Most likely the biggest reason people move to Fountain Hills is the natural desert beauty -- breathtaking mountain ranges dominate the near and far landscapes, while the desert environment found in arroyos and neighborhoods is often spectacular as well.

With a population of about 20,000 people, residents take advantage of the "hometown" atmosphere while still enjoying the "big city" amenities of Scottsdale and Phoenix just 30-40 minutes away.

When Fountain Hills is fully developed, the projected population is estimated to be about 28,000 and so the small town feeling should remain.   Incorporated in 1989, Fountain hills is blessed with a quiet quality of life for people of all ages. 

Separated from the rest of the Metro area by the McDowell Mountains, the community is characterized by uncongested streets in the desert hills and arroyos, and air that is cleaner and clearer.

Fountain Hills takes its name from a giant fountain which was created and designed to be the centerpiece of the community. This fountain can send a snow white jet stream of water 560 ft. into the blue desert sky.  It is recognized by the Guinness Book Of Records as the "tallest fountain in the world".

The fountain is still higher than any fully operational fountain in the world at the present time. It towers above a 28 acre lake in the center of Fountain Hills' 32 acre Fountain Park.

During the day it reflects the shifting shades of sunlight and at night, golden spotlights located in the fountain's base illuminate the first 300 feet of the water column while the upper portion is bathed in a silver glow from powerful mercury vapor lights on the lakeshore.

It is operated daily for periods of either 15 or 30 minutes on the hour, depending on the time of year, and from about 9 a.m. to 10 p.m.  Weather and wind conditions can also control operations.

It is the centerpiece and landmark of Fountain Hills.  The performance of The Fountain exceeds its nearest rivals. At Canberra, Australia, the Captain Cook Memorial Jet attains an operating height of 450 feet, while in Lake Geneva, Switzerland, Le Jet D'Eau has a maximum height of 435 feet, New York City's Delacourte Fountain Rises 400 feet, and Pittsburg's new Point Fountain, 500 feet.

The area offers some of the best opportunities to experience the Sonoran Desert available in the Southwest.  Relax poolside at one of the fine resorts, hotels, or bed and breakfasts or play a round of golf on one of seven local golf courses. 

For the more adventurous type, enjoy hiking, horseback riding, Hummer tours, water sports on the Verde River or Saguaro Lake, or take a scenic desert drive, one of the finest in the valley.

Residents have a wide choice of recreation, both at home and in surrounding areas.  Fountain Park is a great place for picnics, games, walking and bicycling. 

Golden Eagle Park has new facilities for tennis, softball, baseball, soccer, basketball and other sports for the young and old.  The Community Center and Senior Center have clubs, crafts, bridge, aerobics, arts, cultural and civic events.

McDowell Mountain Park, adjacent to Fountain Hills, has 20,000 acres of pristine outdoor recreation, and Saguaro Lake with its boating and fishing is just 12 miles away.

Fountain Hills is located close to well known shopping, restaurants and the arts. It is just a short drive to the famous White Mountains or a day trip to the red rock beauty of Sedona, the natural wonders of the Grand Canyon or the southwestern atmosphere of Tucson.

Fountain Hills schools rank among Arizona’s highest in student achievement.  There are two elementary schools, a middle school and a high school, plus a private K-12 religious school.  There is also a new K-12 Charter school and a number of licensed pre-schools noted for their excellence.

The Community has two primary health care centers, one affiliated with Mayo Clinic and one with Scottsdale Memorial Hospital.  Both are fully staffed.  The Fountain Hills Medical Clinic offers walk-in service and there are dentists, orthodontists, optometrists, chiropractors, physical therapists, podiatrists and veterinarians who have local practices.

Fountain Hills also has three great Golf Courses open to the public.  Desert Canyon Golf Course that is  superbly scenic and acclaimed for its challenging play.  This 18 hole course is a par 71, 6097 yards.  The course appeals to both experts and beginners.

Sunridge Canyon is a 18-hole, par 71 course that winds through a lush desert canyon and is nationally rated as #42 of the top 100 U.S. Courses.

The Golf Club at Eagle Ridge Mountain sweeps around mountain ridges and has wonderful views over Scottsdale and Mesa.  It is a great 18-hole course, Par 71 with 6,755 yards.