Nestled just a few blocks west of downtown Ann Arbor, the Old West Side (OWS) is one of the city’s most beloved neighborhoods. With its tree-lined streets, historic homes, and active community associations, Old West Side offers a distinct blend of small-town friendliness and urban convenience. Whether you're considering a move or just curious about what life is like in this storied part of town, here’s an authentic, neighborly look at what makes the Old West Side such a special place to call home.
Community Vibe
The Old West Side is known for its warm, welcoming community spirit. Living here means always seeing familiar faces on your evening strolls and knowing your neighbors by name. Many residents have lived in the area for decades, creating a tight-knit, intergenerational feel. The Old West Side Association (OWSA) plays an active role in fostering this sense of community—organizing neighborhood events, block parties, and monthly meetings. Halloween, in particular, is legendary, with neighbors pulling out all the stops for decorations and trick-or-treaters on streets like 5th, 7th, and Crest. It’s the sort of place where people still look out for one another, lending tools or helping shovel a snowy sidewalk.
Types of Housing
One of the biggest draws of the Old West Side is its variety of historic homes. While the neighborhood features a rich collection of Victorian, Craftsman, and Dutch Colonial homes—many dating back to the late 1800s and early 1900s—you’ll also find Arts & Crafts bungalows, cozy cottages, and the occasional brick duplex or townhouse.
- Most houses sit on modest-sized lots, adding to the close-knit vibe.
- Architectural details like stained glass windows, welcoming front porches, and intricate woodwork are common.
- Home sizes range from small, two-bedroom gems to spacious, four-bedroom classics.
- There are a few multi-family buildings, though single-family homes dominate.
While houses may require some TLC due to their age, residents love the character and craftsmanship that’s hard to find in newer builds.
Walkability and Getting Around
If you’re hoping to ditch the car, Old West Side is a fantastic place for walkers and cyclists. The neighborhood is compact, with most streets laid out in a convenient grid pattern. Main thoroughfares like Liberty, Madison, and Miller make it easy to navigate.
- Downtown Ann Arbor is only a 10-15 minute walk or a quick bike ride away.
- You can stroll down to Washtenaw Dairy on Madison for ice cream, or grab coffee at Argus Farm Stop on Liberty.
- Multiple AATA bus routes run along adjacent streets, offering public transit connections.
- For drivers, most homes have shared alleys or small garages, and street parking is usually available.
Schools and Family-Friendliness
The Old West Side is a popular choice for families thanks to well-regarded schools and family-friendly amenities:
- Bach Elementary, right on Jefferson Street, receives high marks from parents and fosters a welcoming, diverse environment.
- Slauson Middle School and Ann Arbor Pioneer High School, both nearby, are reputable and easily accessible by foot or bike.
- The district supports strong academics alongside arts and extracurriculars, making it easier for families to settle in for the long haul.
- Trick-or-treating, yard games, and informal block parties are neighborhood staples, and sidewalks throughout the OWS make exploring safe for kids.
Parks and Green Spaces
One of the most cherished features of the Old West Side is its access to parks and green space. Residents are never far from a spot to unwind outdoors.
- Wurster Park, at Madison and Seventh, is a favorite gathering spot—featuring a new playground, shaded picnic tables, and plenty of lawn for frisbee or kite-flying.
- Nearby, the YMCA on Washington offers fitness programs and camps, and Allmendinger Park (while just across the neighborhood’s edge) is home to sports fields, tennis courts, and summer concerts.
- Mature trees—maples, oaks, elms—line nearly every block, making for beautiful fall color and spring blooms.
Safety and Peace of Mind
The Old West Side is widely considered one of Ann Arbor’s safer neighborhoods. Its engaged residents, regular foot traffic, and active neighborhood watch help deter crime.
- Streets are well-lit and sidewalks are maintained.
- Front porch sitting and evening walks are everyday occurrences, and many neighbors proactively check in on each other.
- Local police are responsive, with community meetings sometimes hosted at churches or the community center.
Proximity to Downtown and Major Employers
One of Old West Side’s biggest perks is its unbeatable location. Whether you work at the University of Michigan, downtown tech offices, or in the medical field, your commute will be short and sweet.
- Downtown attractions—Main Street restaurants, the Farmers Market, Kerrytown shops—are only a few blocks east.
- Major employers like the University of Michigan (main campus and University Hospital) are within biking or walking distance.
- The area's proximity to the U-M stadium also means you can walk to football games (and avoid parking headaches) on game days.
What Residents Love Most
Talk to anyone who lives in the Old West Side, and certain themes always come up:
- The beauty of the historic homes and mature landscaping.
- The positive, neighborly energy—where front porch chats are a way of life.
- Easy access to almost everything—parks, schools, shops, and the pulse of downtown.
- The rhythm of the seasons: snow-dusted craftsman bungalows in winter, lilacs blooming along Third Street in spring, Fourth of July picnics in summertime, and streets blazing with red maples each fall.
- A sense of continuity and stewardship—neighbors taking pride in preserving the area’s history while welcoming newcomers.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a neighborhood that blends the past and present with a true sense of connection, Old West Side is a place where you can put down lasting roots. Whether you’re single, raising a family, or seeking a vibrant community in the heart of Ann Arbor, life here offers all the everyday perks of a walkable, welcoming, and enduringly charming neighborhood. Grab a coffee, take a stroll down Seventh, and see for yourself—it won’t take long to feel right at home.