COMMUNITY PROFILES / CITY OF PHOENIX

Phoenix City Hall
602-262-6011

Lifestyle
From sports to the fine arts, newcomers of all ages and interests will discover many rich treasures in Phoenix. The city’s cultural jewels have become more polished and abundant with the increase in population, supporting permanent companies for ballet, opera, theatre, and symphony. Dazzling venues showcase the latest Broadway hits as well as stellar national and international talent. Venues range from the magnificently restored historic Orpheum Theatre to the popular open-air Cricket Pavilion or the reconfigurable Dodge Theatre. Fine galleries join the Phoenix Art Museum in providing a visual feast of sculpture, photography, and painting. The internationally famous Heard Museum highlights primitive and modern Native American artistry.

East Phoenix
The natural Phoenix landmarks of Piestewa Peak and Camelback Mountain create the scenic backdrop for this established area of the city, where mature landscaping graces homes that were primarily constructed from the 1950s through the 1970s. The enduring sophistication of the Camelback Road corridor adds a number of attractions to this area, including the Arizona Biltmore Resort & Spa, Biltmore Fashion Park, office towers, wonderful restaurants, and the Esplanade. Another acclaimed resort, The Phoenician, is located just minutes away in neighboring Scottsdale. In addition to upscale enclaves like the Biltmore area and Arcadia, East Phoenix is home to many comfortable neighborhoods where well-maintained homes offer a wide variety of architectural styles, periods, and price ranges. Those East Phoenix developments closest to Papago Park, the Phoenix Zoo, and the Arizona Desert Botanical Gardens also provide quick and easy access to the cities of Tempe and Scottsdale, Arizona State University, and Sky Harbor International Airport.

Central Phoenix
Dynamic, bustling downtown cultural and professional sports centers coexist beside well-established core neighborhoods in Central Phoenix. Neighborhoods like the Biltmore area, Arcadia, and the Encanto-Palmcroft area are known for their stately homes set into deep lots covered by mature greenery. Architectural styles tend to be diverse, harmonizing sprawling ranches with an occasional Tudor or a handsome brick colonial graced by dramatic pillars. Simple tract homes nestled in tranquil, welcoming neighborhoods offer more affordable housing throughout this convenient area. Some of the most celebrated attractions in the Valley are nestled in Central Phoenix, from Papago Park with the Phoenix Zoo and Desert Botanical Gardens to world-class venues, museums, and stadiums. Interstates 10 and 17 and State Route 51 facilitate quick commutes to all corners of the Valley of the Sun.

North Phoenix
Growing exponentially, northern Phoenix sprawls from the Saguaro-studded open space that surrounds new master-planned communities in the North Gateway area to established neighborhoods that offer quick access to the downtown district. The area is rapidly changing its former image as a bedroom community, welcoming an influx of new business development and commercial activity. The addition of the sprawling new Arrowhead Towne Center Mall has created a mecca of retail, dining, and entertainment opportunities close to home. It is no surprise that the area’s continually expanding employment base is driving an equally impressive housing boom. Many families are drawn to North Phoenix by the real estate values, taking advantage of beautiful new residential developments that offer “more home for the dollar.” Even those who commute to jobs in other Valley of the Sun locations have the advantage of high-speed travel on Loop 101, Interstate 17, and State Route 51.

South Phoenix
Characterized as an area of contrasts and diversity, South Phoenix encompasses the world’s largest municipal park, unique attractions, historic neighborhoods, the rural South Mountain Village, and upscale master-planned communities in Ahwatukee Foothills Village. Interstate 10 provides a major thoroughfare with quick connections to other Valley freeways including Loop 202 and State Route 51 (the Piestewa Peak Parkway). Residents also enjoy a convenient location in relationship to the world-class attractions in downtown Phoenix—from cultural venues to professional sports areas. Ahwatukee Foothills Village is especially convenient to East Valley employment centers. Superb city and mountain views are complemented by first-rate recreational amenities like Pointe South Mountain and the five-star Raven at South Mountain Golf Club. As a result, this area is popular with developers of high-end residential enclaves.

West Phoenix
Surrounded by the communities of Glendale, Peoria, and Tolleson, the vast area known as West Phoenix continues to sprawl outward. Mature inner neighborhoods developed primarily from the 1950s through the ‘70s now provide affordable older homes with landscaped lawns and wide residential streets. Many long-established residential developments in West Phoenix were built in response to the housing demands for employees in the burgeoning aerospace, semiconductor, and petroleum industries. Offering diversity in its population and environments, West Phoenix is rapidly transforming its vast open space and fields into lovely new homes, shopping plazas, and restaurants. Housing affordability, easy access to downtown, and improvements in high-speed connections for commuters are driving interest in this area. Desert Sky Mall, Peoria Sports Complex, Arrowhead Towne Center Mall, Cricket Pavilion, and the antique capital of Glendale are among the popular attractions.

Phoenix Urban Villages

Ahwatukee Foothills
The natural beauty of South Mountain, the nation’s largest municipal park, separates Ahwatukee from Phoenix, aligning it geographically with the East Valley cities. Many mistakenly think of Ahwatukee as a separate city, particularly since the village has developed such a distinctive identity and claims a rapidly growing population nearing 90,000. Bounded by Interstate 10 to the east, South Mountain to the north, and the Gila Indian Reservation to the south and west, the village offers an enviable lifestyle and superb amenities in a convenient location. Everything from symphony performances to professional sports events are available in downtown Phoenix venues. Sky Harbor International Airport, the Arizona Mills retail complex, Arizona State University, and East Valley employment centers are “right next door.” The village showcases attractive residential opportunities for every taste and lifestyle, from custom estates to family homes in beautiful subdivisions. Fine residential developments in this area include The Foothills, Club West, Lakewood, Pointe South Mountain, Mountain Park Ranch, Mountain Ranch Estates, and Pecos West. Parks, golf courses, community centers, landscaped open space, and multi-purpose paths combine with respected schools, abundant youth sports, and activities for every age and interest. Drawn by natural beauty, newcomers are captured by the area’s convenience, quality of life, and the warm spirit of community.

Alhambra
The centrally located urban village of Alhambra offers a convenient residential environment where residents can easily access downtown employment centers as well as the Valley’s finest entertainment and cultural resources. This area is dominated by mature, stable, single-family homes in well-established neighborhoods. Architectural styles vary widely, crowned by estates and luxurious executive homes near Central Avenue in the northern section of the village. Some neighborhoods like Rancho Solano showcase exquisite ranch-style homes on sweeping lots that are shaded by towering trees and mature greenery. The village is primarily bounded by Northern Avenue, 7th Street, Grand Canal, the Black Canyon Freeway or Interstate 17, Grand Avenue, and 43rd Avenue.

Camelback East
The diverse village of Camelback East encompasses the bustling Camelback Road and 24th Street corridor. Upscale shopping, business, and entertainment centers like the Arizona Biltmore Resort & Spa, the Biltmore Fashion Park, the Ritz-Carlton Phoenix Hotel, and the Esplanade have played a major role in preserving this long established area as one of the most desirable locations in the Valley of the Sun. Many neighborhoods in this urban village were built between 1950 and 1970, providing a wealth of well-kept older homes in a wide range of settings and prices.

Some of the most prominent landmarks in the Valley are located in Camelback East, including the Wrigley Mansion, Piestewa Peak Mountain Park, the sprawling Papago Park with its popular 18-hole golf course and baseball facility, the Phoenix Zoo, and the Desert Botanical Gardens. The presence of internationally famous five-star resorts like the Arizona Biltmore has driven the development of magnificent residential enclaves in planned community settings with luxurious recreational amenities. The village borders the Town of Paradise Valley, the City of Scottsdale, 7th Street, Northern Avenue, the North Mountains, and Piestewa Peak Park.

Central City
Serving as the financial and government center for much of the city’s history, the Phoenix downtown district has reinvented itself over the past two decades. Today, the area features dazzling cultural venues, sports arenas, celebrated restaurants, coffeehouses, nightspots, eateries and boutiques. Enthusiastic crowds of residents and visitors mingle throughout the downtown area as they visit world-class museums or attend sports and concert events. Burton Barr Central Library, Patriot’s Square Park, Arizona Science Center, the Phoenix Museum of History, the Heard Museum, historic Heritage Square, the State Capitol complex, Symphony Hall, US Airways Arena, Chase Field, and Dodge Theatre all contribute to downtown’s status as a destination address. The addition of light rail, a beautiful downtown campus for Arizona State University, and stunning new lofts and apartments are all contributing to this area as a prestigious address.

Some of the oldest neighborhoods in the city surround downtown. Those designated as historic districts serve as a showcase of yesterday’s fine architecture, set against a backdrop of mature greenery. Widespread renovation of the vintage homes in the historic district has created enchanting neighborhoods like the Willo District near the central corridor. Built in the ’20s and ’30s, these homes feature unique styling, charming details, and one-of-a-kind architectural appeal. Boundaries of Central City include McDowell Road to Rio Salado, the Black Canyon Freeway (Interstate 17) to Grand Canal, and the Hohokam Expressway.

Deer Valley
The northern urban village of Deer Valley was named to honor the Native American petroglyphs of deer that were once hunted in this area. Today, a surge of new-home construction joins forces with business and retail development to create a dynamic and progressive environment. Boasting one of the state’s largest and most progressive school districts, Deer Valley is also home to one of the prestigious Phoenix “Points of Pride.” Deer Valley Rock Art Center protects a 47-acre nature preserve that showcases more than 1,500 petroglyphs.

The housing selection in the Deer Valley area ranges from well-kept older homes to beautiful modern construction that takes full advantage of panoramic desert settings and mountain vistas. The city of Phoenix operates the Deer Valley Airport, which provides a satellite to Sky Harbor International Airport. Many thriving businesses including high-tech companies are located in this area, as well as Turf Paradise racetrack. The Deer Valley Urban Village stretches from 16th Street east to the Phoenix city limits on the west. Greenway Road borders on the south, and the Central Arizona Project canal creates the northern border.

Desert View
Like many of the residential developments that are springing up throughout Northeast Scottsdale, Desert View Village in northern Phoenix reflects a strong commitment to environmental sensitivity. This expansive area features lush Sonoran desert landscape punctuated by the major geological features of Cave Creek Wash, Union Hills, and scenic mountains. The village is already home to more than 25,000 residents who have been attracted by the value of lovely new homes in a pristine setting. Newcomers will discover an extensive system of trails through the washes and along the roadways, creating a recreational network and enhancing the intimacy of a small-town atmosphere. Also convenient to this neighborhood, Reach 11 and Cave Buttes provide vast recreational areas. Approximate boundaries are Carefree Highway to the north, the Central Arizona Project canal to the south, the east Phoenix city limits near Scottsdale Road, and Union Hills to the west.

Encanto
Part of the Central Avenue corridor within downtown Phoenix actually falls into the Encanto Village, which adds a number of high-rise residential and office buildings to the cityscape. An ArtWalk now connects the Heard Museum, Phoenix Arts Museum, Phoenix Theater, Central Library, and the Cancer Survivors Park. The tree-canopied enclave known as the Encanto-Palmcroft Historic District features grand, vintage homes that wrap around the lush, 200-acre Encanto Park. Providing recreational areas and facilities, the landmark park serves as a community center for the annual ice-cream social and other events.

Wide curved streets, picturesque yards, abundant greenery, and a proud legacy of community spirit are the hallmarks of this picturesque area. Most of the Encanto-Palmcroft neighborhood was constructed in the 1920s and ‘30s as part of the “City Beautiful” or “Garden City” movement. Elegant manors shaded by ancient trees and graced by brilliant garden blooms create a serene atmosphere in the heart of the city. Just minutes away from the Arizona State Capitol complex and downtown attractions, the area has attracted many professionals who appreciate its unparalleled charm and daily convenience. Although the status of this beautiful neighborhood has remained undimmed over the decades, the surging popularity of historic Phoenix properties has intensified the interest in this area as a residential choice. Encanto Village extends from the Grand Canal to the Black Canyon Highway to McDowell Road.

Estrella
Integrating well-established neighborhoods with vast parcels of undeveloped land and exciting new residential developments, the Estrella Village area continues to experience a sweeping transformation. Older sections of the village offer modest homes constructed in the 1950s and ‘60s between 19th and 43rd Avenues. However, this sprawling village is seeing phenomenal residential expansion in areas that were once farm fields or dairies. Beautiful new subdivisions that provide first-rate recreational amenities are springing up, attracting families and retirees to a pristine desert setting that is graced by mountain vistas. Although some of this high-growth area lies outside the Phoenix city limits, the Maricopa County “islands” are still within the planning jurisdiction of the City of Phoenix. The village covers approximately 41 square miles bounded by Interstate 10 on the north, the Black Canyon Freeway and 19th Avenue on the east, Salt River on the south, and 107th Avenue on the west.

Laveen
Situated in the southwest Valley, Laveen is bounded by the Salt River to the north, 27th Avenue on the east, the Gila River community on the west, and scenic South Mountain Park on the south. The village represents a unique area within the city limits because of its rural beauty and proud agricultural heritage as well as untapped potential. Strategically located between the Salt River and imposing South Mountain, this area has long been valued by farmers and equestrians or those who appreciate seclusion and easy mountain access. While Laveen Village has remained relatively unchanged for many decades, the focus on close-in property for expansion near central Phoenix will inevitably transform the face of the village. Laveen offers more than 25 square miles of prime undeveloped and agricultural property within a few minutes drive from the major artery of Interstate 10 and downtown Phoenix.

Maryvale
Many of the planned neighborhoods in Maryvale Village were constructed during the decades that followed the post-war housing boom. While the village preserves a wide variety of housing from this period, it has also welcomed recent growth of single-family homes in new subdivisions. One of the Valley attractions to this area is Maryvale Baseball Park, serving as a major league baseball spring training stadium. Residents of the village enjoy many well- developed commercial areas that are filled with shops and services as well as the regional attraction of Desert Sky Mall. Cricket Pavilion is also located in this area, providing the Valley’s only entertainment venue dedicated to musical concerts. The outdoor amphitheater draws Valley and regional crowds to stellar performances. Maryvale Village boundaries extend from Grand Avenue and I-17 or the Black Canyon Freeway to 83rd Avenue, to McDowell Road, to Indian School Road to El Mirage Road, to Bethany Home Road, to 99th Avenue, and to Camelback Road.

North Gateway
Well-known for wonderful new residential developments such as Dynamite Ranch and Taramanto, North Gateway Village was no more than vast acreage of open desert just a few years ago. Approximate boundaries of this emerging, high-growth region are 67th Avenue on the west, Union Hills on the east, the Central Arizona Project canal on the south, and the Phoenix city limits on the north. Expansion of business and commerce in the far northern corners of the Valley of the Sun have only added to the convenience of North Gateway living. The transportation efficiencies and commuting ease that was created by the construction of Loop 101 have also enhanced the desirability of residential property in this area. Developers are offering a wide range of new construction in North Gateway that are designed to attract a cross-section of buyers. Many families are drawn to the high value of the real estate dollar in upscale neighborhoods, where recreational amenities are balanced with environmental sensitivity that reflects a commitment to the preservation of the desert’s natural beauty.

North Mountain
Several attractive, diverse neighborhoods share a location that surrounds the scenic Phoenix Mountains Preserve and the Cave Creek Recreation Area. While residential developments encompass many traditional central corridor areas, they also include beautiful homes that are nestled against the foothills of Phoenix Mountains and well-established suburban neighborhoods that enjoy close proximity to the vast Metrocenter retail and entertainment complex. Another important asset to this area is Arizona State University’s West Campus. Paradise Village Mall and the wealth of services, plazas, and shopping centers that surround it are equally convenient to North Mountain residents.

One of the highlights in this neighborhood is the upscale Pointe Hilton Tapatio Cliffs Resort, perched atop the dramatic peaks of the Phoenix North Mountains. The resort offers a European village setting of richly landscaped gardens, cascading fountains, fine dining, an 18-hole golf course, superb recreational amenities, and a selection of residential opportunities. The boundaries of North Mountain Village extend from 51st Avenue to Acoma Drive, 39th Avenue to Greenway, and 16th Street to Cactus Road. They also extend through the mountains to Northern Avenue.

Paradise Valley
The sprawling and diverse northeastern quadrant of Phoenix is often called “Paradise Valley,” which can be confusing for new residents to the valley. The incorporated Town of Paradise Valley is a small, exclusive residential municipality that is completely surrounded by the City of Scottsdale. The northeastern area of the City of Phoenix that is commonly called Paradise Valley offers a wide spectrum of housing and lifestyle options, from beautiful new subdivisions to well-established neighborhoods of modest bungalows. Paradise Valley Mall anchors an amazing number of retail plazas and strip malls that also offer a myriad of specialty shops, restaurants, cafes, office centers, and service establishments.

The surrounding Phoenix Mountains offer trails for biking, hiking, and horseback riding as well as picnic areas. Recreational opportunities also are available along the Indian Bend Wash greenbelt. Loop 101 provides a quick east/west route across northern Paradise Valley, while the Piestewa Peak Parkway or SR51 ensures easy access to downtown Phoenix and the core Phoenix neighborhoods to the south. Loop 101 also links these northeast neighborhoods with Scottsdale and the East Valley as it shifts direction to provide a north/south corridor through Scottsdale into Tempe. The village extends from Scottsdale Road to 16th Street, and the Central Arizona Project canal to Piestewa Peak.

South Mountain
Rural land, family neighborhoods, historic landmarks, the major attraction of Mystery Castle, and the world’s largest municipal park are all encompassed within South Mountain Village. Convenient to downtown employment centers as well as cultural and professional sports attractions, this area also enjoys quick and easy access to Sky Harbor International Airport. Nestled in the region that lies between the Maricopa Freeway and towering South Mountain, the village was once home to a score of Japanese flower gardens, citrus orchards, small farms, and sprawling ranch properties. This area still retains much of its rural charm, harmonizing a mix of moderate to upscale housing and some industrial development. A convenient location within easy access to downtown cultural and professional sports venues as well as city and mountain views and first-rate recreational amenities makes South Mountain Village a desirable area for new residential development. Boundaries include 48th Street on the east, 27th Avenue on the west, the Salt River on the north, and the vast expanse of the South Mountain Park Preserve on the south.

Phoenix Neighborhoods

Arcadia
Aptly called by a name that means “a pastoral, peaceful place,” Arcadia is one of the most desirable of the core Phoenix neighborhoods. First developed as long ago as the 1920s by wealthy residents who desired an idyllic rural life, the area features oversized lots where sprawling ranch-style homes are shaded by hundreds of mature citrus trees. Stretching south from imposing Camelback Mountain to the Arizona Canal about two miles away, Arcadia still attracts new residents who appreciate the tranquil atmosphere and the selection of handsome homes. Many are attracted to Arcadia for the warm sense of community as well as the reputation of the public schools. Arcadia also provides one of the most convenient locations in the valley. Residents live in close proximity to upscale shopping, fine dining, professional sports venues, and important cultural attractions in both Scottsdale and Phoenix. The neighborhood actually spans Phoenix and Scottsdale, bringing together residents of both cities in a closely knit community that many describe as almost “Midwestern” in its friendly spirit.

Biltmore
The upscale core neighborhood associated with the legendary Arizona Biltmore Resort & Spa spans out from the Camelback Road corridor between 24th and 44th streets. The desirable Biltmore area is second only to downtown as the premier entertainment, shopping, and business district of Phoenix. Biltmore Fashion Park offers an oasis of fountains, lushly landscaped courtyards, brick walkways, cafes, restaurants, and high fashion. Striking a perfect blend between historic significance, new-world elegance, and international glamour, the Arizona Biltmore Resort is known throughout the world as the “Jewel of the Desert.” Nearly 40 acres of gardens, fairways, fine recreational facilities, and architecture influenced by Frank Lloyd Wright have enabled the resort to preserve an international reputation for superb hospitality. Residential development harmonizes beautifully with the resort’s luxurious atmosphere, from charming patio homes to stunning estates. Wrigley Mansion stands as the pinnacle of opulence, perched on a hill north of Biltmore Fashion Park. The chewing-gum magnate’s former estate now houses a restaurant and other fine amenities that are available to the public. Because the mansion is forced to maintain a private club status, an annual membership fee of $10 is donated in full to charity.

Moon Valley
Stretching between three scenic preserves—Moon Mountain, Lookout Mountain, and North Mountain—the north-central Phoenix neighborhood that is popular known as Moon Valley is anchored by Moon Valley Country Club. Moon Valley Park stands in the center of the neighborhood, offering opportunities for family picnics, basketball, volleyball, tennis, and relaxation. The local country club offers competitive swim team training, and many youth programs are active in this family-oriented setting, from league sports to dance and gymnastics. The strong community spirit is most evident in the level of support for local school activities and annual celebrations. Housing tends to be diverse, ranging from modest townhomes or well-kept bungalows to million-dollar hillside estates with spectacular views.