Need info--Tucson Mtn Village 1 & 2 (SW area) new homes-to buy or not to buy? (Ajo: crime)

[B'more-Md]

& the greater Kinney & Ajo Road areas??

[B'more-Md]

50 something & been away from AZ for 32 years & live in the East, but visit family in AZ often. I recently discovered the southwest area of Tucson and it appeals to me--but have questions...
I may move to Tucson --and buy a new house in the SW area--. The mountain views are great---especially Tucson Mtn Park, Cat Mtn, etc.. I like the area's close proximity to the city (Downtown & I-19 access) and yet it still feels country-ish..
So, how safe is the southwest area to live in ---what's the crime-rate like? (Obviously, crime can happen anywhere,-so how does it really compare to other parts of Tucson? Any gang problems?
Any comments on various neighborhoods/new housing developments, areas to be careful of? I understand that much of the area is not in the city limits--So, what are the pros & cons of living in 'Pima County' versus City of Tucson? How are the services in the county? What's the growth potential for that area---I know Walmart is coming in a year or so---anything else? Can you get a pizza delivered out there? Can you easily & reasonably get a taxi home--say from Downtown--if you've had a few too many...? What about flooding? What areas are most vulnerable? Any info appreciated...
For now--just researching areas to consider moving to. ...And the job market questions??---That'll be a another topic of discussion for a later time....

[Mudd]

Umm, I'd stay away from that area. You're still VERY close to the worst problem areas in Tucson. Gangs are prominent and the schools are horrid. Property crime in that general area is insane.

You'll want to look either in the northwest side of town (Continental Ranch is a good start), east and southeast (look into Rita Ranch), or even Rancho Sahuarita which is a little past the south of Tucson - all are nicer developments. The east side isn't bad, and has the best schools. North side is where you want to be. North of River Road is the only area I'd consider.

General rule of thumb, southwest side, downtown, and most southern parts of Tucson are slums.

[bruno_s_mom]

I've lived in the newer communities on the Southwest side of Tucson for one year now and I think there are a lot of misconceptions about it.

In the one year I have been there - its been nothing but pleasant. Out here you are no closer to crime problems than you would be anywhere else in the city. You are actually probably further from it, being about 10 miles away from civilization and out in the county.

I'd hardly say its a "slum". Yes there are older - some would say "failed" developments from the 70s - but you'll find that anywhere in Tucson (for example - Corona and look how well properties are doing there now). Star Valley and Eagle point estates are very nice neighborhoods -- Also the area around Ajo and Kinney is just beautiful! Star Valley has a beautiful park with a dog park and walking trails. Plans are to expand it almost all the way to Casino Del Sol.

Schools anywhere is Arizona terrify me. However, with the fast development out here, new schools are not far off. A new elementary school is in plan for Star Valley. If Vail is any indication, the new schools should exceed present Arizona norm.

As far as ordering pizza and having it delivered - I haven't found one yet Hopefully we will get more conviences as it is developing rapidly.

One thing is for sure. It is beautiful and quiet. I love living out of the city with the beautiful mountain views, awesome sunsets and starry nights. Also, being out in the county, the home prices are more reasonable.