North Central Phoenix: Big Lots, Old Trees, and the Murphy Bridle Path (2026 Guide)
Quick answer: North Central Phoenix is one of the city's oldest residential areas, known for large lots, flood irrigation, mature trees, and the Murphy Bridle Path along Central Avenue. It's central to downtown and the Camelback corridor, with homes ranging from original ranches to large custom builds.
Where is North Central Phoenix?
The historic North Central corridor runs roughly from Bethany Home Road north to Northern Avenue, between 7th Avenue and 7th Street, with Central Avenue down the middle. People often use "North Central" more loosely for the surrounding area too, so ask which streets a listing actually sits on.
How did it get this way?
In the 1890s, William J. Murphy laid out large estate lots here surrounded by citrus groves, fed by irrigation. After World War II, many of those big parcels were split into smaller residential lots. That's why you'll see an early-1900s home, a 1950s ranch, and a new custom build on the same block.
The irrigation is still here. Some properties still get flood irrigation through one of the oldest laterals in the city, which is how those lawns and trees stay green.
What is the Murphy Bridle Path?
It's a 2.5-mile path along Central Avenue, lined with olive and ash trees and mostly left unpaved. It started as a horse path around 1900 and got its name in 1948. Today it's where the neighborhood walks, runs, and bikes.
What kind of homes are in North Central?
Lots: many are larger than typical Phoenix lots, some well over a quarter acre. [add typical lot range from MLS]
Styles: early custom homes, midcentury ranches, and newer builds replacing older homes
Price range: [add median sale price with source and month]
What should you check before you buy?
Irrigation rights. Not every lot has them. Confirm with SRP for the specific parcel, and ask how the schedule works.
Zoning and lot splits. If you're thinking about an addition, a guest house, or splitting a lot, check the City of Phoenix zoning for that parcel first.
Age of the home. Older homes here often need sewer scopes, electrical panel checks, and a close look at roof and HVAC age.
Street traffic. Central Avenue and the major cross streets are busy. The side streets are much quieter.
Schools. District lines vary here, so check the district and school for each address directly.
How does it compare to Arcadia?
Both have irrigated lots and mature trees. North Central is closer to downtown and Central Avenue, and often comes in at a lower price point than Arcadia [add comparison with source]. Arcadia is closer to Camelback Mountain and Old Town Scottsdale.
Thinking about North Central? Reach out and I'll help you compare streets, lots, and prices.
Warmly, Molly
Molly Rodham and Jared Rodham are the husband-and-wife team behind Jared & Molly with The Avenue Collective in Scottsdale, working in Arcadia, South Scottsdale and central Phoenix for 11+ years. Thinking about a move here? Call or text 602-748-7289.