Finding The Perfect Winter Retreat in Scottsdale: A Relocation Expert’s Guide
Is there anything better than an Arizona winter? (I might be biased, but I don’t think so.)
As temperatures drop across the country, the migration west begins. It’s a shift I watch happen every year: people arrive seeking warmth, comfort, and an escape from the gray, and they find a vibrant, sun-soaked community that feels like a breath of fresh air.
But navigating the Scottsdale market from afar can be tricky. Are you looking for a seasonal lock-and-leave escape, or are you ready to plant roots and call the desert home year-round?
As your Scottsdale Relocation Expert, my goal is to help you find not just a house, but a sanctuary that matches your lifestyle, whether that’s for three months or forever. Here is your guide to finding your fit this winter.
Why Scottsdale is a Winter Relocation Haven
Scottsdale’s winter appeal is simple: while much of the country is freezing and dealing with snow, the weather here is mild and comfortable.
In the Phoenix metro area, including Scottsdale, winter daytime temperatures are typically in the 60s and 70s, rarely dropping into the low 40s. You can golf, hike, dine outdoors, and enjoy outdoor events—without the heavy coats, icy roads, or snow shovel. The desert air can get chilly in the mornings and nights, though (but that’s what hot coffee is for!).
The proof that Scottsdale is a winter haven is obvious: the seasonal population increases every winter. In fact, locals like me can tell exactly when the season shifts. It’s not just the license plates changing; the city’s energy wakes up. The patios are buzzing, the golf courses are lively, and a vibrant sense of community grows every winter.
But what makes Scottsdale especially unique is that while you enjoy warm winters, snow is never far away.
Get the Best of Both Worlds Every Winter in Arizona
Living in or near Scottsdale means you can enjoy both sun and snow because of its proximity to climates that differ so much. In just 1 to 3 hours, you can drive to:
Flagstaff
Payson
Prescott
The White Mountains
These areas are where you can enjoy:
Pine forests
Cooler temperatures
Snowfall in the winter
Skiing, snowboarding, sledding, and all kinds of winter recreation
That means you can have sunshine, blue skies, and outdoor living all winter, but if you miss the snow and the “winter wonderland” vibes, you can easily plan a day trip or weekend getaway and have them, too!
For many people relocating from colder climates, this balance is ideal. You don’t have to choose between warmth and winter traditions; you can enjoy both on your own terms.
The Winter Social Calendar: Unrivaled Energy
Winter here isn’t just about the weather; it’s about the world-class events. From November through March, Scottsdale transforms into a global stage for sports, luxury, and culture. The city’s energy during these months is something you have to experience to truly understand.
Here is a snapshot of the lineup that defines our season:
Christmas at the Princess (November 21, 2025 – January 3, 2026)
This is how Scottsdale kicks off the season! It’s a spectacular holiday festival at the Fairmont Scottsdale Princess featuring millions of lights, an outdoor ice skating rink, and the Princess Express Train. It’s a local tradition that makes the desert feel like the North Pole (minus the freezing temperatures).
Barrett-Jackson Collector Car Auction (January 17–25, 2026)
We just wrapped up the 2026 auction, and the energy was incredible! Known as "The World's Greatest Collector Car Auctions," this event takes over WestWorld with rare and exotic cars that attract enthusiasts from across the globe. It is the place to see and be seen in January.
Waste Management Phoenix Open (February 2 – 8, 2026)
Get ready—the "Greatest Show on Grass" starts next week! Even if you aren't a huge golf fan, the energy at TPC Scottsdale is electric. It is the best-attended golf tournament in the world and undoubtedly the biggest party of the year.
Scottsdale Arabian Horse Show (February 12 – 22, 2026)
Shortly after the Open wraps up, WestWorld transforms again for the largest Arabian horse show in the world. It’s a prestigious event featuring the most beautiful horses on the planet—an absolute must-see for equestrian enthusiasts and families alike.
Cactus League Spring Training (February 20 – March 24, 2026)
This is a favorite for locals and visitors nationwide. There is nothing quite like a sunny afternoon at the ballpark watching your favorite MLB teams warm up for the season. With stadiums scattered across the Valley, it’s the perfect excuse to explore different neighborhoods while catching a game.
Snowbird vs. Full-Time Relocating to Arizona: Which is Right for You?
Snowbirds: Winter Living Without the Commitment
Most snowbirds live in Arizona from late fall to early spring, returning to their primary home before summer temperatures rise. Most snowbirds come year after year, and over time, many decide to relocate permanently.
Based on my experience, snowbirds prioritize:
Low-maintenance properties
Seasonal flexibility
Easy travel access
Communities with other seasonal residents
For snowbirds, lock-and-leave properties are especially popular. A lock-and-leave property is a type of home with ideal features for owners who are away for extended periods. Think of lock-and-leave as the ultimate freedom. These are secure, low-maintenance homes (such as condos, townhomes, or patio homes) where the HOA handles landscaping.
You can jet back home for the summer without a single worry about pool maintenance or overgrown weeds.
These features allow snowbirds to simply lock the door when they leave and return months later without worrying about upkeep, yard work, or security concerns. Lock-and-leave properties are the perfect choice for buyers who want peace of mind and simplicity during the months they’re back home.
You can commonly find lock-and-leave properties in:
Scottsdale
North Phoenix
Paradise Valley
Parts of the East Valley
Full-Time Relocators: Winter Escape Turned Into Home
Many snowbirds become full-time relocators. They keep returning until they realize they want to stay for good.
More than the weather, snowbirds relocate full-time to Scottsdale or Phoenix because of:
Active winter lifestyle
Strong sense of community
Year-round outdoor events
A strong job market
Major sports teams and cultural events
Easy access to airports
A wide range of home styles and price points
When they finally decide to stay year-round, most relocators look for homes that are less seasonal, often driven by what part of the Valley they have fallen in love with on past visits. These properties are scattered all over the metro area and beyond, and typically offer:
Year-round comfort and lifestyle upgrades
Access to healthcare, dining, and entertainment
A community that supports work, retirement, or family life
More space, outdoor living, or a slower pace
Choosing the Right Arizona City for Winter Relocation
The Phoenix metro area is large, diverse, and full of micro-lifestyles. So, a successful relocation, whether for the winter season or full-time, depends heavily on choosing the right city and neighborhood for you.
Start by asking yourself how you want to live, and match this with where you should buy. Don’t just pick what looks good online. It helps to get a local real estate agent (like a Scottsdale relocation expert like me!) to help you understand your goals and share insider information on the best neighborhoods.
If you’re like many of the buyers I’ve worked with, you might prefer:
Walkable areas close to dining and shopping
Quiet, gated communities
Golf course living
Desert views and privacy
Easy access to freeways or airports
Different Scottsdale and Phoenix areas provide varying features and amenities, so understanding your lifestyle goals is essential.
Finding Your Perfect Fit for Winter or All Year: Scottsdale Relocation
When deciding where to live in Scottsdale, whether for a seasonal escape or full relocation, understanding your priorities and having the right guidance can make all the difference. Every buyer’s situation is unique, and every neighborhood in Scottsdale and the Phoenix metro area offers something a little different.
To find your perfect fit in or around Scottsdale, let me be your guide. I help clients clarify their seasonal or full-time home needs, explore the right options, avoid common relocation pitfalls, and make confident, informed decisions from the start.
If Scottsdale is on your radar, for this winter or beyond, you can rely on me as a trusted resource. Together, we can explore your goals and options and create a plan that supports your ideal Scottsdale winter lifestyle.