Overall City Sentiment Score
What’s it really like to live in Scottsdale, and how do locals feel about the city’s overall vibe? In 2023, Scottsdale’s sentiment score sits at a respectable 74 out of 100, with residents expressing a strong sense of community pride and appreciation for the area’s vibrant local events and amenities. However, concerns over increasing traffic and housing affordability do shape the city’s overall sentiment.
Social Media Buzz in Scottsdale
A quick scan of social media platforms like Reddit, Facebook, and Twitter reveals that Scottsdale residents are actively engaged in discussing local happenings and issues. On the r/Scottsdale subreddit, users rave about the city’s “amazing food scene” and “beautiful hiking trails,” while also expressing frustration with “snowbird season traffic.” Over on the Scottsdale Moms Facebook group, members share glowing reviews of local schools and family-friendly events.
One longtime resident posted, “I’ve lived in Scottsdale for over 20 years, and I still love it. Sure, it’s gotten busier, but the sense of community is as strong as ever.” Another user chimed in, “Scottsdale isn’t perfect, but I wouldn’t want to raise my kids anywhere else.”
Local News Tone
Local news outlets in Scottsdale generally strike an optimistic and hopeful tone when covering the city. Headlines like “Scottsdale Ranks Among Top 10 Happiest Cities in America” and “New Downtown Development Brings Jobs, Affordable Housing” reflect a sense of pride and progress. However, the media also addresses challenges facing the community, such as “Scottsdale Schools Grapple with Budget Cuts” and “Drought Conditions Worsen, City Urges Water Conservation.”
Review-Based Public Perception
On review platforms like Google, Yelp, and Nextdoor, Scottsdale consistently earns high marks from residents and visitors alike. Downtown Scottsdale, in particular, is often described as “lively,” “trendy,” and “perfect for a night out.” Suburban neighborhoods receive praise for their “quiet streets” and “friendly neighbors,” though some reviewers note that “HOA rules can be a bit strict.”
One Yelp reviewer shared, “I recently moved to Scottsdale from the Midwest, and I couldn’t be happier. The weather is fantastic, the people are welcoming, and there’s always something to do.” A Nextdoor user in North Scottsdale wrote, “I love my neighborhood’s sense of community. We have block parties, book clubs, and even a pet-sitting exchange!”
Comparison to Nearby Cities
| City | Sentiment Score | Strengths | Challenges |
|---|---|---|---|
| Scottsdale | 74 | Strong community, vibrant events, safety | Traffic, affordability |
| Tempe | 68 | Young vibe, ASU culture, affordability | Noise, partying, transient population |
| Gilbert | 81 | Family-friendly, clean, safe | Limited nightlife, cookie-cutter feel |
What Locals Are Saying
“As a young professional, I love living in Scottsdale. The job opportunities are great, and there’s always something fun happening downtown on weekends.” – Jenna, 28
“I’ve been here for over a decade, and Scottsdale has really grown on me. It’s a great place to retire – plenty of sunshine, golf courses, and friendly folks.” – Bill, 67
“Working remotely from Scottsdale has been a dream. I can take my laptop to a cute cafe or enjoy the sunshine in my backyard. The only downside is that housing isn’t cheap.” – Alex, 35
“Raising kids in Scottsdale has been wonderful. The schools are top-notch, and there are so many family-friendly activities. I do wish there was a bit more diversity, though.” – Maria, 43
Conclusion: Is Scottsdale a Happy City?
Based on local sentiment, social media buzz, news coverage, and resident reviews, it’s clear that Scottsdale is a city that many are proud to call home. With its strong sense of community, vibrant events, and beautiful surroundings, Scottsdale offers a high quality of life that appeals to a wide range of people.
However, like any city, Scottsdale isn’t without its challenges. Traffic congestion and rising housing costs are concerns for many residents, and some feel that the city could benefit from more diversity and affordability.
Ultimately, whether Scottsdale is the right fit for you will depend on your individual priorities and lifestyle preferences. If you’re considering a move to Scottsdale, be sure to explore our other resources, such as our Monthly Budget Examples for Scottsdale Residents, How Much You Need to Live Comfortably in Scottsdale, and Housing Costs in Scottsdale by Type.