Ann Arbor’s Northside Elementary Neighborhood stands out as one of Ann Arbor’s best-kept secrets. Experience the perfect blend of urban amenities and natural beauty, offering a distinctive and eclectic atmosphere. Discover why the Northside Elementary Neighborhood might be the ideal choice for your home in Ann Arbor.
1. Location
The Northside Elementary neighborhood in Ann Arbor provides the best of both worlds: proximity to downtown, UM North Campus, and the Medical Campus, all while being within walking distance to the scenic Huron River and the Border to Border Trail. Nestled between the river and Barton Road along Pontiac Trail, the Northside Ann Arbor neighborhood is conveniently walkable to campus and offers easy highway access via Barton Road. Consider embracing a one-car household lifestyle to save on car payments and contribute to a healthier environment. With numerous bike paths and lanes, Northside is exceptionally bike-friendly, boasting a high score of 88 for bike-ability on Walkscore.com — one of the highest ratings achievable.
2. Eclectic Feel
The Northside Neighborhood was built over time and offers many different types of homes. From older single-family residences and renovated historic homes dating back to the 1800s to luxurious new construction and student-housing properties, there is a rich variety of building types and landscaping. Notably, the Northside is home to some of the city’s oldest residences, with historic homes that have been relocated from other parts of Ann Arbor and carefully preserved. Delving into its historical roots, two homes on Pontiac Trail have a significant past—they once belonged to the abolitionist brothers Guy and Josiah Beckley, who played a crucial role as a stop on the Underground Railroad.
3. Nature and Parks
The Northside Neighborhood offers abundant views and recreational opportunities. Nearby Olson Park offers wetlands, creeks, ponds, woods, and various recreational areas, including a basketball court and a fenced-in dog park. Island Park provides a serene open space along the Huron River, featuring trees, shrubs, a play area, picnic tables, benches, a restroom facility, and scenic paths. Argo Park, situated on the Huron River, offers a walking/jogging path, a canoe livery for kayak and canoe rentals, and tubing options during the summer. Bandemer Park features frisbee golf and a BMX track. Lastly, Leslie Golf Course has earned numerous accolades, including the title of “The best municipal golf course in the State of Michigan!” by Golf Digest. Beyond the parks, the neighborhood boasts wooded areas, mature landscapes, and captivating views of the Huron River.
4. Affordability
Prices in the Northside Neighborhood tend to run lower than other sought-after neighborhoods such as Old West, Burns Park, and Eberwhite. This makes Northside an attractive option for first-time homebuyers. The neighborhood features a variety of housing styles, including ranch, bungalow, and cape-cod, with homes ranging from 800 to 1200 square feet.
5. Great Schools and Activities for Kids
According to Public School Review, Ann Arbor Steam At Northside placed in the top 5% of all schools in Michigan for overall test scores during the 2018-19 school year. For middle and high school, students typically progress to Clague and Skyline, both highly-rated institutions. Ann Arbor STEAM at Northside, emphasizing Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics (STEAM), provides an environment where students actively engage, communicate, collaborate, create, and think critically. The school offers a project-based, student-centered approach with excellent resources in the vicinity.
Enjoy outdoor activities for children with nearby parks and recreational options, including practice fields for local youth sports teams and the Leslie Science Center, featuring trails, wildlife, and regular programming.
Is the Northside Elementary Neighborhood the best in Ann Arbor? While undoubtedly a gem, the ideal neighborhood depends on your specific needs! Complete the contact form below, and we can assist you in finding the perfect home in Ann Arbor.
Contact Us