selection.
The Kierland Golf Club features its own dining experiences, including the Brittlebush Bar and Grill, which offers sweeping mountain and golf course views along with exceptional cuisine in a resort setting.
Just across Scottsdale Road from Kierland Commons, Scottsdale Quarter provides additional high-end shopping and dining options. This outdoor lifestyle center features prominent retailers including Apple Store, Lululemon, Urban Outfitters, Pottery Barn, and American Girl. Dining options include Dominick’s Steakhouse, True Food Kitchen, and Mason’s Famous Lobster Rolls.
Kierland’s central location provides easy access to Scottsdale Quarter‘s entertainment venues and cultural attractions. The community’s proximity to Old Town Scottsdale ensures residents can enjoy the Valley’s premier arts district, featuring galleries, museums, and entertainment venues within a short drive.
WestWorld of Scottsdale, located nearby, hosts major equestrian events, car shows, and cultural festivals throughout the year, providing year-round entertainment options for residents.
Kierland residents benefit from proximity to some of the Valley’s finest healthcare facilities. HonorHealth Scottsdale Shea Medical Center and Mayo Clinic Hospital provide world-class medical care within minutes of the community. The area also features numerous professional medical practices, ensuring comprehensive healthcare services are readily accessible.
The community’s location along the Scottsdale Road corridor provides easy access to professional services, financial institutions, and business centers, making it an ideal choice for business professionals and retirees alike.
Kierland’s strategic location offers unparalleled connectivity throughout the Phoenix metropolitan area. The community sits just minutes from Loop 101, providing direct access to Sky Harbor International Airport, downtown Phoenix, and other Valley destinations.
Scottsdale Road serves as the community’s main thoroughfare, connecting residents to both north and south Scottsdale attractions. The Scottsdale Trolley system provides convenient transportation to Old Town Scottsdale and other popular destinations, reducing the need for personal vehicle use for leisure activities.
Kierland represents more than just a place to live—it embodies a lifestyle that seamlessly blends luxury, convenience, and community. From the championship golf courses designed by Scott Miller to the world-class shopping at Kierland Commons, every aspect of this master-planned community has been thoughtfully designed to enhance residents’ quality of life.
Whether you’re drawn to the single-family homes built by UDC, the luxury townhomes of Kierland Heritage and Kierland Greens, or the sophisticated urban living offered by The Plaza Lofts, Kierland provides housing options to suit every lifestyle preference and life stage.
The community’s location within the Paradise Valley Unified School District ensures access to excellent educational opportunities, while the proximity to McDowell Sonoran Preserve and McDowell Mountain Regional Park provides endless outdoor recreation possibilities.
As your trusted real estate advisor with West USA Realty, I invite you to discover why Kierland continues to be one of North Scottsdale’s most sought-after addresses. From the luxury and convenience of Kierland Commons to the resort-style amenities of The Westin Kierland Resort & Spa, this remarkable community offers an unmatched quality of life in the heart of Scottsdale’s premier resort corridor.
Ready to explore the exceptional lifestyle opportunities in Kierland? Contact Carl Chapman at 602-617-4440 to schedule your private tour and discover why Kierland stands as the premier choice for discerning buyers seeking the ultimate in Scottsdale luxury living.
Kierland's real estate market features properties constructed by respected builders like Toll Brothers and Taylor Morrison Homes. Current home prices in Kierland range from the high $600,000s for condominiums to over $3 million for luxury estates. The community has demonstrated strong appreciation, with property values increasing an average of 6% annually over the past decade. Housing options include single-family homes, luxury condominiums, townhouses, and exclusive villa residences within gated enclaves of the community. The current market inventory typically includes 20-30 active listings, with properties spending an average of 45 days on market. Kierland's property values have consistently outperformed the broader Phoenix metropolitan area, making it an attractive investment opportunity. The price per square foot averages $375-450, reflecting the premium quality and desirable location of the community.
Students in Kierland benefit from access to the highly-rated Paradise Valley Unified School District's exceptional educational facilities. The nearby Copper Canyon Elementary School has earned numerous academic achievement awards and maintains strong parent-teacher collaboration programs. Cherokee Elementary School, consistently ranked among Arizona's top public schools, offers advanced placement programs and innovative STEM initiatives. Desert Shadows Middle School provides comprehensive academic programs alongside extensive extracurricular activities that enhance student development. Private education options include the prestigious Phoenix Country Day School, which maintains a 100% college acceptance rate. The community's location provides easy access to supplemental education resources, including specialized tutoring centers and enrichment programs. Several highly regarded Montessori and college preparatory schools offer additional choices for discerning families.
The crown jewel of Kierland's amenities is the acclaimed Kierland Golf Club, featuring 27 holes of championship golf designed by Scott Miller. The community boasts multiple resort-style pools, including a spectacular zero-entry pool with private cabanas and a dedicated lap pool. State-of-the-art fitness facilities offer the latest equipment, personal training services, and diverse group exercise programs throughout the year. The Kierland Commons provides residents with exclusive access to private events, social gatherings, and seasonal community celebrations. Tennis enthusiasts enjoy professional-grade courts with night lighting and organized leagues for all skill levels. The community's walking trails wind through meticulously landscaped grounds, connecting various neighborhoods and recreational areas.
The prestigious Kierland Commons and Scottsdale Quarter offer an impressive collection of upscale boutiques, designer stores, and national retailers. Local dining options range from casual cafes to fine dining establishments, including notable restaurants like Mastro's Ocean Club. The area features an exciting mix of entertainment venues, including outdoor concert spaces and intimate performance theaters. Popular happy hour destinations and wine bars create a vibrant social scene for residents and visitors alike. The community's central location provides easy access to Scottsdale's renowned art galleries and cultural attractions. Weekend farmers' markets and seasonal food festivals bring additional variety to the neighborhood's dining scene.
Kierland's strategic location offers convenient access to the Loop 101 Freeway and major arterial roads throughout Scottsdale. Residents enjoy relatively short commute times, with downtown Phoenix accessible within 25 minutes during normal traffic conditions. The community provides easy access to Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport, typically reached in under 30 minutes. Local transit options include dedicated rideshare pickup locations and professional car services throughout the community. The area features extensive bike lanes and pedestrian-friendly pathways connecting major destinations within the neighborhood. Electric vehicle owners benefit from numerous charging stations strategically placed throughout Kierland's commercial areas.
Kierland maintains an exemplary safety record with crime rates significantly lower than the Phoenix metropolitan average. The Scottsdale Police Department maintains a strong presence in the area, with regular patrols and quick response times. The community benefits from state-of-the-art security systems, including monitored access points and surveillance cameras in common areas. Professional security teams provide 24/7 coverage throughout the residential and commercial sections of Kierland. Neighborhood watch programs actively engage residents in maintaining the community's safety and security standards. Emergency response times average under four minutes, ensuring rapid assistance when needed.
HonorHealth Scottsdale Thompson Peak Medical Center, located just minutes away, provides comprehensive medical services and emergency care. The community is surrounded by numerous specialty medical practices, offering convenient access to healthcare professionals across various disciplines. Mayo Clinic's renowned medical facility is within a 15-minute drive, providing world-class healthcare options for residents. Several urgent care centers operate extended hours, ensuring access to medical care for non-emergency situations. Mental health services and wellness centers offer a full spectrum of therapeutic and preventive care options. The area's medical infrastructure includes multiple pharmacies, medical supply stores, and rehabilitation facilities.
Kierland's extensive network of walking trails provides over 10 miles of scenic paths for outdoor exercise and recreation. The community's location offers easy access to the McDowell Sonoran Preserve, featuring numerous hiking and mountain biking trails. Residents enjoy year-round outdoor activities thanks to Arizona's favorable climate and Kierland's thoughtfully designed outdoor spaces. The community features several pocket parks and green spaces perfect for picnics and casual outdoor gatherings. Outdoor fitness stations along the walking trails encourage active lifestyles and community interaction. The nearby Pinnacle Peak Park offers additional opportunities for hiking and rock climbing adventures.
Kierland hosts regular community events, including seasonal festivals, holiday celebrations, and outdoor concert series throughout the year. The active homeowners association organizes numerous social gatherings, fostering a strong sense of community among residents. Regular farmers' markets bring local vendors and artisans to the community, creating vibrant weekend gathering spaces. Community volunteer programs connect residents with local charitable organizations and meaningful service opportunities. The Kierland Master Association maintains high standards for property maintenance while organizing engaging community activities. Social clubs cater to various interests, from book clubs to wine tasting groups.
Kierland enjoys over 300 days of sunshine annually, with winter daytime temperatures averaging a pleasant 70 degrees Fahrenheit. Summer months bring warm temperatures, typically ranging from 90 to 105 degrees during peak afternoon hours. The area's low humidity levels create comfortable conditions for outdoor activities during morning and evening hours. Spring and fall seasons offer perfect weather for golf, tennis, and other outdoor recreational activities. The community's desert location experiences minimal rainfall, averaging only eight inches annually. Careful landscape design incorporates shade structures and water features to enhance outdoor comfort year-round.
Kierland's comprehensive zoning regulations ensure consistent community standards and protect property values throughout the neighborhood. The master-planned community maintains strict architectural guidelines that preserve the area's aesthetic appeal and character. Regular updates to building codes and safety regulations reflect the latest standards in residential construction and safety. Natural hazard risks are minimal, with the community situated outside major flood zones and wildfire-prone areas. Future development plans focus on sustainable growth while maintaining the community's premium standards and amenities. The homeowners association provides clear guidelines for property modifications and improvements.
Major employers within close proximity include numerous financial institutions, healthcare facilities, and technology companies in the Greater Phoenix area. The local job market benefits from Arizona's business-friendly environment and continued expansion of corporate operations in Scottsdale. Employment opportunities continue to grow with the development of new office complexes and retail centers nearby. The area's strong tourism industry provides additional economic stability and employment options throughout the year. Several major corporations have established regional headquarters within minutes of Kierland, creating professional opportunities for residents. The community's location within the "Silicon Desert" offers access to emerging technology sector positions.
Property taxes in Kierland remain competitive compared to similar luxury communities in the Phoenix metropolitan area. The community's HOA fees provide excellent value, covering extensive amenities and maintaining high-quality common areas throughout the year. Utility costs typically range below the Phoenix metropolitan average due to energy-efficient home designs and community features. Investment in solar energy and sustainable practices helps manage long-term utility expenses for many residents. The area's strong property values and consistent appreciation rates provide excellent long-term investment potential. Insurance rates benefit from the community's low crime rates and minimal natural hazard risks.
The City of Scottsdale provides exemplary municipal services, maintaining high standards for public infrastructure and community support. Efficient waste management services include regular collection, recycling programs, and seasonal bulk pickup options for residents. The local government actively engages with the community through town halls and online platforms to address residents' concerns. Professional landscaping services maintain common areas to the highest standards throughout all seasons of the year. The city's planning department works closely with the community to ensure thoughtful development and infrastructure improvements. Municipal services include regular street maintenance, prompt snow removal during rare winter events, and responsive emergency services.