85254?

[monsoon74]

It is a nice area, but the homes are 'older' by Phoenix standards. Not old like LA, where there are many homes are from the '20s and '30s, but I'm talking from the ''60s and 70's. There are newer homes, of course, but the area is not as new as other areas like a little further north of this zip code.

[sablebaby]

There are actually a lot of newer homes in that zip. But even though the other homes are older, there are some NICE ones. Updated and remodelled. Plus, bigger lots are to be had there. But overall the area in general is great.

[Thunderbird76]

If you guys are DINKS looking for young professional areas....consider downtown Willo District, Biltmore area(there's a great pocket of homes called Wrigley Terrace & Beverly Manor) or 85254... You'll be bored to death if you move to one of our sprawling burbs...all the homes look the same...stucco boxes with no character and your standard chain restaurants and shopping.

[LadmoFan]

I'd stick to whatever side of the valley you are working in. Crossing Black Canyon Hghway on a daily basis would probably be a real chore. Traffic moves a bit quicker in Phoenix but like LA I suspect it does get bogged down during rush hour.

We were in Phoenix about two weeks ago, traffic wasn't bad, but we were not driving during rush hour.

Also, at the price of gasoline it pays to live a bit closer to where you plan to work.

LF

[IMoveU]

Despite the similarities it is exciting to know that in Phoenix, unlike LA, we can actually afford to buy a home close to the downtown area.

Why not consider the downtown area? There are some awesome neighborhoods for young professionals avilable in that price range. 85254 is nice but it is a commute and very pricey. You will get more home for the $$$ in the suburbs but it will be more of a familial environment.