Nestled in the picturesque town of Cave Creek, Arizona, Tatum Highlands stands as one of the Northeast Valley’s most prestigious and sought-after residential communities. As a broker with West USA Realty, I’ve had the privilege of helping countless families discover the exceptional quality of life that this master-planned community offers, combining the tranquility of desert living with convenient access to Phoenix’s metropolitan amenities.
Tatum Highlands represents thoughtful urban development at its finest, carefully planned to create an exceptional living environment that harmoniously blends with the natural Sonoran Desert landscape. Located between Tatum Boulevard to the east and 40th Street to the west, with Jomax Road serving as both a northern and southern boundary, this community encompasses 1,400 homes across multiple distinctive neighborhoods, each maintaining its own character while contributing to the cohesive community aesthetic.
Tatum Highlands showcases the combined expertise of eight respected home builders, creating an impressive diversity of architectural styles that appeal to varied tastes and preferences. The community features homes constructed by UDC, Ryland, Saddleback, Diamond Star, Maracay, TW Lewis, Golden Heritage, and Coventry, ensuring a rich variety of design options and price points.
The architectural diversity within Tatum Highlands demonstrates a sophisticated mix of contemporary Southwest and traditional Mediterranean-inspired designs, creating streetscapes that are both visually appealing and functionally superior. Each neighborhood features unique characteristics while maintaining cohesive community aesthetics through thoughtful architectural guidelines that preserve property values and ensure long-term appeal.
Most homes within Tatum Highlands range from 1,500 to 3,500 square feet, offering options for first-time homebuyers, growing families, and those seeking spacious luxury residences. The community includes:
The development began its evolution through multiple carefully orchestrated phases, maintaining consistent quality standards while allowing for natural growth and community maturation. This phased approach has enabled Tatum Highlands to develop organically while preserving the desert character that makes the area so desirable.
The heart of community recreation in Tatum Highlands is John Teets Park, a large community park that serves as a central gathering place for residents. This expansive facility features:
The park serves as the focal point for community events, from seasonal celebrations to youth sports leagues, fostering the strong sense of community that defines Tatum Highlands.
Tatum Highlands residents enjoy proximity to the prestigious Tatum Ranch Golf Club, a private championship golf course that serves as the crown jewel of recreational amenities in the area. Designed by renowned architect Robert E. Cupp, this par-72 course offers:
The clubhouse provides comprehensive amenities including:
Tatum Highlands’ location provides residents with exceptional access to outdoor recreation opportunities:
The community’s proximity to Cave Creek Regional Park and other protected desert areas ensures residents can enjoy outdoor activities year-round while experiencing the natural beauty of the Sonoran Desert.
Tatum Highlands is served by the Cave Creek Unified School District, an A+ excelling school district renowned for its academic excellence and comprehensive educational programs. The district consistently ranks among Arizona’s top-performing school systems, making it a primary draw for families seeking quality education.
Students in Tatum Highlands attend some of the area’s most highly-rated schools:
Elementary Schools:
Middle Schools:
High Schools:
Homes in Tatum Highlands south of Jomax Road are served by the Paradise Valley Unified School District, another highly-rated district offering:
Both school districts offer:
The availability of two excellent school districts provides Tatum Highlands families with educational options that consistently exceed state and national averages.
Tatum Highlands residents enjoy convenient access to Desert Ridge Marketplace, one of Arizona’s premier outdoor shopping destinations. This 2-million-square-foot retail complex offers:
Adjacent to Desert Ridge Marketplace, High Street provides additional shopping and dining options:
The charming town of Cave Creek offers numerous local attractions:
Tatum Highlands is conveniently located near several shopping centers:
Tatum Highlands offers exceptional connectivity to the broader Phoenix metropolitan area while maintaining its desirable desert community character.
The community provides easy access to major Valley thoroughfares:
Tatum Highlands’ strategic location offers convenient access to:
Residents have convenient access to world-class healthcare facilities:
The Tatum Highlands Community Association provides professional management and oversight of community standards, ensuring:
Tatum Highlands residents enjoy the unique benefits of high desert living:
According to residents, Tatum Highlands is characterized by:
The community’s 5,015 residents enjoy an active lifestyle with interests including home improvement, gardening, hiking, cooking, and community involvement.
Tatum Highlands represents an excellent investment opportunity in one of the Northeast Valley’s most desirable communities. The combination of:
These factors contribute to strong property values and consistent appreciation over time. The community’s median home prices and low turnover rates reflect the desirability and investment strength of Tatum Highlands real estate.
Whether you’re seeking a family home with access to excellent schools, a desert retreat with mountain views, or a golf course community lifestyle, Tatum Highlands offers exceptional opportunities for discerning homebuyers. The community’s perfect blend of small-town charm and metropolitan convenience creates an unmatched living experience in one of Arizona’s most desirable locations.
From the championship golf at Tatum Ranch Golf Club to the world-class shopping at Desert Ridge Marketplace, from the excellent schools to the endless recreation opportunities, Tatum Highlands provides everything needed for the complete Arizona lifestyle.
As your dedicated real estate professional, I’m here to help you explore the exceptional homes and lifestyle opportunities available in Tatum Highlands. My extensive knowledge of the Cave Creek area and the Northeast Valley, combined with my commitment to exceptional service, ensures you’ll find the perfect home to match your vision of desert living.
Contact Carl Chapman today at 602-617-4440 to schedule your private tour of Tatum Highlands and discover why this exceptional community continues to attract families and professionals seeking the finest in Arizona living.
Premier builders like Toll Brothers and Richmond American Homes have contributed significantly to Tatum Highlands' reputation for quality construction. Home prices in the community range from the mid $500,000s to over $1.5 million, reflecting various sizes and locations. The real estate market in Tatum Highlands has shown consistent appreciation, outperforming many comparable Phoenix metropolitan communities over the past decade. Property options include spacious single-family homes, luxury estates, and select upscale townhome developments that cater to different lifestyle preferences. Current market trends indicate strong demand, with homes typically selling within 30 days of listing at competitive prices. The community maintains high property values through strict architectural controls and well-maintained common areas and amenities.
Students in Tatum Highlands benefit from access to the highly-rated Paradise Valley Unified School District's excellent educational facilities. The community is served by Wildfire Elementary School, Desert Trails Middle School, and Pinnacle High School, all known for academic excellence. Educational opportunities are enhanced by specialized programs including advanced placement courses, STEM initiatives, and comprehensive arts education. Local schools maintain strong partnerships with parents and the community, creating an engaging learning environment for students. Private education options nearby include Paradise Valley Christian School and BASIS Phoenix, offering alternative educational approaches. The area's schools consistently receive high ratings for both academic performance and extracurricular activities.
The community features multiple parks and recreational areas, designed to promote an active outdoor lifestyle for residents of all ages. State-of-the-art fitness facilities and swimming pools provide year-round opportunities for exercise and family recreation within the neighborhood. Walking and biking trails wind through the development, connecting various neighborhoods while offering stunning views of the surrounding mountains. The nearby Tatum Ranch Golf Club offers championship golf, social events, and dining opportunities for both members and guests. Community gathering spaces include modern playgrounds, basketball courts, and picnic areas that foster neighborhood connections and activities. Multiple pocket parks throughout the development ensure that green spaces are always within walking distance of every home.
Desert Ridge Marketplace, located minutes away, offers an extensive selection of retail shops, restaurants, and entertainment venues for residents. Local dining options range from casual eateries to upscale restaurants, featuring diverse cuisines that satisfy various culinary preferences. The nearby Musical Instrument Museum and Desert Botanical Garden provide unique cultural experiences within easy driving distance. High Street, an upscale shopping and dining destination, presents additional options for entertainment and social gatherings. Movie theaters, live music venues, and art galleries in the vicinity ensure residents have access to diverse entertainment choices. The community's location provides convenient access to both local boutiques and major retail centers.
Strategic placement near Loop 101 and SR 51 provides residents with excellent access to greater Phoenix metropolitan areas. The average commute to downtown Phoenix takes approximately 25 minutes, while Scottsdale's business district is accessible within 20 minutes. Public transportation options include Valley Metro bus service with stops conveniently located throughout the neighborhood for commuter convenience. Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport lies just 25 minutes away, making travel arrangements incredibly convenient for residents. Major employment centers in North Phoenix and Scottsdale are easily accessible via multiple transportation routes. The community's thoughtful layout includes wide streets and multiple access points to facilitate smooth traffic flow.
The Phoenix Police Department's Desert Horizon Precinct provides dedicated law enforcement services to the Tatum Highlands community. Response times for emergency services average under five minutes, thanks to nearby fire and police stations. The active neighborhood watch program coordinates closely with local law enforcement to maintain community safety and security. Security measures include regular patrols, well-lit streets, and strategic placement of security cameras in common areas. The community maintains lower crime rates compared to surrounding areas due to proactive security measures and resident involvement. Emergency preparedness plans are regularly updated and communicated to residents through the homeowners association.
HonorHealth Scottsdale Thompson Peak Medical Center, located just minutes away, provides comprehensive medical services to community residents. Multiple urgent care facilities within a five-mile radius ensure quick access to medical care for non-emergency situations. The Mayo Clinic Hospital, renowned for specialized medical care, is conveniently located within a 15-minute drive. Local medical offices house various specialists, including pediatricians, dentists, and family practice physicians serving the community. Mental health services and wellness centers in the vicinity offer holistic healthcare options for residents. Emergency response capabilities are enhanced by the presence of a fire station within the community.
The Phoenix Sonoran Preserve borders the community, offering extensive hiking and mountain biking trails for outdoor enthusiasts. Residents enjoy year-round outdoor activities thanks to the area's favorable climate and well-maintained recreational facilities. Community parks feature exercise stations, children's play areas, and open spaces for various sporting activities and social gatherings. The nearby Cave Creek Recreation Area provides additional opportunities for outdoor adventure and nature appreciation. Local sporting leagues and fitness classes promote an active lifestyle while fostering community connections among residents. The community's design incorporates desert landscaping that complements the natural environment while providing aesthetic appeal.
The desert climate offers over 300 days of sunshine annually, perfect for outdoor activities and social gatherings. Winter temperatures typically range from the mid-40s to mid-70s Fahrenheit, while summer highs can reach the low 100s. The area experiences minimal rainfall, primarily during the summer monsoon season, contributing to the region's unique desert ecosystem. Low humidity levels throughout most of the year create comfortable conditions for outdoor activities during morning and evening hours. The community's elevated location provides slightly cooler temperatures compared to central Phoenix areas during summer months. Seasonal temperature variations allow residents to enjoy outdoor amenities and activities throughout most of the year.
Property taxes in Tatum Highlands remain competitive compared to similar master-planned communities in the Phoenix metropolitan area. The homeowners association maintains reasonable fees while providing extensive community amenities and services to all residents. Utility costs reflect the desert climate, with higher summer electricity usage offset by minimal heating requirements during winter months. The community's location within Phoenix city limits provides access to municipal services while maintaining relatively moderate tax rates. Insurance rates benefit from the area's low flood risk and excellent emergency service coverage. Investment in energy-efficient home features and desert landscaping helps manage long-term maintenance and utility costs.
Major employers in the vicinity include Mayo Clinic, American Express, and numerous technology companies in the North Phoenix corridor. The area continues to attract new businesses and corporate relocations, creating additional employment opportunities for residents. Economic indicators suggest sustained growth in the region, supported by Arizona's business-friendly environment and expanding population. The community's location provides easy access to multiple business districts, including the Paradise Valley and Desert Ridge areas. Professional opportunities span various sectors, from healthcare and technology to finance and education services. The robust job market contributes to stable property values and continued community development.