A neighborhood-by-neighborhood look at crime rates, walkability, and what locals say about life on foot in Scottsdale. Is Scottsdale safe for walking? Let’s find out!
When it comes to walkability and peace of mind, people want to know: is Scottsdale safe for walking? Scottsdale consistently ranks as one of Arizona’s safest cities—especially for pedestrians. Whether you’re headed out for a morning walk through McCormick Ranch or exploring Old Town after dinner, safety is likely on your mind. And while stats tell one part of the story, day-to-day experiences in each neighborhood paint the full picture.
Let’s take a closer look at what you can expect when it comes to pedestrian safety in Scottsdale—backed by data and local insight.
Crime Statistics and Local Safety
Recent crime data shows that Scottsdale’s overall crime rate sits around 49.5 incidents per 1,000 residents, slightly below the national average for cities of similar size. More notably, violent crime is rare—hovering between 2 and 3.1 incidents per 1,000 residents. That means your chance of being a victim of violent crime is roughly 1 in 605, making Scottsdale far safer than most metro areas across the country.
That said, crime does cluster in certain parts of town. Old Town, with its vibrant nightlife, tends to see higher activity—usually in the form of late-night disturbances or minor altercations near bars and event venues. From personal experience, I’ve walked clients through homes in that area midweek with no concern, but I always recommend sticking to well-lit paths at night and being mindful in those busier districts after hours.
Property crime—mainly theft or vehicle burglary—is more common, with a rate around 22 incidents per 1,000 residents. That equates to about a 1 in 45 chance of being affected, and these tend to happen in commercial parking lots or dense retail zones like Scottsdale Fashion Square. When showing homes near shopping centers, I always remind my clients to keep valuables out of sight when parked.
Safety by Neighborhood
Scottsdale’s neighborhoods vary quite a bit in layout, vibe, and of course, safety perception. If you’re looking for that lock-the-door-once-a-week kind of peace of mind, North Scottsdale is tough to beat. Areas like DC Ranch, Grayhawk, and Troon offer low crime rates, wide sidewalks, and a very community-centric atmosphere. Based on my experience selling homes in DC Ranch, many of my clients have shared that they feel safe walking alone, even in the evenings—especially near the community paths and gated areas.
Master-planned communities like McCormick Ranch and Gainey Ranch also stand out for both safety and walkability. These neighborhoods attract families, retirees, and snowbirds alike, thanks to consistent police presence, manicured trails, and well-lit streets.
On the flip side, South Scottsdale near the Tempe border—while vibrant and eclectic—can see a higher level of property crime and occasional disruptions from the nightlife crowd. I often suggest buyers do an evening drive or walk-through of any area they’re considering, just to get a feel for the environment after dark.
Pedestrian Experience and Infrastructure makes Scottsdale Safe for Walking
What sets Scottsdale apart is its investment in pedestrian-friendly design. The city offers:
- 160+ miles of paved trails and greenbelts
- 24 grade-separated crossings for safer pedestrian movement
- Sidewalks in nearly every major residential area
- Smart traffic signals and lighting in high-traffic zones
One of my favorite spots to recommend to out-of-towners is the Arizona Canal Trail—especially the stretch through Old Town. It’s not only scenic but also well-patrolled and bustling with walkers, joggers, and cyclists throughout the day.
That said, it’s important to keep in mind that Arizona as a whole ranks high in pedestrian and cyclist fatalities. Most of those incidents happen in high-speed traffic areas, not walkable neighborhoods—but it’s always smart to stick to crosswalks, wear visible clothing at night, and stay alert when walking near busy intersections.
Final Thoughts: Is Scottsdale Safe for Walking? Yes!
If you’re wondering whether it’s safe to walk around Scottsdale—the short answer is: yes, absolutely. Especially in communities like DC Ranch, McCormick Ranch, and Gainey Ranch, walkability and safety go hand-in-hand.
Still, as with any city, use common sense: avoid isolated areas after dark, stick to well-trafficked routes, and stay aware of your surroundings. Whether you’re relocating, visiting, or planning to buy, Scottsdale’s commitment to safety and infrastructure makes it an excellent place for pedestrians of all ages.
Sources:
Leave a Reply