[chopper]

A minor dissenting opinion from the NE region around Phoenix, namely Mesa. I live about as far out as you can get and still be in Mesa, almost to the county line and just west of Apache Junction. State park just north of me, shooting range two miles down the road, view of the Superstition Mountains out the front door. I would point out that they are presently working on the 202 freeway which goes around the north side of the east valley and, if we can ever believe the politicians, should be finished through Power Road (three miles west of my house) by the end of the year. This will give a relatively straight shot into the 101 and downtown Phoenix area. It’ll be about 20 miles but all divided freeway. Housing costs are more reasonable here than in areas closer to Phoenix if that’s a concern. If you’d like any info, drop me an e-mail. Good luck during the transfer & move.