Garfield, Phoenix, AZ

The Garfield neghborhood isn't quite as desirable as the nearby neighborhoods of Willo or Encanto, but it has changed greatly in just the past ten years.  The area is gentrifying, and while there are plenty of vacant lots and run-down places, there's also wonderful older homes that can be bought for significantly less than other historic neighborhoods in Phoenix.

Roosevelt is one of the oldest parts of town, dating back to the late 1800's.  Homes were built here from the 1890's through the 1930's; most are bungalow style homes.  Originally built as a 'streetcar neighborhood', over 700 homes from that era are still in existance--in varying stages of repair.  For those considering an older home purchase here, there are Historic Preservation Funds available.  This is one of the few places in central Phoenix where it is still possible to buy a home for under $200,000, and renters in the area should expect to pay @$850 a month for a 2 bedroom apartment.

Garfield's location is quite good, as it is within walking distance of Chase Field (where the Diamondbacks play) and ASU downtown.  The new light rail line recently opened and it is a quick walk to the line from the neighborhood.  However, it is a higher crime area for theft, burglary, stolen vehicles and vandalism.  The very busy I-10 is the northern border of the neighborhood and the 51 is just east, so the constant hum of traffic is a given.

This area was rife with gangs and drugs in the early 1990s, but the city has made great strides in closing down known drug houses and making it safer for the residents.  However, the areas around Roosevelt Road are dicey, and the further east of 7th Street, the less attractive the neighborhood. 

Residents here have either lived in the area for a long time, or are younger people wanting to live in an urban area.  Garfield has a large artist presence, and the nearby Roosevelt Row artist district (Central to 7th Street on Roosevelt) helps with the overall atmosphere of the place    

To find out more about this area, the community keeps a website at www.garfieldorganization.com