Phoenix Area City for Ease Desert Photography (Mesa, Scottsdale: renter, retirement)

[mceimages]

I am planning to retire to Phoenix area (do not want a retirement comm.) and will probably rent an apt. for an extended period. I was looking at Chandler and possible Scottsdale. Can you recommend any areas that would give me easy access to the desert for photography work? My hobby. I will not be working.

Thanks.

[Jkgourmet]

Very north Scottsdale would give you good access to the desert (deserted areas, as I assume that is what you are looking for). Other areas that you MIGHT want to consider are NE Mesa (just below Usury Mountain Park and Saguaro Lake), which would also put you very close to the Superstition Mountains. Apache Junction offers similar opportunities, but is more 'rural.'

To the SE, you might want to check into San Tan Valley, Queen Creek and Higley. Again, farther out, but right on the edge of the desert.

I love Chandler, but I don't think it's going to be as close to the open ranges as I suspect you are seeking.

[mceimages]

Thanks Jkgourmet: I appreciate your response. I was in Scottsdale when I was in AZ in the late 1990's. I am sure it changed a lot but would I be able to rent a nice 1 bedroom apt. for around $600 per month? Thanks again

Originally Posted by Jkgourmet

Very north Scottsdale would give you good access to the desert (deserted areas, as I assume that is what you are looking for). Other areas that you MIGHT want to consider are NE Mesa (just below Usury Mountain Park and Saguaro Lake), which would also put you very close to the Superstition Mountains. Apache Junction offers similar opportunities, but is more 'rural.'

To the SE, you might want to check into San Tan Valley, Queen Creek and Higley. Again, farther out, but right on the edge of the desert.

I love Chandler, but I don't think it's going to be as close to the open ranges as I suspect you are seeking.

[Jkgourmet]

Originally Posted by mceimages

Thanks Jkgourmet: I appreciate your response. I was in Scottsdale when I was in AZ in the late 1990's. I am sure it changed a lot but would I be able to rent a nice 1 bedroom apt. for around $600 per month? Thanks again

I can't say for sure - I haven't been a renter for 20+ years. But I'm doubtful. The farther you get away from Scottsdale (generally speaking), the cheaper the rents will be.