We live in north Peoria, and are more familiar with the N, NW, and W areas of Phoenix. About a month ago, I was in the SE area of Phoenix and checked out Gilbert. I think Peoria, Glendale, and Gilbert are all very nice cities. I found that Gilbert looks very similar to Peoria and Glendale just like most of the cities look around the actual city of Phoenix. West Gilbert, south Peoria, and south Glendale are the older areas. And, east Gilbert, north Peoria, and north Glendale are the newer areas, and in my opinion the nicer areas to live. I noticed Gilbert's mountains are in the distance whereas north Peoria and north Glendale are right next to as well as in the mountains.
About your other questions, I can only provide answers for Peoria and Glendale since we live in this area. Regarding public bus transportation, there is in central/south Peoria and I think also in central/south Glendale (maybe north Glendale?) too. All schools have bus transportation. Lots of shopping all around Peoria and Glendale, especially in the Arrowhead Mall area as well as the newer areas of Lake Pleasant Towne Center and Camino a Lago Center. There are quite a few good colleges to choose from in the area. Most schools in Peoria and Glendale are "excelling" which is the highest rating. Our specific schools (all excelling) are Vistancia Elementary, Liberty, and Sunrise Mountain, and we are very pleased. We live in Vistancia (north Peoria), and love it. Best wishes in your search and welcome soon to AZ!
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