Hey, I'm planning on relocating to AZ May '08. I am thinking in the Maricopa County area. I have some friends in Mesa, Gilbert, and Chandler but I have never visited. I have heard some wonderful things about AZ. I am really worried about picking the right area because I have sons that will be going to High School. I am looking at applying to the Mayo Clinic for work so I was wondering what areas do you think I should look in for housing and a good high school? I want to research the areas before I go and pick out a place for my honey to come home to. If you have any suggestions or anything I should know about resources (i.e. housing, jobs, or family fun activities), please share. Thanks in advance.

I used to work (recently) for the DES which is our state help agency for food, medical etc. I'm not sure of your situation and finances, but maybe I can answer some questions for you.

As for cities to live in... there is a lot of variety in each city.
I personally do not like the southern portion of Chandler, central Mesa or south Phoenix for drug reasons. But then, drugs can be found everywhere. I do not like the atmosphere. I prefer Gilbert, Gold Canyon and if I had the money Paradise Valley, Fountain Hills (near Mayo Clinic's northern facility), etc. I love the more natural areas with rural feels but also with the metro access. I also have a daughter to look out for, and I only find the best schools, childcare, etc for her. I am very careful about these things. I might reccomend that you go to greatschools.net too. It gives some good info. So, send me a message for more specific info.
An early welcome to the valley!

Thanks for the feedback. I know what you mean by the drug problems, it comes along with a metro area but it is everywhere. I'm going to check out those areas.

One tip I can give, is when looking for housing, make sure you ask if it's in a Crime Free Zone or not. Because if it is, your honey will have a hard time or maybe not even be able to live there. So, make sure you ask. I'm from Peoria and love it. I've grown up here and have really come to love it here. Also, a lot of what area you live in depends on your budget. So, you might want to research that or you can PM me with more questions.

Thanks Heather

You can go to the North Phoenix, North Glendale, North Peoria....There are 2 Mayo Clinics both in NE Maricopa County. If you head towards NE Phoenix/Scottsdale you'll do just fine.

Thank you jesses!