North Central

North Central Phoenix is a vibrant and historic part of Phoenix that appeals to those seeking a balance between the energy of urban living and the tranquility of mature green landscape with tree-lined streets. This area, rich with culture and convenience, offers a unique lifestyle, making it a top choice for both long-time residents and newcomers to the Valley.

 

North Central is geographically nestled between the downtown Phoenix core and the scenic Phoenix Mountain Preserve. Bordered by Camelback Road to the south and Dunlap Avenue to the north, this area offers easy access to all parts of the Valley via major roads like Central Avenue, 7th Street, and 16th Street. It’s also close to freeways such as the I-17 and the SR 51, providing a quick commute to other parts of the metro area.

 

When it comes to location,  North Central is a prime spot for those who want to be near downtown Phoenix for work or entertainment while still enjoying a quieter suburban atmosphere. The light rail, which cuts through parts of the neighborhood, adds to the convenience, offering a car-free way to reach downtown Phoenix and even Tempe or Mesa.

 

Popular Destinations in North Central:

North Central Phoenix has a vibrant mix of destinations that appeal to a wide range of interests. Here are some of the most popular spots:

  • Uptown Plaza: This mid-century shopping center has been revived into a modern retail and dining destination. It’s home to trendy eateries like Postino WineCafe and Flower Child, making it a hotspot for foodies.

  • Phoenix Farmer's Market: Located just south of North Central, the farmer's market is a beloved weekend destination for fresh local produce, artisan foods, and crafts.

  • Murphy’s Bridle Path: A favorite spot for locals, this path along Central Avenue is perfect for walking, jogging, or biking under the shade of majestic olive trees.

  • North Mountain Park: For those who love the outdoors, North Mountain Park offers hiking trails that provide breathtaking views of the city. It’s a great way to escape the bustle without venturing too far.

  • The Windsor and Churn (85013): This spot is iconic for casual dining and craft cocktails, and Churn, the ice cream parlor next door, is a local favorite for sweet treats.

  • Piestewa Peak (85020): A short drive from North Central Phoenix, this popular hiking destination is part of the Phoenix Mountains Preserve, offering a variety of trails and some of the best views of the Valley.

 

Proximity to Points of Interest:

(Drive time approximate)

Phoenix Sky Harbor Airport - 15 min

Chase Field / Downtown Phoenix - 10 mins

Old Town Scottsdale - 20 mins

Camelback Mountain - 15 mins

State Farm Stadium - 25 mins

Paradise Valley - 15 mins

 

Main Pros of Living in North Central:

  1. Classic Neighborhood Feel with Urban Conveniences: North Central Phoenix offers the best of both worlds—a peaceful, established neighborhood vibe mixed with the conveniences of urban living. Whether you're looking for walkable streets, parks, or access to trendy restaurants and boutique shopping, this area offers it all.

  2. Top-Rated Schools and Family-Friendly Atmosphere: Families often choose North Central Phoenix for its highly rated schools, such as Madison Traditional Academy and Sunnyslope High School. The area also boasts a family-friendly atmosphere with parks, activities, and a welcoming community spirit.

  3. Access to Public Transit and Commuting Options: With the Valley Metro light rail cutting through the area and major freeways nearby, North Central Phoenix provides multiple commuting options. Whether heading to downtown Phoenix for work or catching a game at Chase Field, residents enjoy seamless connectivity to the rest of the city.

  4. Architectural Charm: This part of Phoenix is known for its historic homes, ranging from mid-century modern gems to sprawling ranch-style homes. Many homes have been beautifully preserved, offering residents a sense of history and character not often found in newer parts of the city.

  5. Lush Greenery and Outdoor Spaces: Unlike some of the newer desert developments in Phoenix, North Central is known for its tree-lined streets, mature landscaping, and beautiful parks. Murphy’s Bridle Path is a prime example of the area’s greenery, making outdoor exercise a pleasure.

  6. Proximity to Healthcare and Amenities: North Central Phoenix is close to some of the best healthcare facilities in the region, including the HonorHealth John C. Lincoln Medical Center and the Arizona Heart Hospital. Residents can feel confident knowing they have access to quality medical care close to home.

  7. Community-Oriented Events: The neighborhood frequently hosts farmers markets, street festivals, and community events that bring residents together. These events foster a strong sense of community, making it easy for newcomers to feel at home quickly.

 

Is North Central right for you?

 

North Central Phoenix strikes the perfect balance for those seeking a neighborhood with historical charm, lush greenery, and modern conveniences. From beautiful parks to a variety of dining and entertainment options, the area appeals to families, young professionals, and retirees alike. Its location near downtown, combined with a strong sense of community, makes North Central Phoenix an excellent choice for those relocating to the Valley. Whether you're drawn by the lifestyle or the charm of its architecture, living in North Central Phoenix offers a truly unique and fulfilling experience.

 

Thinking of making the move? Let Living in Phoenix Arizona help you find the perfect property in the Biltmore and make your relocation to Phoenix seamless. Reach out today to start your journey!

 

 

See Below for Access to Current Homes for Sale, School Info and additional stats:

 

Overview for North Central, AZ

8,135 people live in North Central, where the median age is 46 and the average individual income is $79,528. Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau.

8,135

Total Population

46 years

Median Age

High

Population Density Population Density This is the number of people per square mile in a neighborhood.

$79,528

Average individual Income

Around North Central, AZ

There's plenty to do around North Central, including shopping, dining, nightlife, parks, and more. Data provided by Walk Score and Yelp.

25
Car-Dependent
Walking Score
59
Bikeable
Bike Score
46
Some Transit
Transit Score

Points of Interest

Explore popular things to do in the area, including Cookie Mill, National Dodgeball Organization, and Burn It Build It Fitness Center.

Name Category Distance Reviews
Ratings by Yelp
Dining 1.68 miles 5 reviews 5/5 stars
Active 2.94 miles 8 reviews 5/5 stars
Active 0.66 miles 8 reviews 5/5 stars
Active 3.83 miles 11 reviews 5/5 stars
Active 3.37 miles 9 reviews 5/5 stars
Active 2.56 miles 8 reviews 5/5 stars
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Demographics and Employment Data for North Central, AZ

North Central has 3,375 households, with an average household size of 2. Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau. Here’s what the people living in North Central do for work — and how long it takes them to get there. Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau. 8,135 people call North Central home. The population density is 4,113.96 and the largest age group is Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau.

8,135

Total Population

High

Population Density Population Density This is the number of people per square mile in a neighborhood.

46

Median Age

52.83 / 47.17%

Men vs Women

Population by Age Group

0-9:

0-9 Years

10-17:

10-17 Years

18-24:

18-24 Years

25-64:

25-64 Years

65-74:

65-74 Years

75+:

75+ Years

Education Level

  • Less Than 9th Grade
  • High School Degree
  • Associate Degree
  • Bachelor Degree
  • Graduate Degree
3,375

Total Households

2

Average Household Size

$79,528

Average individual Income

Households with Children

With Children:

Without Children:

Marital Status

Married
Single
Divorced
Separated

Blue vs White Collar Workers

Blue Collar:

White Collar:

Commute Time

0 to 14 Minutes
15 to 29 Minutes
30 to 59 Minutes
60+ Minutes

Schools in North Central, AZ

All ()
Primary Schools ()
Middle Schools ()
High Schools ()
Mixed Schools ()
The following schools are within or nearby North Central. The rating and statistics can serve as a starting point to make baseline comparisons on the right schools for your family. Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau.
Type
Name
Category
Grades
School rating

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