Relocating - Phoenix/Mesa?

Question

My boyfriend is a Chicago Police Officer and we found a lateral transfer for police officers to Mesa and are considering relocating...

What areas around Mesa would you suggest moving to?

More specifically, any areas to AVOID?

Are there any Mesa officers out there that have any advice?

Any info about the area is appreciated!!

Answer 1

Hey  there,

We just relocated from California to the Phoenix area and did a ton of research! We chose to live in Ahwatukee (renting) and will buy after 6 montsh so we can figure out the best place (which still migth be Ahwatukee).

So far, we love Ahwatukee; it's quiet, seems safe, nicely manicured, well planned community... pretty and affordable and close to everything. I avoided Chdler and Mesa since they are so close to the college, and we looked at crime statistics for those area's and wanted to avoid them.

I find that most critics are from natives here - and I personally have found the people extremely nice. I met a neighbor from Chicago recently that complained of being bored... I was confused by the boredom... We've been out and about every weekend. Next weekend we're going to Sedona. Then, Las Vegas. And we found great places to eat and golf. And there's plenty of space to go walking. So I haven't been bored. Guess it depends who you to talk to.

After researching crime, we are looking at Apache Junction, Gilbert, Queen Creek, and Ahwatukee for buying a home. We are avoiding Mesa, Chandler, Phoenix (downtown), and most places east of Phoenix.

Good luck!

Answer 2

I live in Dobson Ranch which is walking distance to the Dobson Police Station.  95 degrees today and sunshine. I was in the pool once and will be going in again soon.  All the clubs are in Scottsdale so live there unless he doesn't get to take his car home with him if he lives outside of Mesa.  Life is just better when the sun is shining and the sky is blue.

Answer 3

There is no night life... I was in Chandler and it is VERRY eerily quiet after dinner time.  Also something I noted on another question-- their food is different.  Cold cuts and other meats are SALTY.  Resteraunts also prepare foods differently.  I live in New England and compare it to up here.  

Answer 4

Far east Mesa is good. Stay away from central and western Mesa. Ellsworth and Guadalupe area.