I have lived in Sutton for 18 years. Like all towns it has it's good & bad points but the good outweigh the bad. It has been a great place to raise my son, excellent schools (he is now doing A' Levels) lots of green open spaces. Brilliant rail links to London (I work in central London) close to the M25 & Gatwick airport.
I live in south Sutton, & recommend South & West Sutton, Carshalton village, Carshalton Beeches & Cheam. Avoid north Sutton.
Sutton town centre has all basic shops but if i need a splurge i go to London or Kingston.
Just note...friends still living in inner London are considering moving here