📌Hey everyone, it’s Vaughn! If you want my FREE RELOCATION GUIDE with information on all things about GRAND RAPIDS, WEST MICHIGAN, you can download it here: contact.buyorsellrealestatenow.com/west-michigan-relocation-guide
You didn't mention that Kalamazoo, MI is equidistant from Chicago, IL and Detroit, MI. It is approximately 140 miles to either city from Kalamazoo, MI.
While you discussed potholes, your camera caught a glimpse of a sign referring to the Kalamazoo Promise. For any parent(s) with kids in K - 12, the Kalamazoo Promise can play a vital role in young people being able to afford college.
I was raised in Kalamazoo and moved to Lansing in 81 where the rest of biological family is but I miss it. I lived in my own place 2 blocks from wmu .right on stadium dr
I was born and raised in Kalamazoo. I agree with you about the temperatures, but even worse is how many days out of the year it's OVERCAST. I never realized how overcast Kalamazoo is until I moved away. I went to school in Ann Arbor -- which of course also has equally cold temps -- but is much sunnier.
I live in Kalamazoo and LOVE it!!! I love my neighborhood and just love living in MI period!!! We have SO much to do and see all around this state. Kalamazoo has a lot to offer for anyone, singe or married. I live in MIlwood, one of the oldest neighborhoods in Kalamazoo and houses ARE affordable and have lots of character.
I grew up in the Westnedge Hill area; attended Parkwood Elementary and South Junior. High before our family moved away. You are right -- houses all over Kalamazoo are varied and have a lot of character.
I live in Battle Creek, and I love Kalmazoo so much better. The shopping and restaurants are the best, and they have many things that Battle Creek dont. There is a lot more to do than in Battle Creek.
It sounds like you've found Kalamazoo to be a great fit for you compared to Battle Creek! Kalamazoo does indeed offer a vibrant shopping and dining scene, along with a variety of entertainment options and cultural attractions. It's great that you're able to enjoy all the amenities and activities that Kalamazoo has to offer. Each city has its own unique charm, but it's wonderful when you find a place that feels like home and meets your preferences for lifestyle and activities.
I've lived here since I was born in 1967. Alot of changes. Such as, don't go past Palmer. Stay off Westnedge if you can, Oakland Drive is getting that way too. Avoid S. Burdick and N Burdick. Portage is like overly expensive to live in with the traffic. Shootings are up and it's just a bucket of suck. There's no historical significance like Charleston SC. And it's freaking cold, miserable here during winter, just like the people. I hate it here, but I'm to young to retire and move just yet. That's my opinion. I should have been gone a long time ago, but I had a child to raise, family still here too.
Born and raised. For a person looking for a unique experience the Stuart, West Main Hill and south Vine neighborhoods are good for renting. There are a few good areas for buying homes still in Kzoo proper, but for the un-initiated I would look at houses around the surrounding area of Portage, Oshtemo, Texas Corners and Alamo. There's a lot of property crime in the areas close to downtown (less so but worth it in the rental areas I've mentioned). Stay away from the North side and South side (Edison) neighborhoods for sure.
It's important to recognize that Kalamazoo, like many other communities, played a significant role in the Underground Railroad, a network of secret routes and safe houses used by enslaved African Americans to escape to freedom. The efforts of abolitionists, community members, and activists in Kalamazoo and beyond contributed to the fight for equality and justice. These stories of resistance and solidarity are integral parts of Kalamazoo's history and serve as reminders of the ongoing struggle for equality and human rights.
Excellent review overall. Being a college town is a major plus not a negative. I look for that especially whenever I move and I've lived all over the country. College towns have a lot more to do in terms of sports, cultural activities and obviously learning opportunities. The easy access to Chicago, Grand Rapid, Indiana, Ann Arbor, etc. is also a tremendous advantage in terms of Kalamazoo's location. In particular I really enjoyed being able to take Amtrak into Chicago on those occasions when I didn't feel like driving like in the dead of winter.
My son and his family have a pending contract on house just west of Portage. Really happy for them. Enjoyed your video. It was very informative and very well done! Take care.
Absolutely! Depending on one's specific criteria. The real estate market just like any other market is constantly experiencing fluctuations even on a DAILY basis :) Thank you for your feedback
Wow you never mentioned that Kalamazoo's downtown has heated streets and heated sidewalks. No need to plow or salt. Kalamazoo is innovative, thriving and diverse too. Disney is even making a movie in Kalamazoo and Kalamazoo rated the most Coolest City in America! No mention of the Kalamazoo Promise?
@@LisaLisa0624 ..your kid attends kzoo public schools and graduates tuition and fees to any state college are covered..amount covered is prorated to grades completed ..for example k thru 12..full ride
I wouldn't and I effing live here. Screw this place. When I turn 62, I'm gone, far from here. Should have joined the military at 18. But shit happens.😃
Like any city, Kalamazoo has its challenges, and crime can be a concern in certain areas. However, it's worth noting that many cities experience fluctuations in crime rates over time, and efforts are often made by local authorities and community organizations to address these issues and improve safety.
It's ok but the crime has gotten really bad...there's are so many homeless people these days. I've been attempted robbed 5 times in the last 3 years...
I'm a kazoo resident and there is no joke on the nature activities. kazoo nature center kal-haven bike trail river valley trail preserves like. bow in the clouds, al sabo, asylum lake. you have the fort Custer rec area which has bicycle, horse, and hiking trails with a great beach and a fancy camp ground
He is giving a great Excellent Tour. Very authentic. Sorry about the cold. It is cold in January and February. We like it. Ice fishing, sledding, skating, Echo Valley, Skiing at Timber Ridge, Swiss Valley and Bittersweet.
Me and my fiance went downtown to explore the north kalamazoo mall and man there was some bad vibes. We never got out, drove back home. We noticed the suburbs on what seemed like all sides of downtown are run down neighborhoods which we could tell the people from those areas would be wondering around downtown. People I wouldn't feel comfortable approaching on a sidewalk. We drove 1hr and 30mins to kalamazoo. I would recommend exploring somewhere else.
I lived there for 19 years... U forgot about how horrible Winter and summer is there. It's not as great as they play. Summer is the worst... Winter, u have no chance if driving.. if it's more than 3 ft of snow u ain't going nowhere . The best part during cold is downtown... They decorate well, and make for good pics. Kazoo is the worst
I totally disagree about our weather! Winters here are NOT that bad and my city, Kalamazoo, does a great job of keeping our streets cleared and the same goes for Portage. Our summers are also pretty great. Winters are doable and living between the lakes means our weather is always changing. If this poster hates Kalamazoo...it's because she doesn't realize how nice it really is and maybe she should move to Florida and swelter to death year around!
Living in Kalamazoo for 19 years must have given you some unique insights! It sounds like you had some tough experiences with the extreme weather there. Summers and winters can be challenging, with intense heat and difficult driving conditions, especially during heavy snowfalls. But it's good to hear that downtown Kalamazoo shines, especially with its festive decorations during the cold months. Every place has its pros and cons, and it sounds like you've seen both sides of Kalamazoo during your time there.
We go to Firekeepers Casino and Four Winds Casino. Each 37 minutes away. Lots of lakes. 1 hour from Lake Michigan. Lots of Communities surrounding Kalamazoo. High amount of activity available. Festivals each weekend in Spring and Summer. Music each night.
Stay away from Northside hood !! Kzoo has gotten better last 15 years tho I live in area go to the zoo everyday weed stores ,bars,brewery's ,art area ,...nice video check out Marcellus to the south little town but it's home lol ..
Ha, I woke up on starting line in waldo once.... In my hangover, I was greeted by a crowd of pregaming tailgaters, (I don't follow football, I just fell asleep having a field of dreams moment...) By the grace of God,.I was greeted with beer and snacks as I stumbled my way out, prolly wouldn't have made it home without the love of them dedicated broncos fans.... Aside from that the town sucks.
Waking up on the starting line in Waldo sounds like quite the unexpected adventure! It's fortunate that you were greeted with kindness and hospitality from the tailgaters, even if football isn't your thing. It's amazing how sometimes strangers can offer help and support when we least expect it. It's a shame to hear that your overall experience in the town wasn't as positive, but at least you have a memorable story to tell!
Kalamazoo certainly has a lively nightlife scene, with plenty of opportunities to enjoy a drink or two. Whether it's grabbing a craft beer at one of the local breweries or checking out the bar scene downtown, there's no shortage of options for those who enjoy a good time. Just remember to drink responsibly and take care of your liver!
My adopted parent and their family owned a insurance company down town by library across from Bronson park i wont say the name to protect my maiden name
How cold does it get in Kalamazoo? Well, 30 degrees in the fall can be brutal, but 30 degrees in the spring feels like a tropical heat wave with people going out in shorts (no joke). That's how cold it gets in Kalamazoo.
While 30 degrees in the fall might feel harsh, 30 degrees in the spring can feel surprisingly mild, with people shedding their winter layers and embracing the warmer weather in shorts. It's a testament to the unpredictability of Midwest weather and the resilience of Kalamazoo residents!
I've been living here since the 90's. It is a shadow of what it used to be, but if you are looking for a good game, show or meal you can still find something in Kalamazoo. Just be aware of your surroundings at all times and don't stay out too late at night.
I grew up in Kalamazoo but now live in the SF Bay Area. You don't see the masses of unhoused people in Michigan as in CA. Not that there aren't unhoused people in MI, but just fewer.
Considering a move from Minneapolis to Kalamazoo? Kalamazoo's definitely smaller, but it's got its own vibe. Some folks might find it cozy, others might feel it's a bit quiet. People there are generally friendly, and you'll find the basics you need. It's got a charm of its own, with artsy stuff and community events to keep you engaged. Take a visit, see how it feels!
@@livegreatgr Thanks for that info.I did visit once but was only one day had me a Biggby coffee 👍It was not enough time I went to mainly look how big Pfizer was and yeah its big time there.One -that has be thinking hard about the Move is Car Ins Michigan is abusing its folks there Right Now Im paying 2 full coverage SUVS for 1,850 A Year .Im calling Monday Kalamazoo to get a Quote ,Im already preparing for possibly double 1,850 if its more then Double that will be a deal breaker just out of anger.Wish me luck
Like anything else ….it just depends on the neighborhood etc. and what you do in life for work and play. I prefer country life myself …..so I’d never live there. But I’d never live in any city ever again.
