Located 8 miles north of Downtown Phoenix, North Central has desert hiking and lush green parks, all within biking distance of popular local restaurants. “It’s a very well-established part of Phoenix, with older homes and larger lots, which is very desirable to people who are looking for something central but still want room in the front and backyards,” says Julia Almgren, a Realtor with Homesmart who’s sold homes here for five years. “There’s a lot of families that have lived in the area for a very long time, so there’s a blend of recently remodeled homes and homes that have stayed in the family for a couple of generations.” The Valley Metro light rail makes it easy to get downtown, and the neighborhood is bordered by Interstate 17 and Route 51. The area's many houses of worship include North Phoenix Baptist Church, Kadampa Meditation Center Phoenix and Masjid Dunlap.
The Sunnyslope area of North Central is marked by a giant S and can be seen for miles around.
Hike up the Dreamy Draw Recreation Area for spectacular views of Phoenix.
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Ranch-style homes with a range of landscaping
A canal divides the neighborhood in half, separating it into two distinct landscapes. On the northeastern side, the brown peaks of the Phoenix Mountains Preserve rise over the neighborhood’s xeriscaped yards, which feature water-saving plantings like cacti and desert shrubs. To the southwest, mature trees shade flat, grassy lawns. “Areas of North Central are very green in comparison to the rest of Phoenix,” Almgren says. “There are trees you can’t even wrap your arms around. There’s also flood irrigation available in the neighborhood, so you’re able to maintain a nice grassy lawn.”
While neighborhood greenery might be expected to affect a home’s price, cost is actually determined more by a home's size, renovations and amenities like pools or horse privileges. Midcentury ranch-style homes are the most common; prices range from $250,000 to $580,000 for layouts between 700 and 1,700 square feet, while layouts between 1,700 and 3,500 square feet can cost from $600,000 to $1.2 million. Buyers can also find custom homes with Mediterranean and International styles in the foothills and near Royal Palm Park. Layouts from 1,800 to 4,800 square feet can cost between $700,000 and $2.2 million, depending on size and amenities.
Mediterranean-style townhouses are also available, with layouts between 850 and 2,600 square feet. Two-bedroom units range from $190,000 to $480,000, while three-bedroom units range from $280,000 to $750,000. Monthly homeowners association fees can range from $150 to $400, covering ground maintenance and roof repair. Low-rise condos are also available, with layouts from 600 to 1,400 square feet costing from $160,000 to $360,000, depending on size, plus monthly HOA fees between $180 and $420 that cover ground and street maintenance. Apartments are available to rent in low-rise complexes, and single-family homes can also be leased.
Homes in North Central contain adorable mid-century stylings.
Neighbors become friends in the heart of North Central's tight-knit community.
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Savory meals at Little Miss BBQ
Seventh Avenue is the neighborhood’s main commercial corridor, lined mostly with auto shops and local restaurants. The locally owned Little Miss BBQ is known for its Texas-style smoked meats and outdoor picnic area, and the family-owned Greektown has served traditional Mediterranean cuisine here since 1974. OHSO, a brewery and distillery, is within walking and biking distance for most residents, and more popular restaurants can be found to the south, including Doughbird, the latest restaurant by local restaurateur Sam Fox. “At Doughbird, their concept is pizza and rotisserie chicken, which you would not think to pair together,” Almgren says. “They use high end ingredients for their pizzas, and then they do slow-cooked rotisserie chicken that you can put on your salad or pizza.” The Uptown Farmers Market to the south has fresh produce each Saturday, and nearby grocery stores include El Rancho Market, Fry’s and Sprouts Farmers Market.
OHSO Sunnyslope is quickly becoming the new go to restaurant in North Central.
Savor the flavor of local farms every weekend at North Central's Uptown Farmers Market.
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Arizona Diamondbacks games at Chase Field
Residents can head to Downtown Phoenix on the light rail for popular sports events. From October through April, basketball fans can cheer on the National Basketball Association’s Phoenix Suns at Footprint Center, and Major League Baseball’s Arizona Diamondbacks play at Chase Field from March through September.
Frisbee golf at Sunnyslope High
Local kids can start school at Sunnyslope Elementary, which earns a C from Niche, and then attend the C-plus-rated Royal Palm Middle. At the A-rated Sunnyslope High, kids can join over 90 clubs and sports, including frisbee golf, Model United Nations and the Activism Club. Nearby private schools include the A-plus-rated Saints Simon and Jude Cathedral School for pre-kindergarten through Grade 8 and the A-plus-rated Brophy College Preparatory, an all-boys Catholic high school ranked by Niche as the No. 1 Catholic high school in Arizona.
Admire the Viking statue, a symbol of strength and pride at Sunnyslope High School in Phoenix.
Enter through the welcoming entrance of Royal Palm Middle School in Phoenix.
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Hiking the Phoenix Mountains Preserve
The 35,000-acre Phoenix Mountains Preserve has over 100 miles of hiking trails in parks throughout the city. Two mountainous areas of the preserve are to the north and east of the neighborhood, including North Mountain Park, where residents can learn about the surrounding Sonoran Desert at the visitor’s center. Royal Palm Park offers 29 acres of green space in the neighborhood’s southwest, as well as a popular shaded playground for kids. The 5-mile Murphy Bridle Path runs along Central Avenue; it was built for the area’s equestrians in 1948, but today its shaded dirt path is used for dog walks and evening strolls. On hot days, the indoor Sunnyslope Community Center is popular for its gym, game room and classes.
Dreamy Draw Recreation Area has hiking & biking trails winding through rocky desert terrain.
Children's laughter fills the air at Royal Palm Park in North Central, Phoenix.
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Near the Valley Metro light rail
The neighborhood is bordered west by Interstate 17 and east by state Route 51. Central Avenue passes through the neighborhood’s center and leads 8 miles south to Downtown Phoenix. The Valley Metro’s light rail stops along 19th Avenue, and the bus stops throughout the neighborhood; both provide car-free ways to get downtown. Dedicated bike lanes and sidewalks make the area friendly for cyclists and pedestrians. HonorHealth John C. Lincoln Medical Center is in the neighborhood’s center, and Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport is a 12-mile trip.
Multi-use canal paths are available to the residents of North Central.
Zip through North Central with the efficient and eco-friendly light rail system.
GreatSchools:
The GreatSchools Rating helps parents compare schools within a state based on a variety of school quality indicators and provides a helpful picture of how effectively each school serves all of its students. Ratings are on a scale of 1 (below average) to 10 (above average) and can include test scores, college readiness, academic progress, advanced courses, equity, discipline and attendance data. We also advise parents to visit schools, consider other information on school performance and programs, and consider family needs as part of the school selection process.
View GreatSchools Rating Methodology
Are you familiar with the North Central neighborhood?
to let others know what life in this neighborhood is like.
Crime and Safety
1 - Low Crime, 10 - High Crime
North Central
US
Homicide
5
4
Sexual Assault
6
4
Assault with Weapon
6
4
Robbery
5
4
Burglary
5
4
Motor Vehicle Theft
5
4
Larceny
5
4
Crime Score
5
4
Source: WhatIsMyCrimeRisk.com
North Central Demographics and Home Trends
On average, homes in North Central, Phoenix sell after 57 days on the market compared to the national average of 55 days. The median sale price for homes in North Central, Phoenix over the last 12 months is $416,500, down 3% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
This bright and airy 2-bedroom condo offers ample space and layout flexibility for a second bathroom and is bathed in natural light and offers the ultimate privacy of a corner location. Discover the perfect blend of city convenience and tranquil living in this stunning end-unit. Just steps from the historic Murphy Bridle Path. The meticulously maintained, ''super clean'' interior features
Fully Rebuilt & Backing the Preserve! Nestled on a hillside lot with direct access to the Phoenix Mountain Preserve, this all-new home combines modern finishes with a serene desert setting. Featuring driveway parking and low-maintenance landscaping, it's move-in ready. Inside, an open layout highlights abundant natural light, a neutral color scheme, recessed lighting, wood-look tile floors, and
RECENT $10,000 INVESTMENT in mature trees to enhance backyard privacy. Solar lease paid through 2034. North Central Phoenix retreat with mountain views and large lot. Nestled in a quiet cul-de-sac, this beautifully updated 4-bedroom, 3-bath home offers the perfect balance of comfort, character, and convenience. The updated kitchen features quartz countertops, stainless steel appliances, and ample
Classic mid-century modern design meets elevated desert living in this Sunnyslope gem, perfectly positioned to capture sweeping mountain views from both indoor and outdoor spaces. Set in North Central Phoenix, this home blends architectural character with a lifestyle that feels grounded, social, and distinctly Arizona. The living room features a large picture window that frames the surrounding
Miami Meets Phoenix!! With a Fashion Glare to Contemporary Lifestyle! Welcome to (Nick-Named) FontaineBleau-New Construction 2024 Just Completed! A Must See to Experience the Quintessential Essence of Sophistication. Features A True Entertainers Style w/ Ease. Starting From Your Fingertips w/a Whole House Programable (RTI) Smart System Including Multiple iPad/Remotes( Lutron, Sonos & more), Full
Opportunity is knocking! Beautifully Remodeled home in the highly sought-after Suburban Heights neighborhood of North Central Phoenix! Situated on a spacious lot w/mature shade trees & lush greenery, this 4BD 2BA Home offers nearly 3,000 square feet of comfortable living. Generous living areas provide great flexibility for everyday living & entertaining. Step outside to your private backyard
Beautifully remodeled 5-bedroom home with a guest house! Located in the highly desirable North Central Phoenix area, within the Sunnyslope High School District. Offering 2,632 sq ft of open and inviting living space, this home is perfect for both everyday living and entertaining. The updated kitchen features beautiful countertops, flowing seamlessly into the bright and spacious living
6,112 sqft vacant lot backing directly to the Phoenix Mountain Preserve in Ocotillo Hills! Enjoy unmatched privacy and panoramic mountain views while designing the custom home of your dreams. This prime location is close to dining, shopping, and parks. The seller is also offering the brand-new home next door as a separate listing.
Zoned C-2 multi-use, part of Hatcher Overlay District (see docs) on lrg lot in N. Central Phoenix, good street frontage. Currently set as 2 sep office suites, ea with reception area, 3 offices and 1 bath. SUITE A has kitchenette and appx 740sf, SUITE B apppx 830sf. Or c/b be used as one lrg 6-office suite with 2 bathrooms (no shower/tub). C/B prof office, medical clinic, beauty salon,
Home is updated, including HVAC-less than 2 years old, roof is newer as well, flooring, fresh paint, updated bath and kitchen, too!! The oversized lot would allow for a second unit to be built, already zoned multi-family, or be a great backyard for a family!
Two neighboring properties being sold together as one combined estate, perfect for Family Compound. Located at 1448 & 1450 E Royal Palm Rd, this unique package offers a total of 6 bedrooms, 4.5 bathrooms, and 4,010 sq ft of living space across both parcels, situated on a combined 13,725 sq ft lot. 1448 E Royal Palm features a 3 bedroom, 2 bathroom main home with 1,223 sq ft, an attached guest
Welcome to 1448 E Royal Palm Rd, a rare find in North Central Phoenix! This versatile property offers a 2-bedroom, 1-bath main house plus an attached guest quarters with its own private entrance, bedroom, and full bathroom - perfect for extended family, guests, or rental income. Enjoy the Arizona lifestyle with a hot tub, brand new A/C unit, low-maintenance pavers, and turf in both the front and
Completely reimagined by an award-winning designer using timeless finishes and distinctive architectural details, every inch of this home is stunning. Access your private retreat through the gated courtyard and beautifully crafted entry door. Inside, you will find a spacious interior rich with designer touches, cherry wood flooring, and custom upgrades throughout. The front room features built-in
Our modern home is conveniently located in the heart of Phoenix, Arizona. Our exceptional location and vibrant neighborhood of shops, restaurants, schools and entertainment makes this pet friendly community the perfect place to make home! Enjoy the open floor plan with well-appointed features including appliances, pantries, lots of cabinet space, breakfast bar, a private balcony or patio with
Our modern home is conveniently located in the heart of Phoenix, Arizona. Our exceptional location and vibrant neighborhood of shops, restaurants, schools and entertainment makes this pet friendly community the perfect place to call home! Enjoy the open floor plan with well-appointed features including appliances, pantries, lots of cabinet space, breakfast bar, a private balcony or patio with
Our modern home is conveniently located in the heart of Phoenix, Arizona. Our exceptional location and vibrant neighborhood of shops, restaurants, schools and entertainment makes this pet friendly community the perfect place to call home! Enjoy the open floor plan with well-appointed features including appliances, pantries, lots of cabinet space, breakfast bar, a private balcony or patio with
Located in a gated community with private hiking trails, this 5BD, 7BA luxury estate offers stunning mountain views from every room. Features include an elevator, rich wood floors, optimum living space, metal roll-down blackout shades, and a spacious upstairs loft. The chef's kitchen boasts high-end appliances, including a Sub-Zero fridge, and opens to an entertainer's wet bar. The owner's suite
Montelano offers quality and comfort in Phoenix, AZ. We offer eight different floor plans and exceptional amenities with recent upgrades. Work up a sweat at our fitness center, or cool down in our beautiful pool surrounded by palm trees. Spend time with family and friends in the recreation area think grills and bean bag toss next to our new playground and basketball court. For your convenience,
For RENT Spacious 5 bed, 3.5 bath North Central Corridor, offering 3,371 sq ft of flexible living, with 2 primary suites-one downstairs and one upstairs. Open and functional floor plan with large living areas for entertaining, working from home, or extended family needs. Located in one of Phoenix's most prestigious desirable family lifestyle neighborhoods, near top-rated schools including
Experience luxury like never before at 2121, where modern sophistication and upscale living come together. Enjoy thoughtfully crafted interiors, including condo-quality finishes, soaring 9-foot ceilings, and chef-inspired kitchens with quartz countertops and stainless-steel appliances. Unwind in our resort-style pool, stay active with cutting-edge Technogym equipment in the fitness center, or
Move-in-ready townhome featuring a renovated kitchen, designer backsplash, and new lighting. Includes newer appliances and ceramic flooring throughout. Perfectly situated near A-rated schools, shopping, and easy commuter access. A wonderful property, nestled between beautiful mountains on a quiet col de sac street. The landscaping around the property is very low maintenance and there are two
La Esplanada offers you easy access to Highway 51 which can take you quickly and efficiently to anywhere you work or play! Then come home to your oasis! The rugged, expansive desert mountain slopes of the adjacent North Phoenix Mountain Preserve contrast vividly with the abundant greenery of La Esplanada. The nearby preserve offers a peaceful place to hike, bike, or walk. The adjacent Highway 51
Thoughtfully designed with comfort and functionality in mind, this beautiful home offers true living at its finest. Tucked away in a quiet cul-de-sac with north/south exposure, it features charming curb appeal, a private lush backyard with a diving pool, a two-car garage, and an RV gate. Inside, the inviting layout is both bright and open, showcasing wood floors, plantation shutters, built-in
Surrounded by beautiful mountain preserves Sanctuary on 22nd (previously Rancho Viejo) offers something for everyone at a price you can afford. We offer spacious one and two bedroom apts, featuring oversized patios, ceiling fans, microwaves, linen closets, fireplaces in select units and a full-size washer and dryer in every home. Our beautiful gated community features two pools and a spa for
Step into cozy charm with this delightful furnished 1-bedroom home nestled within a charming duplex. This inviting abode boasts a thoughtfully curated interior, blending modern comfort with classic appeal. From the warm carpeted bedroom floors to the tasteful decor, every corner exudes a welcoming ambiance. The bedroom offers a tranquil retreat with plush bedding and ample storage, while the
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