Are addresses in the Phoenix area really that helpful?

Figuring out Phoenix and surrounding city addresses

Yes, an address is the unique identifier for a location within a city, and should let everyone know exactly where you live, but how useful is it?  How are addresses determined and what do they mean? Most addresses include a north/south/east/west coordinate.   North, south, east or west of what? Are all addresses based on one central coordinate in downtown Phoenix, or does each city have their own coordinate sytem?  How much  do we really rely upon an address to arrive at a destination?  If you know the answers, congratulations; if not then  read on.

Phoenix Metropolitan Growth

Currently, the Phoenix metropolitan area feels like a huge city where you can cross city limits or boundaries and not even realize that you traveled from one city to another. It hasn’t always been that  way.  The growth in many cities has been explosive.  For example, according to the 1990 census, Gilbert was a small town of 29,188. Just 10 years later in 2000, the population had grown to 109,697, an increase of 275%. Current estimates for 2012 put the Gilbert population at 212,000. Many of the cities in the Phoenix valley were incorporated in the late 1800’s or early 1900’s when it was considered a significant distance between cities or towns.  Therefore, addresses were based upon a specific crossroad or location within each community.

If you really want a trivia challenge, try and identify where the addresses originate for each valley city!  Start with your own.  Understanding this may give you a little better insight into the relative location the next time you read an address.   For example, the picture above shows the street signs at the intersection of Gilbert and Elliot, the zero point for Gilbert addresses.  Any  address on a  north/south running road that is south  of Elliot will be XXXX South and the name of the street.  If the street runs east & west, and the house is east of Gilbert Rd., the numeric  portion will be XXXX East and the name  of street.

Let’s turn to Tempe. You’ll notice that the street sign to the left shows coordinates of O West and O North.  This street sign is located at the intersection of Rio Salado Parkway and Mill Ave.  On this same intersection is the original house built by Tempe’s founder, Charles Trumbell Hayden, built in 1873.  It is the longest continuously occupied structure in the valley.  Not surprisingly, all Tempe properties look to this intersection as the origin of Tempe addresses.

If you’re ever in downtown Chandler walking around, the zero point  for all Chandler addresses  is Arizona Ave. and Commonwealth Ave. in the downtown Historical area where the city of Chandler hosts many events throughout the year.

So how do we get around?

As you can see it would be a grand undertaking to memorize all the intersections for each city that relate to the origins for their addresses.  And that is only half of the equation.  You’d still need to learn and memorize the street name.  When I moved to Gilbert many years ago I was surprised that in addition to the address the crossroads were frequently mentioned.   Fortunately for all Phoenicians, the majority of the major arterial roads do not change names as they run through  the valley cities. For example, Baseline Road starts in Apache Junction to the east and runs west through Mesa, Gilbert, Chandler, Tempe, Phoenix, and Laveen. Even in commericials, you’ll often hear the crossroads given in addition to the address.  Obviously, there is logic to each address, but unless you’re very well acquainted with each city, you’ll  find that memorizing the major arterial streets will serve you best when trying to navigate the valley.

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$685,000 :: 656 W JOHNSON Drive, Gilbert AZ, 85233

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4 beds, 2 baths
Home size: 2,374 sq ft
Lot Size: 10,019 sq ft
Added: 09/23/23, Last Updated: 09/23/23
Property Type: Single Family
MLS Number: 6608469
Community: DAVE BROWN COUNTRY ESTATES 2
Tract: DAVE BROWN COUNTRY ESTATES 2
Status: Active


Beautiful home on oversized lot with custom kitchen, stainless steel and glass countertop on bar, sub zero fridge and wine seller. Brand New AC. Private pool, BBQ and covered patio. Split floor plan with 3 car garage. RV GateSolar Panels installed in 2022. Solor information in Documents. savings from May 2023-August 2023 was $800!

Listed with HomeSmart


Brought to you by Gordon Baker, Remax Alliance Group. Call me today at 480-326-8571, or visit my website at www.myhomeinaz.com/!


$4,000,000 :: 463 W PATRICK Court, Gilbert AZ, 85233

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6 beds, 6.5 baths
Home size: 6,156 sq ft
Lot Size: 59,242 sq ft
Added: 09/22/23, Last Updated: 09/22/23
Property Type: Single Family
MLS Number: 6608961
Community: Perkins Ranch
Tract: Perkins Ranch
Status: Active


Luxury custom estate situated on over 1.3 acres in a cul-de-sac! Stunning curb appeal invites you in. Enter through the fiberglass front door into the grand entryway with sliding pocket doors to your private interior courtyard with fireplace. Wide plank oak floors in all main living areas with 6 inch baseboards, Anderson 8 ft doors and windows, and Hunter Douglas shades and curtains throughout. Designed for true indoor/ outdoor style living with 3 sliding pocket glass walls in main living space. Gourmet chef's kitchen appointed with Wolf and subzero appliances, 2 cove dishwashers, custom soft close cabinets, designer Brizo faucet and pot filler, 2 oversized custom islands with no seam, RO system, butler's pantry, tile backsplash, under cabinet lighting and 23 ft ceilings! MORE...

Listed with Russ Lyon Sotheby's International Realty


Brought to you by Gordon Baker, Remax Alliance Group. Call me today at 480-326-8571, or visit my website at www.myhomeinaz.com/!


$580,000 :: 4090 E JESSE Street, Gilbert AZ, 85295

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4 beds, 3 baths
Home size: 2,067 sq ft
Lot Size: 3,921 sq ft
Added: 08/10/23, Last Updated: 09/22/23
Property Type: Single Family
MLS Number: 6591036
Community: FULTON HOMES COOLEY STATION PARCELS 9 11 17A & 30
Tract: FULTON HOMES COOLEY STATION PARCELS 9 11 17A & 30
The price of this listing was last reduced on 9/22/2023 by 1%
Status: Active


Are you looking for a place to call your own? Discover a delightful two-story residence just moments away from schools, restaurants, & shopping. This home is a balance of convenience & modern living! Be greeted by an appealing great room displaying soft carpeting & tile flooring, a soothing palette, & sliding glass doors to ensure the space is bathed in natural light. The kitchen boasts granite counters, subway tile backsplash, recessed lighting, cabinets w/crown molding, a pantry, matching appliances, & an island w/breakfast bar. A versatile loft area is perfect for a reading nook! The main bedroom offers a private bathroom w/dual sinks & walk-in closet. Low-care courtyard has a covered patio, ready to host gatherings & weekend BBQs. See it now!

Listed with Keller Williams Integrity First


Brought to you by Gordon Baker, Remax Alliance Group. Call me today at 480-326-8571, or visit my website at www.myhomeinaz.com/!


$530,000 :: 1007 N Palm Street, Gilbert AZ, 85234

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3 beds, 2 baths
Home size: 1,602 sq ft
Lot Size: 6,970 sq ft
Added: 09/22/23, Last Updated: 09/22/23
Property Type: Single Family
MLS Number: 6608929
Community: Vista Alegre
Tract: Vista Alegre
Status: Active


Amazing house in Gilbert! Wood like tile through out the house with a fresh coat of interior paint. New Windows, two sheds, one garden shed and one highly insulated storage shed 10x20 feet. No hoa, no electric poles, high brick wall on backyard with extreme privacy, close to the 60 freeway and amazing school district. Come and live in a highly sought area!!

Listed with Keller Williams Realty Phoenix


Brought to you by Gordon Baker, Remax Alliance Group. Call me today at 480-326-8571, or visit my website at www.myhomeinaz.com/!


$775,000 :: 6229 S BANNING Street, Gilbert AZ, 85298

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5 beds, 2.5 baths
Home size: 3,433 sq ft
Lot Size: 7,841 sq ft
Added: 07/29/23, Last Updated: 09/22/23
Property Type: Single Family
MLS Number: 6584528
Community: SHAMROCK ESTATES PHASE 1
Tract: SHAMROCK ESTATES PHASE 1
The price of this listing was last reduced on 9/21/2023 by 3%
Status: Active


Move-in ready in the fantastic Shamrock Estates community! So many wonderful upgrades, from the OWNED solar to the high efficiency silent HVAC systems to the flooring upgrades to the decorative paint/accent walls, and SO MUCH MORE! In the past 1.5 years, this fantastic home has received new tile flooring, carpet, 2-unit silent HVAC system, ductwork, insulation, soft water & RO systems, garage opener, pool salt system, interior paint, and decorative accent walls. This beautiful and spacious home offers 5 bedrooms, an upstairs loft, 2.5 bathrooms, 3 car tandem garage, and separate living and dining room. The gourmet kitchen features two-tone cabinets, quartz countertops, stainless appliances, gas stove top, and a large island with pendant lighting that overlooks the inviting resort style

Listed with Realty ONE Group


Brought to you by Gordon Baker, Remax Alliance Group. Call me today at 480-326-8571, or visit my website at www.myhomeinaz.com/!


$650,000 :: 1284 E APRICOT Lane, Gilbert AZ, 85298

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4 beds, 3 baths
Home size: 2,610 sq ft
Lot Size: 8,277 sq ft
Added: 09/22/23, Last Updated: 09/22/23
Property Type: Single Family
MLS Number: 6608582
Community: VISTA DORADA 2
Tract: VISTA DORADA 2
Status: Active


Sore Muscles? THIS IS THE HOUSE FOR YOU! Comes with above ground therapy spa as well as therapy jets in the pool! The interior welcomes you with soaring vaulted ceilings and tile floors, flowing through a spacious living room. Two full bedrooms downstairs for those who don't like stairs. A well-appointed kitchen boasts upgraded maple cabinets, sleek SS appliances, double oven, granite counters, a pantry, and a center island with breakfast bar. A versatile loft presents the perfect entertainment space. A cozy den provides an ideal setting for a home office. Master bedroom with spacious walk in closet and large master bath. Outside, enjoy a lush backyard featuring a covered patio, a charming gazebo, verdant grass, and a refreshing pool. Large RV gate for the toys and extra storage.

Listed with West USA Realty


Brought to you by Gordon Baker, Remax Alliance Group. Call me today at 480-326-8571, or visit my website at www.myhomeinaz.com/!


$734,900 :: 4160 S COLUMBUS Drive, Gilbert AZ, 85297

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4 beds, 3 baths
Home size: 1,967 sq ft
Lot Size: 6,534 sq ft
Added: 09/12/23, Last Updated: 09/22/23
Property Type: Single Family
MLS Number: 6604300
Community: STRATFORD
Tract: STRATFORD
The price of this listing was last reduced on 9/22/2023 by 1%
Status: Active


Introducing a Stunning New Home in the Heart of Gilbert, AZ!This magnificent home, completed in June 2023, is a real gem in the East Valley. This outstanding property checks all the boxes for your dream home. Key Features include:✨ Modern Elegance: Step into a world of modern luxury with this meticulously designed home. The 10-foot ceilings create an open and airy ambiance that will leave you in awe. Upgraded wood look tile throughout create a consistent and rich feel throughout the home. 🛏️ Spacious Living: With 4 generously sized bedrooms and 3 beautifully appointed bathrooms, there's plenty of room for the whole family. Each space is thoughtfully designed to maximize comfort and style.

Listed with RE/MAX Solutions


Brought to you by Gordon Baker, Remax Alliance Group. Call me today at 480-326-8571, or visit my website at www.myhomeinaz.com/!


$459,900 :: 1904 E APPALOOSA Road, Gilbert AZ, 85296

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3 beds, 2 baths
Home size: 1,445 sq ft
Lot Size: 6,534 sq ft
Added: 09/07/23, Last Updated: 09/22/23
Property Type: Single Family
MLS Number: 6599714
Community: Rancho Cimarron
Tract: Rancho Cimarron
The price of this listing was last reduced on 9/22/2023 by 2%
Status: Active


This fully renovated home is ready for immediate move-in. Inside, fresh paint complements new quartz countertops in the kitchen and bathrooms. A modern stainless steel appliance suite awaits culinary endeavors. Matte black fixtures and handles provide a sleek finish, offset by warm oak laminate flooring and plush bedroom carpets. Outdoors, enjoy a low maintenance natural grass yard and beautifully maintained shade trees. Benefit from a new roof with a 10-year underlayment warranty. Updated lighting and 4-inch baseboards uplift the entire space, while two backyard sheds cater to all your gardening and storage needs.

Listed with Realty ONE Group


Brought to you by Gordon Baker, Remax Alliance Group. Call me today at 480-326-8571, or visit my website at www.myhomeinaz.com/!


$775,000 :: 891 W LAREDO Avenue, Gilbert AZ, 85233

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5 beds, 3 baths
Home size: 3,755 sq ft
Lot Size: 8,277 sq ft
Added: 09/01/23, Last Updated: 09/22/23
Property Type: Single Family
MLS Number: 6599848
Community: MADERA PARC ESTATES
Tract: MADERA PARC ESTATES
Status: Active


Spacious and upgraded 5-bedroom home for sale in the highly sought-after area of Gilbert. This semi-custom home w/Owned Solar is a rare find with two large bonus rooms/lofts & 2 bedrooms w/a full bath downstairs. The interior was meticulously remodeled in 2018 with lots of ''18''x 6'' tile & upgraded carpet/pad, crown molding, 5/12'' Baseboards & updated fixtures/fans, gorgeous kitchen features white shaker cabinets w/crown molding, hardware & soft close, quartz counters w/subway tile backsplash, stainless steel appliances, pantry & island/breakfast bar, cozy up to the real wood-burning fireplace in the family room. The full-length covered patio & grass yard offer ample space for outdoor activities, & the extended length 3.5-car garage provides plenty of room for storage. +OWNED SOLAR+

Listed with Keller Williams Integrity First


Brought to you by Gordon Baker, Remax Alliance Group. Call me today at 480-326-8571, or visit my website at www.myhomeinaz.com/!


$580,000 :: 1963 E LAFAYETTE Avenue, Gilbert AZ, 85298

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4 beds, 3 baths
Home size: 2,762 sq ft
Lot Size: 9,148 sq ft
Added: 09/21/23, Last Updated: 09/22/23
Property Type: Single Family
MLS Number: 6608220
Community: EVANS RANCH
Tract: EVANS RANCH
Status: Active


Great opportunity to purchase a home that is priced well below comps for a quick sale. It is in a peaceful and friendly neighborhood and close to A rated schools. It features 4 bedrooms (1 downstairs) 3 full baths, flex space that could be formal dining/office/? And a giant loft area. The kitchen opens to a great room. Hurry, this super investment won't last long.

Listed with RE/MAX Alliance Group


Brought to you by Gordon Baker, Remax Alliance Group. Call me today at 480-326-8571, or visit my website at www.myhomeinaz.com/!


 

 

 

 

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