top of page
Search

Relocating to AZ for the space, views, and free reign? Check out Desert Hills!

  • Writer: Jessica Doberneck
    Jessica Doberneck
  • Aug 25
  • 3 min read

Updated: Sep 4

If you’re new here, welcome! I’m Jessica – Arizona Realtor with an Interior Design background and a love for sharing all things housing. In my most recent posts, I’ve been featuring some of my favorite AZ cities as a helpful guide for anyone looking to relocate to our sunny state. 


Today’s highlight: Desert Hills

Desert Hills is my next door neighbor, and I am a big fan! Desert Hills is known for its stunning desert landscape, mountain views, and privacy—offering a peaceful retreat amid the Sonoran Desert environment. For those of you thinking about making a change or just beginning your home search, I’m excited to share some of the perceived pros and cons of life in Desert Hills. Let's start with the positives, because there are so many!


A scenic view of Desert Hills AZ

Pros of Living in Desert Hills, AZ

  1. Acrage + Luxury: Your average home in Desert Hill sits on a little over an acre and home sizes easily range on average from 2,000 - 4,000 sqft. This is where you can have your cake and eat it too with a luxury home, luxury views, and luxury property. To add a cheery on top; you're likely to find a home with an RV garage, casita, or a zoned horse property.

  2. Peaceful, Rural Vibe: Desert Hills is a wonderful escape from the hustle and bustle. The wide-open spaces, star-filled nights, and quiet atmosphere are a major draw. It's the kind of place where you can truly relax and feel a sense of serenity.

  3. No HOA Fees: A significant number of properties in Desert Hills are not part of an HOA, which means you have more freedom with your property. No pesky rules about paint colors or where you can park your RV – it's a very appealing feature for many homebuyers.

  4. Access to Outdoor Recreation

    Bordered by natural preserves like Cave Creek Regional Park, Phoenix Sonoran Preserve, and the undeveloped Daisy Mountain area, residents enjoy hiking, horseback riding, biking, bird watching, and other outdoor activities.

  5. Community-Oriented: The community has a friendly, neighborly feel. Great for young families, retirees, and everything in-between! In fact, according to Nextdoor, Desert Hills was voted #1 friendliest neighborhood to live in the greater Phoenix area, scoring 100 for friendliness and 94 for affordability.


Now, it's just as important to be realistic. Every community has its challenges, and Desert Hills is no exception. Here are a few things to consider before planting roots in Desert Hills:


Cons of Living in Desert Hills, AZ

  1. Limited Local Amenities: While the peace and quiet of a rural area is a pro, the trade-off is the proximity to amenities. Most residents make the short drive to Anthem, Cave Creek, or Phoenix (10-20 minute drive) for major errands, shopping, and dining. This tradeoff appeals to those seeking privacy and space but can feel inconvenient for anyone who values quick, walkable access to amenities.

  2. Water: Don’t worry—Desert Hills does have water! However, because it’s unincorporated, most residents rely on hauled water delivered from Phoenix by Epcor rather than a piped municipal system. Some properties are fortunate enough to have private wells, which can offer more convenience and independence.

  3. Monsoon Season and Dust Storms: While beautiful, our desert environment comes with a few natural challenges. During monsoon season, you may experience heavy rain, and occasional haboobs (dust storms) can be a concern, especially for those with allergies or respiratory issues.

  4. Lack of Public Transportation: Desert Hills is very car-dependent. There is no public transportation system, so having a personal vehicle (or two!) is a necessity for getting around.


Relocating to a new area is a big decision, and my goal is always to give you the clearest picture possible without any personal biases swaying your decision. Desert Hills is a community that offers a unique blend of outdoor recreation, beautiful views + beautiful homes, and a peaceful lifestyle. It’s perfect for those who want a bit of space and freedom, and who prefer a short drive to get to the more commercial areas. 


If you'd like to explore this area more or have any questions about specific pros and cons of a particular neighborhood, please don't hesitate to reach out. I'm always happy to help you find the perfect home in the perfect place! 

 
 
 
bottom of page