The ladies of Westwood, MI, should count themselves lucky. Just a few miles away, in Kalamazoo, it is illegal to serenade your girlfriend. Luckily, Westwood provides access to all the good things of Kalamazoo, and lets lovers be lovers.
Westwood is a suburb of Kalamazoo in southern Michigan. About 9,122 residents live within its 2.8 square miles. As part of the greater Kalamazoo area, Westwood has its share of the benefits of industrial and pharmaceutical industries of the county which provides employment and business opportunities to residents.
Moving to Westwood
There are important things to consider before making that great move to Westwood. As mentioned, the area is populous, but this gives the place a city vibe. Workers in various industries in Kalamazoo coupled with the proximity of Western Michigan University and the Westwood school network comprising eight schools account for the number of residents.
This large population also creates a tight rental property market, although rental rates are generally affordable. Given this, it is a must to scout for vacancies early or subscribe to apartment listings in Westwood to increase your chances.
If you are really bent on settling in Westwood, then follow your heart and make a good impression for rental property owners or agents. Come prepared with proof of income, credit history, references, and deposit money.
If you are ready for the big move, schedule your welcome to Westwood day. You might want to avoid September for the crowd of students and summer vacationers going in and out of the place. Consider the weather too, as July and August can be sweltering while December and January may see you parking unexpectedly on snowy roads.
Westwood Neighborhoods
Suburban Westwood rental property is primarily small studio or one and two bedroom apartment complexes, mid-size townhomes, as well as detached, bigger homes.
Westwood: The Westwood neighborhood in the central part is a mix of established, older homes built from the 1940s to 1970s and newer mid to hi-rise serviced apartments developed in the 1980s and 1990s.
Maple Brooks: Maple Brook Apartments is a neighborhood near Persianwood Drive and is composed of two or three bedroom townhomes. Scout this and nearby areas for month to month rental terms if you're planning a short-term stay.
Living in Westwood
The main highway is State Highway 43 crossing the busy West Main Street that runs from east to west. Majority of residents prefer to use cars rather than public transport. Still, average travel time to work is just 15 minutes one way. Also, most places of interest and public amenities are short distances of each other and make for great walking exercises.
For those coming farther from Michigan, the Battle Creek International Airport in Kalamazoo is the nearest airstrip, about 3.5 miles from Westwood.
Westwood Plaza shopping mall is a popular local retail center and a great place to start familiarizing yourself with Westwood and your neighbors.
A favorite stop is the Main Street Pub for a unique dining combo of southwestern chicken wraps or jalapeno cheddar and apple salad. The nearby Cold Stone Creamery provides a tasty treat after a long day of unpacking. There's also a branch of the Natural Health Food Center for vegans and a popular trendy clothing store, Three Hundred and Sixty Degrees.
Offering rest and relaxation is Frays Park, a large stretch of green space between Piccadilly Road and Stafford Road.
Theme park excitement can be enjoyed just a bit farther, at the Kalamazoo Dream Ride with its 60 mile loop. If you're not in for loop thrills, the place also offers 60.2 miles of great walking and biking trails.