5.2 out of 10

Oakman Blvd

42.395013977462 -83.1254235831576
Great for
  • Cost of Living
  • Internet Access
  • Neighborly Spirit
  • Pest Free
  • Childcare
Not great for
  • Gym & Fitness
  • Nightlife
  • Childcare
  • Clean & Green
  • Eating Out
Who lives here?
  • Professionals
  • Singles
  • Families with kids
  • Retirees
  •  

Reviews

3/5 rating details
  • Neighborly Spirit 4/5
  • Safe & Sound 3/5
  • Clean & Green 3/5
  • Pest Free 4/5
  • Peace & Quiet 3/5
  • Eating Out 3/5
  • Nightlife 2/5
  • Parks & Recreation 3/5
  • Shopping Options 3/5
  • Gym & Fitness 2/5
  • Internet Access 4/5
  • Lack of Traffic 3/5
  • Parking 3/5
  • Cost of Living 3/5
  • Resale or Rental Value 3/5
  • Public Transport 3/5
  • Medical Facilities 3/5
  • Schools 3/5
  • Childcare 3/5
2yrs+

"Rich History But Not Much Else"

You may or may not realize it, but this happens to be a true historic district within the city of Detroit. The homes that were built here hold some great stories and are part of an overriding group that is striving to make this community better. The problem is that this part of the community went down with some of the events and circumstances within Detroit and has never really recovered.

You will find enough amenities nearby but they aren't necessarily plentiful. You can enjoy some things like restaurants, but there's nothing to write home about. It is located near major roads and expressways but that's one of the only true draws to the area. It's not that it's a terrible neighborhood, it's just that there's nothing particularly special about it besides the fact that it is a historic district.

While it's not desolate like other areas of town, it is definitely run down. It is in need of some help and therefore many are hoping that this will be an area that gets a bit of revitalization attention. Though there are some good points here and many striving to make it a true community, it has a ways to go before getting to that final destination.

With the potential of this area and the rich history and great story to tell, it is hopeful that things turn around in the near future. Though things don't look great, that can all change and many are hoping that it does so soon.
Pros
  • Historic District
  • Good Potential for the Area
  • Buses run regularly
  • Close to the Lodge Freeway
Cons
  • Many Parts Need to Be Fixed Up
  • Has Seen Better Days
  • High crime area
Recommended for
  • Professionals
  • Singles
2/5 rating details
  • Neighborly Spirit 2/5
  • Safe & Sound 2/5
  • Clean & Green 2/5
  • Pest Free 2/5
  • Peace & Quiet 2/5
  • Eating Out 2/5
  • Nightlife 2/5
  • Parks & Recreation 2/5
  • Shopping Options 2/5
  • Gym & Fitness 2/5
  • Internet Access 2/5
  • Lack of Traffic 2/5
  • Parking 2/5
  • Cost of Living 3/5
  • Resale or Rental Value 2/5
  • Public Transport 2/5
  • Medical Facilities 2/5
  • Schools 2/5
  • Childcare 2/5
2yrs+

"The Shrine of the Black Madonna, but not much else"

I was first introduced to this area when I was around 19 and a friend took me to this area to visit the Shrine of the Black Madonna bookstore. I was blown away by the rich culture and information this store held, and more stunned by the shocking diversity of the customers. People of all races went there to buy literature and other memorabilia. We started coming here every week, and I still visit the store.

Honestly, other than the bookstore, I wouldn't hang out in this area. I wouldn't live there either. There is too much crime and too many shady folks wandering about over on Livernois and Davidson. It's noisy at the intersection, and there seems to be a latent hostility among the people on the streets. I recall many times feeling uneasy being there. I used to park across the street from the Shrine, in a liquor store parking lot. I used to wonder if my car would still be there when I came out of the store.

But Livernois and Davidson is a major Detroit intersection, so yes the buses run regularly. Lots of liquor stores and fast food restaurants around here, which can't be great for the resident's health. The Lodge is close by as well, so that is a plus for travel, and a minus for noise and traffic. Other than the bookstore, steer clear.
Pros
  • The Shrine of the Black Madonna Book Store
  • Close to the Lodge Freeway
  • Buses run regularly
Cons
  • High crime area
  • Too many liquor stores and fast food restaurants
Recommended for
  • Singles
  • Families with kids
  • Retirees

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