Born in Scottsdale, Arizona, but actually spent much of his childhood in Seattle. Moved back to Scottsdale when he was 10 years old.

Introduced to golf at an early age through time spent with his father, Scott, as they regularly practiced at the covered driving range and par-3 course at Riverbend Golf Complex in Kent, Washington (south of Seattle). After Matt returned to Arizona, developed his game at Dobson Ranch Golf Course, a municipal course in Mesa, and McDowell Mountain Golf Club in Scottsdale. Occasionally got to play the Champions Course at TPC Scottsdale, as they offered an affordable junior rate.

Began playing golf left-handed as he mirrored his father's right-handed swing -- a reflection of the hands-on, family-centered way he learned the game.

As Matt's tournament schedule expanded, his mother, Deanna, played a central role in his development, driving him to junior events throughout the region and supporting his competitive schedule. Those early years were very much a family effort, and Matt remains close with his two sisters, Amanda and Lauren. Matt often cites his family's steady support as the foundation for his journey to professional golf.

Attended the WM Phoenix Open for a number of years growing up in Scottsdale, Arizona, with some of his favorite viewing spots being No. 7 tee and No. 13 green. As a youngster, served as a standard bearer at the tournament, and remembered Ken Duke being incredibly friendly.

Loyalty has remained a consistent theme in his life. He has maintained many of his closest relationships over time, including with his high school sweetheart, Madi.

In 2025, partnered with the Junior Golf Association of Arizona, a junior golf circuit he played in his youth, to sponsor the long-running Mesa Junior Championship at Dobson Ranch Golf Course, a municipal course he grew up playing. The 2025 playing of the tournament -- renamed the Matt McCarty Mesa Junior Championship -- was contested June 25-26. McCarty says of sponsoring the event, "To come back now and support the next generation of Arizona golfers, it means the world to me."

His personal mantra, "Be where your feet are." reflects his focus on preparation, presence, and steady progress.

Avid sports fan who supports the Seattle Seahawks (NFL football) and enjoys watching the Phoenix Suns (NBA basketball).

Grandpa, Ray Prokopchak, played one season of football at Arizona State University in 1958. Although he is not credited as a letterwinner, Prokopchak was listed on the program's all-time roster as having worn No. 85 for the 1958 season -- which was College Football Hall of Fame inductee Frank Kush's first season as head coach of the Sun Devils.

Played five seasons at Santa Clara University (2016-21), earning All-West Coast Conference recognition in 2018, 2019, and 2021.