Thinking about moving to Arcadia/East Camelback? What about AZ CC vs. PHX CC? (Phoenix: to rent)

[drcpa]

So we're both in our 20's and currently live in Tempe by the lake. My girlfriend is a Phd student and I'm a consultant (also work in tempe). Combined income now is approximately $175K but when she graduates it will be more in the $250k range, hopefully higher but I'll assume I'll never get a raise.

I think the market has a bit more room to fall, so we'll probably rent next year as well, but want to rent in an area that we think we'll end up buying in. What are the biggest differences between the following areas:

1) Above Indian School but below Camelback in the 40's and 50's.
2) Same as above but the 20's and 30's.
3) The houses surrounding Phoenix CC.

We're also thinking about joining either Arizona CC or Phoenix CC. Does anyone have any thoughts on the two clubs? I know there are plenty of public courses that are much better, but we're interested in the other aspects of a club (gym, pool, tennis, social events, networking, etc.).

I'd also be interested to hear if there are other neighborhoods or country clubs that we should be considering. Probably looking to spend $450 to $650K.