North Central Phoenix

Known for its rich equestrian history.

Welcome to North Central Phoenix

Lush, laid-back enclave mere minutes from downtown

North Central Phoenix is a verdant oasis nestled in the center of the metro, just 10 minutes North of Downtown, and is known for its rich equestrian history. Situated on both sides of Central Avenue, the Murphy Bridle Path dates back to the late 1800s and was once used for travel by horses. Today, it preserves North Central Phoenix’s rural charm with unpaved gravel paths and old-growth elm and olive trees. From Bethany Home Road to Northern Avenue, you’ll see many joggers, walkers, and baby strollers frequenting the trail.

Stewardship of North Central Phoenix extends back to valley developer William J. Murphy in the late 1800s. Murphy established this area, planted trees, and extended irrigation. Today, the old Murphy home is still visible west of Central Avenue on Orangewood. Murphy’s concept was to create a rural oasis in the middle of the city. The area was later championed by the Horse Lovers Club, which was responsible for the neighborhood landmark — a gateway with an iron horsehead and horseshoe located at Bethany Home Road and Central Avenue.

North Central Phoenix is sought after for its rich historic charm, highly acclaimed schools, and large homes with deep irrigated lots and lush yards. The homes here boast immaculate, many-acred yards set back from the road, so residents enjoy private yet open and spacious lawns shaded by large trees. In fact, several lots sit on cul-de-sacs tucked away from the hustle and bustle of heavy traffic — perfect for families with children.

What to Love

  • Highly walkable with mature shade trees
  • Large and private, yet open lawns
  • The laid-back vibe in a central location

Local Lifestyle

North Central Phoenix exudes small-town charm, despite its proximity to bustling Central Avenue, a vibrant and rapidly growing area. 

This community is ideal for families and professionals, as it’s just a short commute from downtown Phoenix. It’s also easily accessible to public transportation, such as commuter buses and the Valley Metro Light Rail.

Dining, Entertainment, and Shopping

There are plenty of upscale dining, shopping, and entertainment destinations just a short drive from North Central Phoenix, including Uptown Plaza. Built in 1955 and artfully restored more than six decades later, Uptown Plaza combines mid-century modern charm with an irresistible mix of the best local and national retailers and restaurants the whole family will enjoy.

Locals love Luci’s at the Orchard for its ranch-style ambiance and modern touches. Salads, sandwiches, all-day breakfast, and Splurge’s homemade gelato are just a few of the menu highlights served here. The marketplace at Luci’s showcases a collection of candles, artisan soaps, gourmet foods, toys, and other unique gifts. 

Head to Chantico for upscale Mexican cuisine made with local, healthy, and organic ingredients. Mora Italian is a modern take on the neighborhood eateries found throughout Italy and puts an innovative spin on time-honored classics such as rich polenta with porcini sugo.

St Francis off of Camelback Road offers global cuisine with a focus on farm-fresh, locally sourced ingredients. The menu at St. Francis includes house-made bread, gourmet desserts, crispy fried chicken, wood-fired pizzas, and more. Don’t miss Arizona Restaurant Week for a chance to indulge in new and innovative cuisine. 

Things to Do

Meander along the Murphy Bridle Path, situated under a canopy of mature elm and olive trees. It’s a shady respite for joggers, walkers, and cyclists alike.

Home cooks flock to Uptown Market, which is dedicated to inspiring and educating chefs throughout Arizona by offering local produce, handmade foods, and handcrafted goods. This market can be enjoyed year-round and takes place partially indoors during the months of June through September. 

Celebrate the holiday season at the APS Electric Light Parade, where locals gather to admire over 60 lighted holiday floats, as well as marching bands, and other performances.

Schools

North Central Phoenix is served by the award-winning Madison School District. The community also offers close access to several highly acclaimed private schools. Top educational opportunities include:

  • Madison Camelview Elementary, PK-4
  • Madison Meadows Middle School, 5-8
  • Madison Traditional Academy, K-8
  • Xavier College Preparatory, 9-12
  • Brophy College Preparatory, 6-12
  • Central High School, 9-12

Overview for North Central Phoenix, AZ

1,886 people live in North Central Phoenix, where the median age is 44 and the average individual income is $26,154. Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau.

1,886

Total Population

44 years

Median Age

High

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

$26,154

Average individual Income

Demographics and Employment Data for North Central Phoenix, AZ

North Central Phoenix has 691 households, with an average household size of 3. Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau. Here’s what the people living in North Central Phoenix do for work — and how long it takes them to get there. Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau. 1,886 people call North Central Phoenix home. The population density is 8,218.66 and the largest age group is Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau.

1,886

Total Population

High

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

44

Median Age

48.73 / 51.27%

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
691

Total Households

3

Average Household Size

$26,154

Average individual Income

Marital Status

Married
Single
Divorced
Separated

Commute Time

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

Around North Central Phoenix, AZ

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

82
Very Walkable
Walking Score
83
Very Bikeable
Bike Score
51
Good Transit
Transit Score

Points of Interest

Explore popular things to do in the area, including Neighbor Market, Progress Wine, and MercyFit.

Name Category Distance Reviews
Ratings by Yelp
Dining 2.43 miles 8 reviews 5/5 stars
Dining 0.59 miles 7 reviews 5/5 stars
Active 2.18 miles 6 reviews 5/5 stars
Active 4.05 miles 6 reviews 5/5 stars
Active 3.12 miles 6 reviews 5/5 stars
Active 3.42 miles 8 reviews 5/5 stars

Properties In This Neighborhood

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