we are thinking about relocating from socal to Phoenix - cost of living as well as housing prices are so high!

Any suggestions on where to buy a home? we would like a newer home in a younger family community. We have two kids - 4 yrs old and 7 months old. Schools are most impt to us and of course to be in a nice, safe community w/ other young families. Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated. Thanks!

Parent Answers to "we are thinking about relocating from socal to Phoenix - cost of living as well as housing prices are so high!"

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I live in Northern california now, but have lived in the Los Angeles area and spent a lot of time in Phoenix on vacations. Moving from LA to Phoenix will be a welcome change for you. The Phoenix area is MUCH more affordable, and from what I have seen, has pretty much all of the good stuff of the LA area, and none of the bad. Much less crime, much cleaner, more affordable area. Everything is just a few minutes away in the Phoenix area, and the "traffic" is nothing like LA. As far as buying a home goes, based on what you are looking for in a community I would say that Gilbert is a great option. It is a very clean, new and affordable community and there are excellent schools. Real estate is really cheap in AZ these days, and coming from california, I wouldn't be surprised if you could afford to live in one of the upscale communites like Fountain Hills.

I wish I could be of more help, nut I am not too familiar with the East Valley cities. I do have quite a few associates that live in Mesa, which is very close to Gilbert & they love the East Valley! Sorry i could not be of more assistance, but I am sure it is a GREAT city.

I just met a woman the other night who said Gilbert is the most family oriented city and she loves the school system. I also have a family member who lives in Gilbert and loves it there.

Good luck with the move - welcome to your new home, we love transplants!

I would suggest looking North of Phoenix, like in Anthem, or far West, like Litchfield, or Goodyear. Anthem is very nice, but you will probably be looking at a commute to get to work. But, I am sure you are used to that living in California! I would choose Anthem over Litchfield or Goodyear, but it depends on what price range you are looking at, and how important location, in relation to your work, is. I have lived in Arizona for 37 years & have a 5 year old son. If you have more specifics, I'de be more then happy to give an opinion. Good luck & WELCOME to the Valley of The Sun!

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