Arcadia in Phoenix, Arizona: Where Luxury Meets Location

Tucked between Phoenix and Scottsdale, Arcadia is one of the Valley’s most coveted neighborhoods — a lush, upscale community with a vintage soul and modern appeal. Known for its tree-lined streets, citrus groves, and unbeatable location, Arcadia blends timeless charm with prime real estate value.

Whether you’ve heard of Arcadia Proper or the trendy adjacent Arcadia Lite, this guide will help you understand the true layout, boundaries, ZIP codes, and unique lifestyle that defines this area.

Where is Arcadia in Phoenix?

Arcadia is located in east Phoenix, just west of Scottsdale. It stretches from 44th Street to 68th Street (east-west) and from Camelback Road to the canal/South of Indian School Road (north-south). This gives it a unique footprint that dips into both Phoenix and parts of Scottsdale.

Residents love Arcadia because it’s close to everything:

• Just 15 minutes to Phoenix Sky Harbor Airport
  
  
• 10 minutes to Old Town Scottsdale
  
  
• Minutes from Biltmore Fashion Park, Camelback Mountain, and downtown Phoenix
  

Despite its central location, Arcadia is known for its large lots, green landscapes, and stunning views of Camelback Mountain — a rare find in metro Phoenix.

Arcadia ZIP Codes

Arcadia isn’t defined by a single ZIP code, which can be confusing for buyers unfamiliar with the area. Here are the primary ZIP codes that make up the Arcadia region:

• 85018 – This is the heart of Arcadia and includes both Arcadia Proper and parts of Arcadia Lite. It covers most of east Phoenix between 44th St and 68th St.
  
  
• 85251 – While often associated with Old Town Scottsdale, some eastern parts of Arcadia (near 68th St) fall within this Scottsdale ZIP, especially newer luxury builds and border areas.
  
  
• 85016 – Some northern edges of Arcadia Lite touch this ZIP code near the Biltmore area.
  
  

💠 Click here to view all homes for sale in Arcadia ZIP codes

Arcadia Proper vs. Arcadia Lite: What’s the Difference?

There’s often confusion about the terms Arcadia Proper and Arcadia Lite, so here’s a clear breakdown:

Arcadia Proper

This is the original Arcadia neighborhood, consisting of large, custom-built homes (many mid-century or ranch-style) on spacious irrigated lots, with tree-lined streets and mature citrus trees.

Key Features:

• Homes typically range from $1.5M to over $5M
  
  
• Oversized lots (up to half-acre+)
  
  
• Located between 44th St and 68th St, north of Indian School, south of Camelback
  
  
• Popular with established professionals, luxury buyers, and those seeking community feel
  
  
• Camelback Mountain views, walkable to La Grande Orange, Postino, and top-rated dining
  
  

In short, Arcadia Proper is timeless luxury — a highly competitive and stable market with major long-term value.

👉 Search homes in Arcadia Proper (85018)

Arcadia Lite

Arcadia Lite sits just west of Arcadia Proper, generally between 32nd Street to 44th Street, and from Indian School Rd southward to Thomas Rd.

What makes it "Lite"? It’s the cooler, younger cousin to Arcadia Proper — offering more affordable homes, a hip vibe, and proximity to Phoenix nightlife and eateries.

Key Features:

• Homes typically range from $600K to $1.2M
  
  
• A mix of remodeled ranches, new infill projects, and townhomes
  
  
• Walkable to high-end gastropubs, breweries, and coffee shops
  
  
• Known for creative energy and rising value
  
  
• Popular with first-time buyers, young families, and professionals
  
  

While not as stately or spacious as Arcadia Proper, Arcadia Lite delivers location and lifestyle at a more accessible price point.

👉 Search homes in Arcadia Lite

Why Buyers Love Arcadia

It’s not just the location that draws buyers into Arcadia—it’s the combination of natural beauty, urban convenience, and unique real estate character.

1. Camelback Mountain Views

Many homes in Arcadia have direct views of Camelback Mountain, a defining landmark of Phoenix. Whether you’re hiking Echo Canyon or just admiring the scenery, the mountain is central to life in Arcadia.

2. Lush Landscaping & Irrigation

Unlike most of Phoenix, Arcadia has irrigated lots, giving it a distinctly green, almost California-like feel. Lawns flourish, trees thrive, and outdoor living is a big part of the lifestyle.

3. Excellent Schools

Arcadia falls within the Scottsdale Unified School District, with standout schools like:

• Arcadia High School
  
  
• Tavan Elementary
  
  
• Ingleside Middle School
  
  

Private options nearby include Veritas Prep, Phoenix Country Day, and Villa Montessori.

4. Dining, Shopping & Walkability

Local favorites like La Grande Orange, The Henry, Chelsea’s Kitchen, and North Italia give Arcadia major culinary appeal. Combine that with upscale fitness studios, boutique stores, and walkable blocks, and you've got a lifestyle that's hard to match.

Real Estate Market in Arcadia

Arcadia’s market is one of the most stable and high-demand in the Valley. Despite broader market fluctuations, Arcadia homes maintain value due to:

• Limited inventory
  
  
• Strong school district
  
  
• Prestige and proximity to Phoenix and Scottsdale
  
  
• Architectural uniqueness
  
  

This is a neighborhood where real estate is more than just a home—it’s a long-term investment in location and quality of life.

Thinking About Moving to Arcadia?

Whether you’re eyeing a luxury estate in Arcadia Proper or a hip remodel in Arcadia Lite, you’ll be living in one of the most desirable locations in Arizona.

🏡 Click here to browse all Arcadia homes now

We’ve got the freshest listings and market insights to help you find the perfect match.

Arcadia is where urban meets oasis. With its unbeatable location, stunning natural surroundings, vibrant lifestyle scene, and rich mix of home styles, it’s easy to see why Arcadia remains one of Phoenix’s hottest real estate markets.

Whether you're looking for a million-dollar estate or a stylish modern home in a walkable neighborhood, Arcadia delivers sophistication, charm, and long-term value.