Metro Detroit as a 30ish single? (Lansing, Ann Arbor: apartments, renting, loft)

[HockeyFan]

I know the job market could be better. I know winter can be grey. But... what would life be like for a 30ish single male in the Detroit area?

Although I currently live in California, I've only been here a few years -- I've lived several places, and most of them have weather that would be considered as harsh, or harsher, than Detroit.

I'm a sports fan, particularly hockey, and there's no question Detroit does well in that department. I'm not into clubs or anything trendy, but I enjoy hanging out in a bar/grill or a sports bar and watching a game or two. I definitely prefer casual places to formal places in almost all settings. Winter does not intimidate me.

There's a good chance I'd be self-employed, so the job market is not as significant for me as for many people.

Allergies are a serious issue for me, especially to grasses and weeds. The big lots worry me a bit.. are there any areas where lots are a little smaller, and therefore, with less pollen?


The one thing I think I'd miss.. and I miss it now in SoCal to an extent... a vibrant, urban-style downtown. Are there any smaller, walkable areas within the Detroit metro area, aside from Ann Arbor?

Also... where do 20s and 30s singles tend to live? The downtown is coming back from all I've seen, but it seems most still live elsewhere. What areas would be best to look at?

Thanks!

[ericka709]

Royal Oak and Birmingham are centrally located and definitely great cities for people who like to walk and are looking for a city with a certain vibe.

Birmingham is more trendy and upscale therefore the purchase prices/rents will be higher and the people will be a bit snobbier.

Detroit is coming back also - from what you described - sounds like Hockeytown would be your home away from home so Downtown might be a great option for you.

The upside to Detroit is that if you can position yourself so that your income/job status will not be affected by the economy - then you'll do just fine in Detroit.

Last, re: dating in the Motor City, I don't think you'll have to worry about that. You're single, 30, casual/laid back, and self employed. Heck, I'd date 'ya myself if I wasn't already involved with someone.

Originally Posted by HockeyFan

I know the job market could be better. I know winter can be grey. But... what would life be like for a 30ish single male in the Detroit area?

Although I currently live in California, I've only been here a few years -- I've lived several places, and most of them have weather that would be considered as harsh, or harsher, than Detroit.

I'm a sports fan, particularly hockey, and there's no question Detroit does well in that department. I'm not into clubs or anything trendy, but I enjoy hanging out in a bar/grill or a sports bar and watching a game or two. I definitely prefer casual places to formal places in almost all settings. Winter does not intimidate me.

There's a good chance I'd be self-employed, so the job market is not as significant for me as for many people.

Allergies are a serious issue for me, especially to grasses and weeds. The big lots worry me a bit.. are there any areas where lots are a little smaller, and therefore, with less pollen?


The one thing I think I'd miss.. and I miss it now in SoCal to an extent... a vibrant, urban-style downtown. Are there any smaller, walkable areas within the Detroit metro area, aside from Ann Arbor?

Also... where do 20s and 30s singles tend to live? The downtown is coming back from all I've seen, but it seems most still live elsewhere. What areas would be best to look at?

Thanks!

[M TYPE X]

Ann Arbor is much 'more' in terms of walkability than Birmingham or Royal Oak. There really aren't many such places in the Cleveland area. Chicago has downtown and Evanston.

[MiamiU08]

Originally Posted by M TYPE X

Ann Arbor is much 'more' in terms of walkability than Birmingham or Royal Oak. There really aren't many such places in the Cleveland area. Chicago has downtown and Evanston.

To M TYPE X: Cleveland does have a few very nice areas similar to Royal Oak and Birmingham, such as Lakewood and Coventry. Both of these areas are self-contained and very pedestrian-friendly, with many attractions, hang-outs, and restaurants in walking distance, and downtown a short drive away.

To the OP: It sounds like Royal Oak would be your best bet (based on the information you provided). I lived in Auburn Hills this summer, which was a great city, but not the right night life for a twenty-something. My friends and I frequented Birmingham and Royal Oak, but preferred the latter. Royal Oak has a few "trendier" places and dance clubs, but the majority of bars and hang-outs in the area are laid-back and relaxed. Plenty of places to just watch the game or grab a bite to eat. Also, if you are interested in renting there are some affordable loft apartments right on or near the main strip. Royal Oak is a great place for young people to be, and there is always something to do (check out Mark Ridley's Comedy Castle - the comedy club where Tim Allen got his start!!).

Let us know where you end up and what kind of luck you are having with the search. Try craigslist to get an idea of what the rents and spaces are like.

[Coldjensens]

Ann Arbor has got to be your best bet. Ann Arbor is the liveliest city in the area. It is a truly fantastic city. It is pretty expensive. Royal Oak is probably second. Downtown Detroit may be worth considering too.

[HockeyFan]

Royal Oak is one area I've never made it to, but it sounds pretty good from everything I've heard. It also seems to be growing in popularity.

Thanks again everyone!

[MiamiU08]

Originally Posted by Coldjensens

Ann Arbor has got to be your best bet. Ann Arbor is the liveliest city in the area. It is a truly fantastic city. It is pretty expensive. Royal Oak is probably second. Downtown Detroit may be worth considering too.

I would caution the OP that many of the places you would hang out will be occupied by UofM students 9 months of the year (especially hockey season!). Maybe that's your scene, and maybe it isn't, but something to consider when making your decision. I find that many people do not enjoy living in a town with such a large college presence if they are not connected to the college.

[Coldjensens]

Some places are college hang outs and get filled with college students. Other places not so much.

Downtown Ann Arbor is not much frequented by the college crowd. Some students, but mostly grad students, a lot of business persons and or people from out of town. The students tend to stay more down by the university area. You can choose what atmosphere you want.

[HockeyFan]

I don't mind college students around -- I find they bring an energy to the area. I don't mind a little noise around, so college towns are alright with me. I stayed on the outskirts of Ann Arbor once, it seemed like a very comfortable place to be.

[MiamiU08]

Originally Posted by HockeyFan

I don't mind college students around -- I find they bring an energy to the area. I don't mind a little noise around, so college towns are alright with me. I stayed on the outskirts of Ann Arbor once, it seemed like a very comfortable place to be.

Ann Arbor will probably offer everything you would need in a city. It is very self-contained, and very rich with culture and entertainment. I you do need something else, however, it is less than an hour from many other locations, such as Detroit, Toledo, Troy, East Lansing... Certainly a good consideration!!