Southeast Warren - Warren, MI

The city of Warren was originally settled in 1830 and became a popular carriage stop between Utica and Detroit. Early settlers quickly erected a mill, tavern and trading post to accommodate travelers. While growth was relatively slow over the years, the end of WWII and the Baby Boom lead to a spike in residents moving out of the city and into Warren.

The city houses many major businesses including: the Cadillac Motor Car Division, Tank Automotive Research and Big Boy headquarters, which all provide plenty of employment opportunities for locals.

The Warren Historical and Genealogical Society meets every month to celebrate the town's history and preserve local landmarks. Locals can learn even more about the area by visiting the Detroit Institute of Art, the Arab American National Museum and the Motown Museum, which all sit within short driving distance. The annual Art in the Park Festival also attracts tourists.

For a variety of dining options, residents can head to nearby 9 Mile Road. Fast food restaurants, Coney Islands and national regions chains, such as Big Boy, all have locations along this main drag, making it convenient to stop for dinner on the way home from work.

While most people may associate deep-dish pizza with Chicago, Warren also enjoys a reputation as home of some of the best pizza in the nation. To try a slice, head to the Original Buscemi's location. This family owned-and-operated business was founded in 1955. Chefs spent years perfecting the pizza recipe, making sure that everything from the dough to the pepperoni complemented one another. Buscemi's has locations all over the Detroit area and has earned the distinction of being a local favorite. Call ahead to order a classic pepperoni deep-dish pie, and enjoy a slice piled high with cheese, and a crust that is thick and soft with just the right amount of crunch on the outside.

For a wider range of Italian dishes, head to Firenze restaurant off of 10 Mile Road, which represents another neighborhood institution that has been serving locals since 1964. The large menu features classics like fettuccine Alfredo, lasagna, and veal Parmesan. For a real treat, stop in on Saturday for the prime rib special, and enjoy a slice of tender, marbled meat and plenty of sides.

Locals head to the Ritz Bar and Grill to grab a drink and socialize. Despite the fancy name, this bar features a laid back atmosphere. Big screens over the bar air all the big games, and customers can pull up a stool and try their luck at Keno. Pool tables also provide entertainment and allow for some friendly competition.

Those looking for more entertainment options can head to Detroit and take advantage of all the city can provide. From casinos and the Detroit Institute of Art to music venues, such as the Hard Rock Cafe and Fox Theater, the city features plenty of options. Sports fans can even catch a professional hockey, baseball or football game.

Residents of Southeast Warren have an easy time traveling the neighborhood and reaching nearby cities. In addition to major roads, such as 9 Mile and the Groesbesk Highway, residents can also quickly hop on Interstates 75, 94 and 696. Residential areas feature plenty of on-street parking, and businesses all have spacious lots to accommodate drivers.

Hailing a cab on one of the major streets can be relatively easy, and Uber provides another affordable alternative to finding a ride. The SMART bus system also has regular routes that run to the neighborhood throughout the day, allowing residents to travel to Detroit, Royal Oak and St. Clair Shores for just over a dollar.

While the neighborhood doesn't have any dedicated lanes for bikers, residents generally consider the roads safe and bike-friendly. Pedestrians can also use sidewalks to walk from their homes to nearby businesses.

Winters Park in Southeast Warren Features a walking trail, playground picnic shelter and many other amenities. Residents can bring their dog and play a game, fetch in the open spaces or bring a partner for some tennis. Nearby Underwood Park features even more acreage, miles of pedestrian walking and a giant jungle gym for kids. Picnic tables also sit throughout the park, providing the perfect spot to enjoy lunch outdoors.

Every winter, the parks install temporary ice rinks for skating and hold the Cold Rush Ice Carving Festival.

The cost of living in Southeast Warren runs below that of nearby towns. Renting a one-bedroom apartment costs an average of $625 per month, and drivers pay up to 20 percent below the national average for a gallon of gas. A one-way ride on the bus system costs $1.25, but passengers can save by purchasing a monthly pass. Head out on the town to grab a drink, and pay $3 for a bottle of domestic beer.

Shoppers can visit their favorite national retail chains at both the Lakeside Mall and the Oakland mall, which sit within an easy driving distance of Southeast Warren. These shopping centers feature all the typical stores visitors have come to expect, including American Eagle, Macy's, Gap and much more.

Warren also houses several unique specialty stores that cater to a niche market. At Prop Shop Hobbies, customers can stock up on collectible die cast cars, remote-controlled airplanes, kites, rockets, and all the tools and parts they need for projects. Both kids and grown-ups visit to get inspiration and expert advice from friendly employees.

Bargain hunters who like to turn furniture shopping into an adventure head to Fred's Unique Furniture and Antiques. As a 60,000-square-foot liquidation warehouse, the store houses a diverse, ever-changing stock of high-quality used furniture at affordable prices. You might have to hunt through crowded aisles to spot the perfect Broyhill bedroom set or elegant French Provincial headboard, but every incredible find is well worth the search.

Residents visit the local Kroger grocery store to fill their pantries with everyday essentials. The neighborhood also hosts two farmer's markets. The City Square Market opens on Sundays through October, and the Owen Jax location serves customers on Thursdays.