If you’ve lived in the Valley long enough, you know that some of our most beloved neighborhoods aren’t defined by city gates or official signs, but by the “vibe” of the streets. North Central Phoenix is exactly that—a lush, historic pocket that locals hold dear.
As a second-generation Arizona native, I’m often asked by clients relocating to the area: “Where exactly does North Central Phoenix start and end?” While the city maps might give you one answer, the real estate market and the community have their own “North Central” borders.
The Short Answer: What are the Boundaries of North Central Phoenix?
The boundaries of North Central Phoenix (often called the Central Corridor) are generally defined as 7th Avenue to the west, 7th Street to the east, Camelback Road to the south, and Northern Avenue to the north. This specific square is famously referred to by locals as “Between the 7s.” However, many residents and Realtors extend the northern boundary to Dunlap Avenue to include the scenic foothills and the historic Murphy Bridle Path.
The Core: “Between the 7s”
When people speak about the “classic” North Central lifestyle, they are almost always referring to the grid between 7th Ave and 7th St.
- Why it matters: This area is home to the most iconic ranch-style estates and large irrigated lots.
- The Atmosphere: Crossing into this zone feels like entering a different ecosystem. The desert landscape gives way to massive Aleppo Pines, olive trees, and deep green lawns—a legacy of the area’s agricultural history.
The Southern Border: Camelback Road & Uptown
The southern boundary at Camelback Road acts as the bridge between “Midtown/Uptown” and “North Central.”
- The Transition: South of Camelback, you’ll find more high-density urban living and commercial hubs.
- Local Favorite: This border is home to Uptown Plaza, where you’ll find me grabbing a coffee or meeting clients at Postino Central. It marks the beginning of the neighborhood’s walkable dining scene.
The Northern Border: Northern vs. Dunlap
This is where the debate happens!
- The “Purist” View: Many consider Northern Avenue the cutoff.
- The “Local” View: As a native, I consider the boundary to extend to Dunlap Avenue. Why? Because the Murphy Bridle Path—the historic 2.5-mile dirt trail where you’ll see neighbors jogging and walking their dogs under a canopy of trees—stretches all the way to the Arizona Canal near Dunlap. To exclude this stretch is to miss some of the most beautiful real estate in the Corridor.
The Western and Eastern “Buffers”
While the “7s” are the hard boundaries, the influence of North Central often bleeds over:
- To the West: The I-17 acts as a secondary western buffer.
- To the East: The SR-51 (Piestewa Freeway) provides the eastern edge, offering quick access to the Phoenix Mountains Preserve for hikers and outdoor enthusiasts.
Why the Boundaries Matter for Real Estate
Understanding these boundaries is crucial for buyers because the North Central Corridor is one of the most stable real estate micro-markets in Arizona.
- Irrigated Lots: Within these borders, you’ll find rare “flood irrigation” rights, allowing for the lush, mature trees that make the area 10 degrees cooler in the summer.
- School Districts: This area falls largely within the Madison School District, one of the most sought-after elementary districts in the city, which keeps property values consistently high.
Is North Central Phoenix the Right Fit for You?
Living “Between the 7s” offers a lifestyle you simply can’t find in the newer suburbs. It’s a place where mid-century ranch homes sit next to multimillion-dollar modern estates, all connected by a historic bridle path.
Want to see the “Hidden North Central?” There are pockets within these boundaries—like Orangewood or Royal Palms—that have their own unique personality. If you’re looking for a home that feels like a quiet retreat but is only 15 minutes from Downtown Phoenix or the Biltmore, let’s chat.
Contact Chrissie Cline to find your home in the Central Corridor.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does “Between the 7s” mean in Phoenix? It refers to the highly desirable North Central Phoenix neighborhood located between 7th Avenue and 7th Street.
Is North Central Phoenix a good place to live? Absolutely. It is known for its historic charm, top-rated Madison schools, and its central location that offers easy commutes to both Downtown Phoenix and Scottsdale.
Where is the Murphy Bridle Path? The Murphy Bridle Path runs along the east side of Central Avenue, starting at Bethany Home Road and ending at the Arizona Canal (near Dunlap Ave). It is a centerpiece of the North Central Phoenix community.