Just got word that the only 2 bases available for me to move to are in Phoenix (Luke AFB) or Tucson (Davis-Monthan AFB). I put in my request for Tucson, because I'd rather work on A-10s than F-16s, and also because our children's private school exists in Tucson and there isn't one in Phoenix. I've done a little research and found that Tucson, on average, is slightly cooler than Phoenix, which would be better for the pups.

If anyone knows anything about these locations, please pass on the info to me! We are into bikejoring and would love some flat trails on dirt roads out in the country where there are not many people/dogs/vehicle traffic/distractions/wild animals if possible. We currently bikejor in a nearby cemetery early in the morning and are the only ones (living) in there, so it's great with no distractions other than the occasional squirrel.

We aren't 100% sure we're coming to AZ, and should know officially when I receive orders next month. But when I'm only offered AZ or AZ, then it looks like we're coming to AZ. Not by choice. We were hoping for Alaska or the Dakotas or someplace colder for our sled dogs. O well. Thus is life in the military.

Our goal is to buy or rent a small house that is on as much land as possible, at least multiple acres (1-5) if not more. Basically: as much land as we can afford. If I find 100 acres that's affordable, it would be a dream! I keep seeing the manufactured homes on like 5+ acres. We'd love that much land, but I'm not sure how I feel about those type of homes. My understanding is that they're basically trailers, and I don't want to live in a trailer.

Ah, the orders game. Isn't it fun? I've got a good friend who is a C-130 pilot and just relocated to Davis-Monthan, I can try to get some intel from him.

That would be helpful. I was there for a week back in 2004 for training on A-10s before getting stationed in Osan, South Korea. But my experience and memories are limited to the base and hotel. I wasn't allowed a rental car, so I relied on a taxi and didn't do any sightseeing.

I've only ever been to Luke, but I know my friend really likes Tucson so far. How did you like Osan? My dad was stationed there in 1969-70 and said it was interesting. I'll let you know when I hear back from my friend about Davis -Monthan.

I would choose Phoenix over Tuscon anytime. No offense but Tuscon is quite small and (ghetto) sorry to put it that way. There is lots of empty trails, mountains you can take your dogs to in AZ. As for the housing goes, you will not find huge house lots with acres of space, however you can get a nice house with a decent fenced backyard i'd say for 1000-1200$ a month. Just make sure to keep the AC on at least 70 or get a nice AC dog house for your puppies

i have been to tuscon for work and just to the city, i do know there is crime in the area and to not be out much at night in the bad areas. there are some really nice homes on the hills out there! that sucks your stuck with AZ, for about how long do you think?

If I have never stayed in Tucson so I really have no idea what it is like. I live in NE Phoenix and I think you could find some homes with property if you stay on the west side, really it would depend on how much you want to drive.