We already knew that millennials and older generations shared a mutual affection for condos in Tempe, Downtown Phoenix, and Scottsdale. Now, according to new findings by the National Association of Realtors we’ve leared about another preference they both have for where they live: Walkability.

The 2017 National Community and Transportation Preference Survey, found that while 53 percent of Americans would prefer to live in communities with small yards but within easy walking distance to amenities, 62 percent of millennials and 55 percent of the silent generation (those born before WWII) would prefer living in an apartment or condominium if it meant living in walkable communities 

What does this mean for Phoenix? If the city wants to attract both millennial and older homebuyers, residences that are within walking distance of community amenities, retail, and restaurants are important. Luckily, there are established and upcoming communities that fit that role in the region.

Eastmark - Mesa

Eastmark in Mesa is a prime example of a master-planned community that has made the most of what it had to offer. You can find residents walking one of the 25 neighborhood parks, including the 96-acre Eastmark Great Park. The community center and its giant pool provide residents with a space to relax and have fun. On-site restaurant Handlebar Diner is popular with residents and an upcoming Safeway will make it possible to go grocery shopping without leaving the community. For kids, there are currently two charter schools in the community while a high school and early learning center are both in the works.

Downtown Phoenix

Downtown Phoenix is a favorite of career-oriented residents and those who want to have a lot of options readily available. It’s home to commercial buildings, luxury residential properties, and loft-style condos (and a lot of nude statues). Within minutes, residents can walk to multiple restaurants, shops, or bars, with most able to run errands by foot. The Orpheum Lofts, a 1930’s building that was completely modernized, provides historic charm, while Summit at Copper Square offers a 24-hour guard and secured entry, pool, indoor/outdoor rooftop clubhouse, business center, and gym all with the excitement of the city’s heartbeat at your fingertips. It also finally just got its own grocery store, putting just one more resource within walking distance.

Arcadia - Phoenix

Courtesy of Phoenix Track Club

Arcadia is an older neighborhood but often considered one of the best in Phoenix due to the lush landscapes and proximity to Old Town Scottsdale and Downtown Phoenix as well as hiking destinations Camelback Mountain and Piestewa Peak. There is an impressive selection of restaurants, cafes, and shops within walking or biking distance, leaving little need for a vehicle. And though it may be one of the higher-priced areas to live, the neighborhood offers a quieter approach to walkable living. New home developments are continually popping up in the area.&

Old Town - Scottsdale

Old Town Scottsdale is a neighborhood that finds a way to balance historic charm with city vibrancy. Culture and arts lend to the richness of character, as well as entertainment options, while shopping and dining options along 5th Avenue are literally steps from each other. Head over to Main Street, which was recently named America’s Best “Main Street,” where you can walk to over 70 art galleries. You can’t get closer to walkable amenities than at the 4020 Scottsdale Old Town Lofts, as the shops and restaurants start downstairs.

Morrison Ranch - Gilbert

Morrison Ranch is a master-planned community in Gilbert that offers a mixture of low-, medium-, and high-density residential areas that connects with local businesses and recreational space. Among the 400 acres of common space, you’ll be able to walk to numerous playgrounds, catch-and-release fishing lakes, and miles of trails. There’s also the easily walkable Morrison Town Center, which contains 115 acres of shopping and dining. Morrison Ranch Business Center offers a 275-acre campus that hosts businesses and a technology complex, so you could even walk to work.