Avondale, what's it like?? (Phoenix, Goodyear: houses, college, to live)

[Evil Sleeper]

As the title says, I'll be moving there in october from chicago due to college. I'm only wondering how is the area there? Is it a safe place? are there attractions, is it near Phoenix?

Thanks in advance!!

[CodyW]

Avondale is a city in the southwest valley. That, you probably know. It borders, and is often associated with Goodyear, to the west. It also shares a border with Phoenix.

As like most west valley cities, the area didn't see much growth for a LONG time; they remained rural farming communities. Until the growth wave hit them. And now they're just miles of brown boxes people seem to call houses.

Goodyear is trying to define itself as being more 'upscale.' And it shows in prices, too. Avondale, while it's trying desperately to improve its image, is still Goodyear's 'working class' counterpart.

It is still very similar to the rest of the valley, though. As in, there isn't ONE set area to stay away from, there are pockets of good and bad areas, EVERYWHERE, and things can either go downhill, or uphill very quickly.

There are alot of things to do within short distance of Avondale. If you're a Nascar fan, Avondale is home to Phoenix International Raceway. If you're a nature fan, you've got easy access to the Estrella Mountains, the White Tanks, and South Mountain. Theres alot of shopping nearby, and the beginnings of a new mall opening up in Goodyear in 2008. You're also in pretty short distance of Downtown Phoenix. Central Phoenix (AKA; Copper Square) is unlike the CBD's of some other American cities, there is very little life to be had. People generally only go there if they have to. But, there's some neat things to do.

All in all, Avondale isn't bad. Its in a good location, and I like the vibe I get when I'm there, but, you have to be pretty careful in picking where you're going to live.

[Evil Sleeper]

Thanks for your help. Very much appreciated.