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 59 days on the market compared to the national average of 56 days. The median sale price for homes in North Central, Phoenix over the last 12 months is $427,500, consistent with the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
BRAND-NEW Carpet!!! Corner-unit 2-story condo in a quiet, established community! 2Br/1.5Ba, 924sf, with all appliances included. Updates: interior paint (2026), newer fridge (1.5 yrs) & dishwasher (3 yrs). Private enclosed patio with dedicated laundry room. Near community pool, BBQ gazebo & mountain views. HOA maintains roof/exterior, water, sewer, garbage collection, front yard & common areas
Wonderful 2 bedroom, 2 bathroom home, with remodeled kitchen with built in microwave & a double oven, bathrooms, & newer roof. AC replaced in 2019. The solar system is completely paid off. This move-in ready property is excellent for a starter home, or investment opportunity. The back yard is large enough to build a guest home, with its own entrance through its RV Gate via the alleyway.
Unbeatable North Central location directly on the Murphy Bridle Path! This 3BR, 2BA, 1,644 SF townhome features a brand new roof and excellent peace of mind. Enter through a private gated garden courtyard into a striking two-story living room complete with vaulted wood-plank ceilings, a fireplace, and dual patios for seamless indoor-outdoor living. The smart layout includes a rare downstairs
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
This AMAZING townhome offers exceptional value within the sought-after 23 North community. The versatile floor plan provides unique living options that are difficult to find at this price point.On the main level, you'll discover a spacious bedroom currently configured as a private studio-style suite, complete with a wet bar and separate laundry hookup. Ideal as a guest retreat,
Beautifully remodeled home in the highly desirable Sunnyslope High School district, offering the perfect blend of comfort, style, and functionality. Inside, you'll find wood flooring throughout, plantation shutters, soaring ceilings, and an open-concept floor plan designed for everyday living and entertaining. The gourmet kitchen features granite countertops, abundant maple cabinetry, a gas
THIS ONE IS A DEAL! BUY IT TODAY. Remodeled home in North Central Phoenix w/1BD casita! ! Situated on a spacious, irrigated 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 retreat featuring a large, sparkling
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Motivated Seller! 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
BEAUTIFUL REMODELED HOME WITH A PRIVATE GUEST HOUSE AND NO HOA!! In the heart of Phoenix's iconic North Central Corridor within the prestigious Sunnyslope High School District. This home seamlessly blends modern style, comfort, and versatility.The open-concept floor plan is perfect for both everyday living and entertaining, featuring a beautifully updated kitchen with elegant countertops that
North Central home ready for a remodel! 3 bed/2bath on a large irrigated lot (14,079 sq ft).New HVAC installed 2025. 2,303 sq.ft home includes a permitted addition. Home is being sold ''As Is''
Beautifully renovated ranch-style home in a prime North Central Phoenix location! This move-in ready home features bright, open living spaces, a remodeled kitchen with white cabinetry, quartz countertops, stainless steel appliances, designer hardware, and a cozy brick fireplace. A flexible bonus room is perfect for a home office, library, or media space. Enjoy a spacious primary suite, updated
Remodeled 4 bedroom/2 bath custom home located on a large lot in the coveted Royal Palm Neighborhood. Located close to A+ rated Sunny Slope H.S. Split floor plan. This home is turn key and has been fully remodeled. The high pitched vaulted ceilings let in the natural light. All the flooring throughout has been updated. Newer paint inside and out. The kitchen has been nicely redone with updated
SECTION 8 & HOM Inc Accepted. Move-in ready 2 bed 1 bath end unit in a single level triplex. Fresly painted interior. Eat-in-Kitchen, spacious living room and nice sized bedrooms. Separate Storage Room. Enjoy the grassy area right outside your front door. See this soon.
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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
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