LaLaJean

This is an old nieghborhood with old buildings and bussinesses but there are lots of shopping, medical offices and dining within one intersection. Most everything you need is within walking distance. Many vocational schools and puplic schools are in the area so there are many students who live in the numerous apartment complexes. The retail stores offer great part time jobs for students. The bus system runs routine stops in this area. The Valley Metro has a great website with thier schedule and fares.
This is not a great area to be at night, actually it is kind of scary. Keep your doors locked at all times.

Phoenix AZ is experiencing some severe growing pains. Although the housing market has burst they are still building new homes in the subburbs because most people with children do not want to live in the inner parts of the city. There are some area's that are undesirable and unsafe because of gang activity and crime. There are lots of retirment communities that are really nice to live in but they have many compliants about the home owner associations who are over zealos or try to enforce new rules that you did not sign up for when your purchased your home.
The new communities are wonderful; this is the best place for families with kids.They offer great shopping, medical facilities and dining/entertainment with easy access to the free ways.
Metropolitan Phoenix is actively trying to solve thier traffic woes by increasing road construction and the light rail is going to be in service this fall. It is expected to be a great alternative for commuters who work in down town Phoenix.