Old Everett - Lansing, MI

While Lansing traces its roots back to the mid-1800s, Everett grew as an independent community with its first school opening in 1923. The area became known for the Everett School District and was annexed by Lansing in 1948 as the metropolitan area stretched further south. Despite its suburban location, Old Everett maintains its unique identity and sense of community with an active neighborhood association.

Enjoy easy access to nearby cultural attraction like the History Society of Michigan, or let your kids pursue music and performing arts at the arts-centered Everett High School. Head into central Lansing for annual events like Silver Bells in the City, or stay right in the neighborhood for tailgating events held outside the high-school football stadium.

Explore the retail cluster near the corner of Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard and Holmes Road and along Cedar Street to discover Old Everett's laid-back dining scene with some neighborhood flair. The local restaurant owners know that cheap eats and great-tasting ingredients trump trendy decor and fancy presentation any day, so expect plenty of home-town diners and cafes serving up plates of BBQ and fries.

Whether you come for lunch or dinner, you always find something to love at El Oasis. This food truck features tempting Tex-Mex favorites such as tortas and tostadas, and locals say it has the best tacos in Lansing. Pull up a stool and munch on nachos, or take your food to go.

Old Everett lies just minutes from the exciting nightlife scene in downtown Lansing, but you can also enjoy some neighborhood dive bars for a quick drink after work. Head to Colonial Bar & Grille to take advantage of its friendly vibes. Sip on a specialty cocktail, like the Johnny Vegas, while enjoying daily pub specials such as cheap hot dogs and beer-battered cod.

Residents enjoy easy access to downtown Lansing via Cedar Avenue, and Interstates 96 and 496 lie just a short drive away for longer commutes. While running errands, take advantage of free street parking throughout the neighborhood. If you need a quick ride to the university, you can always call or hail an L-Town Cab or use a ride-share service like Uber.

Hop on a Capital Area Transit bus from one of the frequent stops along Old Everett's major roads for a quick commute to downtown. The neighborhood doesn't have any bike lanes, and the harsh weather during the winter leads most residents to commute by car or bus. During the warmer months, the area remains somewhat walkable with plenty of amenities within easy walking distance of the residential streets.

Breathe in Old Everett's fresh air during your day off at one of the neighborhood's expansive public parks that offer natural beauty and recreational opportunities in every season. Head to Poxson Park to rest and watch your kids climb on the playground, or take a stroll by the grassy creek hidden under the shade trees at almost any time of day. The public parks are free for all patrons.

Find another fun playground at Cavanaugh Park, or play a game on the basketball court or softball field. Here you find plenty of open green space where you can take your dog for a morning run.

Residents enjoy a below-average cost of living for the city of Lansing with affordable shopping, entertainment and housing. Although most residents own their homes, you still find a few apartment complexes with an average rent of $544 per month for a one-bedroom apartment. Gas prices generally hold steady at 12 percent below the national average, and a bus ride into central Lansing costs you around $1.25. Expect to pay around $3 to $4 for a glass of beer at the local pubs.

Drive along Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard to find shoe stores, fashion retailers and basic amenities, and explore Cedar Street for an excellent selection of game shops, thrift stores and auto retailers. No high-end boutiques call this neighborhood home, but it stands out as a bargain-hunter's paradise.

Do some treasure hunting at Valueland - World Mission to find racks of gently used clothing, vintage vinyl records and shelves stuffed with old books. Pick up some wall art for your new apartment, or browse the ever-changing home and furniture section. Stop by on the last Tuesday of the month for some huge discounts.

Check out Foxhole PX Store to find U.S. Navy and Army surplus alongside camping equipment and survivalist gear. Pick up a high-quality blade, a new sleeping bag or a field manual at great prices. Also stop by to pick up uniforms and insignia for your collection or ceremonial needs.

Stop by Kroger to pick up all your basic groceries for the week before heading to Dong An Market for noodles, spices, and other imported Asian food items. For some organic fruits and veggies, don't forget to stop by the Lansing City Market in the downtown area.