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Willo

Willo

Neighborhood in Phoenix, Arizona

Maricopa County 85003, 85004

$754,717 Average Value
$408 Average Price per Sq Ft
32 Homes For Sale

Willo is a place whose classic character fits into the present day

From 1920s Craftsman bungalows to 1940s Spanish Colonials, Willo is an area where buyers can find classic homes that have been reimagined. This central Phoenix neighborhood is full of houses built in the early to mid-20th century, most with upgrades and modern touches. “Willo has the most remodeled, up-to-date homes out of the historic neighborhoods,” says Realtor Mike Snitz of eXp Realty, who has roughly a dozen years of experience selling real estate and a background in real estate investments. These homes, which are organized on a series of palm-lined streets, are close to amenity-packed Central Avenue and the array of attractions in downtown Phoenix.

Beautifully constructed townhomes add to the historic feel of the Encanto neighborhood.
Beautifully constructed townhomes add to the historic feel of the Encanto neighborhood.
In Willo, single-family homes stand as a testament to Phoenix's rich architectural heritage.
In Willo, single-family homes stand as a testament to Phoenix's rich architectural heritage.
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Established housing stock attracts people from other areas

Willo was among Phoenix's first planned suburbs, and most homes were constructed from the 1920s to the '50s. Styles vary from Tudor to ranch, and floor plans average around 2,000 square feet. Snitz estimates that fewer than 10% of the houses in Willo still need a complete renovation. They are turnkey homes that even attract buyers from other parts of the region who are ready for a smaller but more conveniently located property. “A lot of people from North Scottsdale and North Phoenix who are downsizing from bigger homes and want to be in the downtown area are coming to Willo because the homes have already been remodeled,” Snitz says. Houses sell for $600,000 to $1.6 million. The neighborhood has some limited, modern condos for $280,000 to $500,000 and townhouses for $390,000 to $2.5 million.

Step into Willo's ready-to-move-in homes, where vintage aesthetics meet contemporary living.
Step into Willo's ready-to-move-in homes, where vintage aesthetics meet contemporary living.
The palm-lined streets of Willo create a picturesque canopy that defines the neighborhood's historic charm.
The palm-lined streets of Willo create a picturesque canopy that defines the neighborhood's historic charm.
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Central Avenue is a center of commercial activity

The lengthy Central Avenue places a mixture of stores and restaurants within a walk or a short drive. Forno 301 is among them. “A fantastic pizzeria,” Snitz says. Besides pizza, Forno 301's ravioli is a favorite dish. The Wild Thaiger is a Thai spot on Central Avenue known for its dragon eggs dumplings, and CC’s on Central brings Cajun flavor to the area with po’boys, jambalaya and more. Locals can also catch a show in the neighborhood at Playhouse On The Park or hop across Central Avenue to view the 20,000 items at the Phoenix Art Museum. There’s also a Safeway grocery store just down the street from the museum along McDowell Road.

Indulge in authentic Cajun flavors at CC's on Central, a culinary gem in Willo.
Indulge in authentic Cajun flavors at CC's on Central, a culinary gem in Willo.
Forno301 offers fine Italian dining in the Alvarado Historic District near Wilo.
Forno301 offers fine Italian dining in the Alvarado Historic District near Wilo.
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An active neighborhood association with a popular Historic Willo Home tour

Willo has a neighborhood association that organizes events, including a monthly happy hour and a spring yard sale. The association publishes the monthly Inside Willo Magazine, featuring neighborhood news. “Willo is one of the most active neighborhood associations in the downtown community,” Snitz says. “From a political standpoint, I believe something like 90% of the people vote in that neighborhood, which is outstanding. So people [there] are engaged.” The neighborhood’s biggest event is the annual Historic Willo Home Tour in February, which draws thousands and includes dozens of vendors, food trucks and a classic car show. “In the Willo neighborhood, that’s a very big draw,” Snitz says. “Not only for that neighborhood but also for anybody in the Phoenix Metro area who wants to come down and look at the neighborhood and historic homes and how they’ve been remodeled.”

Kenilworth partners with the YMCA for after-school activities

Phoenix Elementary School District No. 1 has a C-plus grade on Niche. Most students in Willo can start at the C-rated Kenilworth Elementary for preschool to eighth grade. Offerings at Kenilworth include a free after-school program in partnership with Valley of the Sun YMCA that features homework help and physical activities. The area’s B-minus-rated Central High has a Global Studies magnet program that allows students to travel to places including China, Costa Rica, France, Japan and Mexico. The A-rated Arizona School for the Arts is a tuition-free charter school close by with dedicated dance, music and theater programs.

Kenilworth Elementary School stands as a historic landmark in Willo, showcasing Neo-Classical architecture since its opening in 1920.​
Kenilworth Elementary School stands as a historic landmark in Willo, showcasing Neo-Classical architecture since its opening in 1920.​
Central High School, established in 1957, stands as a beacon of education just north of Willo.
Central High School, established in 1957, stands as a beacon of education just north of Willo.
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Relaxation at Walton Park or amusement at Encanto Park

Willo residents have Walton Park, a pocket park in the middle of the neighborhood. Though small, Walton features multiple benches and trees, and can be a spot to enjoy lunch or read a book. The neighborhood is also next to the 222-acre Encanto Park, which includes a playground, a sports complex with basketball, tennis and volleyball courts, and 18- and nine-hole golf courses. There’s a built-in amusement park here as well, Enchanted Island, with a parachute drop tower, a climbing wall, bumper boats and a carousel.

Commuting is possible by foot, bike, bus or car

Much of Willo is walkable to Walton Park or to grab a bite on Central Avenue. Locals can also hop on two wheels to get around more quickly. “It’s a very [big] biking area,” Snitz says. “A lot of families and people start from home and bike around the downtown area.” Bus stops in the Valley Metro system also dot the area. Drivers have quick access to Interstate 10, just south, which travelers can use to get to Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport, a 6-mile trip. Residents can get to the 576-bed St. Joseph's Hospital and Medical Center, located just outside the neighborhood off Thomas Road.

Cycling enthusiasts appreciate Willo's bike-friendly streets and nearby trails.​
Cycling enthusiasts appreciate Willo's bike-friendly streets and nearby trails.​
Willo's proximity to multiple bus routes ensures seamless commutes throughout the city.
Willo's proximity to multiple bus routes ensures seamless commutes throughout the city.
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Wayne Epps Jr.
Written By
Wayne Epps Jr.
Alex Medina
Photography Contributed By
Alex Medina
Daniel Quattro
Video By
Daniel Quattro

Agents Specializing in this Area

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Schools

Source:
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

Interested in learning more about homes in this area? Reach out to Mario Romero, an experienced agent in this neighborhood.

Parks in this Area

Transit

Airport

Phoenix Sky Harbor International

14 min drive

Bus

Mcdowell Rd & Central Av

Bus

7th Av & Mcdowell Rd

Bus

Central Av & Thomas Rd

Bus

7th Av & Palm Ln

Bus

Mcdowell Rd & 5th Av

Bus

Mcdowell Rd & 3rd Av

Bus

7th Av & Virginia Av

Crime and Safety

1 - Low Crime, 10 - High Crime Willo US
Homicide 3 4
Sexual Assault 4 4
Assault with Weapon 4 4
Robbery 4 4
Burglary 7 4
Motor Vehicle Theft 7 4
Larceny 8 4
Crime Score 6 4

Source: WhatIsMyCrimeRisk.com

Demographics and Home Trends

Home Trends

Median Price (12 Mo)
$670,000
Median Single Family Price
$837,500
Median Townhouse Price
$1,850,000
Median 2 Bedroom Price
$437,000
Median 1 Bedroom Price
$295,000
Average Price Per Sq Ft
$408
Number of Homes for Sale
32
Last 12 months Home Sales
72
Months of Supply
5.30
Median List Price
$749,450
Median Discount From 1st List Price
4%
Median Home Sale Price YoY Change
-3%

Home Facts

Number of Homes in Neighborhood
1,211
Median Year Built
1942
Avg. Single Family Home Size Sq Ft
2,052
Above the national average
1,935
Average Townhouse Size Sq Ft
4,488
Average 2 Bedroom Size Sq Ft
1,405
Average 1 Bedroom Size Sq Ft
914
Median Lot Size Sq Ft
8,276

Open Houses

  • Saturday, Apr 26
    11am - 1pm

    87 W Windsor Ave, Phoenix, AZ 85003

    $1,395,000

    • 6 Beds
    • 4.5 Baths
    • 1,976 Sq Ft
    • 87 W Windsor Ave
    • New 3 days ago

    Eclectic Tudor Revival in the Heart of Historic Charm! Step into a 1925 red brick Tudor Revival like no other—reimagined for modern living with integrity, soul, and timeless style. Nestled in one of the most desirable historic neighborhoods, this one-of-a-kind home has undergone a thoughtful, year-long renovation, blending vintage character with today's comforts. Inside, you'll find oak hardwood

    John Groves Coldwell Banker Realty

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  • Saturday, Apr 26
    11am - 2pm

    535 W Thomas Rd Unit 407, Phoenix, AZ 85013

    $287,000

    • 1 Bed
    • 1 Bath
    • 934 Sq Ft
    • 535 W Thomas Rd
    • Unit 407
    • New 9 days ago

    Discover your perfect urban sanctuary in Midtown Willo! This exquisite 1-bedroom loft penthouse condo seamlessly combines luxury and comfort, offering breathtaking views of Downtown and the mountains. Located directly across from Dignity Health/St. Joseph's Hospital and Barrows Neurological Center, your commute to work has never been easier. Step into a stylish kitchen featuring a stunning

    Raleigh Dombek Compass

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  • Sunday, Apr 27
    10am - 2pm

    541 W Palm Ln, Phoenix, AZ 85003

    $975,000

    • 4 Beds
    • 3 Baths
    • 2,415 Sq Ft
    • 541 W Palm Ln
    • New 23 days ago

    WELCOME TO WILLO! Located on the iconic Palm Lane, this rare historic property is zoned multi-family and offers TWO HOUSES! The main house features 3 bedrooms plus a den and 2 bathrooms. Beautiful archways, original niches, and beautiful historic details have been preserved throughout while also being modernized and enhanced with designer details. Large rooms, great storage and a fantastic floor

    James Judge HomeSmart

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Distribution of Home Values

Source: Public Records

Homes for Sale

Homes for Rent

Interested in learning more about homes in this area? Reach out to Mario Romero, an experienced agent in this neighborhood.

Average Home Value




Source: Public Records

Property Mix - Square Feet

This Neighborhood Has More Owners

Demographics

Total Population
3,128
Median Age
44
Population under 18
14.4%
Below the national average
23.8%
Population over 65
18.4%
On par with the national average
19.1%

Finances

Median Household Income
$105,446
Significantly above the national average
$71,702
Average Household Income
$153,158

Education and Workforce

High School Graduates
97.6%
College Graduates
75.2%
Significantly above the national average
34.1%
Advanced Degrees
32%
Above the national average
13.3%
% Population in Labor Force
74.7%

Weather

Annual Precipitation
7''
Average Winter Low Temperature
45°F
Average Summer High Temperature
107°F
Annual Snowfall
0''

Area Factors

Bikeable

Bike Score®

67 / 100

Somewhat Walkable

Walk Score®

67 / 100

Good Transit

Transit Score®

56 / 100
Source: Walk Score
Source: Walk Score

Sound Score® measures the noise level of any address. Transit Score® measures access to public transit. Bike Score® measures the bikeability of any address.

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Disclaimer: Certain information contained herein is derived from information provided by parties other than Homes.com. Our sources include: Accuweather, Public Records and Neustar. All information provided is deemed reliable, but is not guaranteed to be accurate and should be independently verified.
NEIGHBORHOOD
Willo
Mario Romero
The Melcher Agency
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