Even those who live in Michigan have heard of Berkley, but are not always sure where it is located. Berkley, MI truly is a hidden gem and is a treasure for those who choose to look for it. Located not far off the main roads, but kept quiet by those who reside here, Berkley is an interesting community with a wonderful educational system, go-getter entrepreneurs, and residents that range from seniors who have always lived here to up and coming professionals destined to make their mark.
Nestled at the juncture of Royal Oak, Southfield, Beverly Hills, and Huntington Woods, Berkley has a way of sparkling all on its own. Part of the Woodward Ave. corridor, Berkley is typically ranked as one of the best places to live. It is in Oakland County and covers a small, 2.62 square mile area. This does not make Berkley a small town. The approximately 7,000 homes in Berkley range from condominiums, townhouses and apartments to single family homes that are perfect for those beginning their career, or sliding into retirement. Working families enjoy the short, easy commutes from Berkley and retired people enjoy the convenience of being close to everything they need.
Most of the homes in Berkley remain occupied by the approximately 15,000 people who call this community home. Almost half of those homes have children under the age of 18. Approximately 2,000 residents are of retirement age, as of the year 2010. The diverse range of community members makes for a wonderful mix of the older generation's wisdom and the youthful generation's energy. The community of Berkley embraces both as it strives to provide cozy neighborhoods and an active downtown. The city of Berkley describes its downtown as a safe place to walk, shop and live. It is a clean city with bricked crosswalks, trees, benches and banners. The city takes pride in presenting itself and the community responds by patronizing local shops. Many small business owners have built thriving businesses in Berkley.
Berkley embraces a variety of cultures, styles and fashions. Regardless of what your personal style is, you are welcome in Berkley. The restaurants here are designed to fit the needs of the diverse community as well. Vegetarians will delight in the delicious meals offered by a local restaurant. Others will find pleasure in the homemade pizzas, burgers and salads that local diners prepare. If you are looking for a city that will awaken your passion, Berkley is it. Many community members enjoy outdoor activities from bike riding and walking to golfing and watching the Woodward Dream Cruise. This yearly event is marked on everyone's calendar as a day to remember. Old and new cars cruise up and down Woodward in an almost parade-like fashion. Berkley residents flock to the streets to watch and participated in the festivities. Woodward itself has a notable history. It is the first street to have a three-colored traffic signal and one mile of a concrete road.
The National Shrine of the Little Flower Catholic Church, although in Royal Oak, is a signal to many as to where Berkley begins. At 12-Mile and Woodward, this shrine can be seen for miles before you get to it. Make a turn on 12-Mile and you enter Berkley. Perfect for new drives to help them remember where they are and also for newcomers to the area. This shrine is worth a look.
Movoto ranks Berkley as one of the 10 best Detroit suburbs for young professionals. Berkley has also been ranked as one of the 10 happiest and 10 safest cities to live in Michigan. It truly is a hidden gem that not many are bold enough to try. If you decide to call Berkley your home, you will be surrounded by some of the happiest, nicest and most driven individuals living in Michigan. These qualities cannot help but rub off on you and help you to reach your personal and professional goals.
Since Berkley is home to those who are successful and happy, you can expect a high quality of life here in this Southeast Michigan city. You will not want for much as you are close to the larger cities of Royal Oak and Birmingham if you cannot find what you need in Berkley. Be prepared to spend time downtown enjoying a meal, catching up with a friend at a pub or shopping at one of the local stores. You will also find indoor fitness centers to meet your exercise needs when you are unable to get outside. This professionally-driven town is also very health conscious as shown by the active community members, health clubs, healthy foods and alternative medicine providers such as chiropractors. Your village of health care professionals will help you make the most out of your life and live it happy and safe.
Of the four elementary schools within the Berkley School District, two are ranked at 90 percent or higher. Berkley also offers an international school for those who wish to attend for grades kindergarten through eighth grade. With one middle school and one high school, this close-knit city does not have to worry about school rivals or confrontations. The students spend many years together and make friendships that last a lifetime in this happy city. These same students typically go on to attend college and continue on with their professional career.
Commute
If you call Berkley your home, you will find an easy commute to Detroit. After a quick drive down 12 Mile to Woodward, you are connected to Interstate 696. Within minutes you'll be on I-75 or I-96 and can use one of three routes to reach Detroit, Lansing, or Ann Arbor.
