A Lesser-Known Pocket of Detroit’s 48219
Bringing the memorable nickname SOS, it’s a surprise that South of Six isn’t better known in Detroit’s culture psyche.
Luckily, the neighborhood has seen an upswing in popularity.
With diverse, family-friendly energy and older residents bringing much in the way of legacy, new homeowners are starting to invest in the community now more than ever before.
Its close proximity to the Avenue of Fashion and Ferndale bring much appeal as well, making for a perfect homebase for those that love Detroit’s creative, fast-paced entrepreneurial scene but also want the peace of mind that comes along with suburban living.
The neighborhood is located on Detroit’s northwest side, with its name coming from the fact that it’s situated “Just south of Six Mile (McNichols). It’s part of ZIP codes 48219 and 48221, which are also associated with nearby neighborhoods like Bagley, Greenfield, and the University District.
In short, SOS provides a sort of buffer point between “Detroit proper” and industrial-age suburban hubs like Southfield and Redford.
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South of State’s Real Estate Scene
First developed in the 1920s up through the 1950s during Detroit’s auto boom, South of Six has been experiencing a boom in development thanks to its early push into the suburbs, all while managing to hold on to its original working-class charm.
With a mix of long-term residents, first-time homeowners, and investors revitalizing older properties in the area, South of Six is a trendy, albeit lesser-known Detroit living community.
Homes in the area often feature detailing such as restored hardwood floors, coved ceilings, original fireplaces, and brick exteriors on moderate lots with fenced-in backyards and detached garages.
The housing stock is also highly diverse, with two-story colonials, classic brick bungalows, mid-century ranches, Cape Cods and brick bungalows leading the way.
Some prices common to the area are $80,000 for a fixer-upper upwards to $160,000 for a recently renovated home.
In short, South of Six is a great option for investors and first-time buyers alike.
Education in District 1’s South of Six Neighborhood
Public schools in South of Six include Bates Academy, a B rated magnet school, Bagley Elementary of Journalism and Technology, C+ rated, and Mumford High, C-, serving grades 9th through 12th.
For Charter options, nearby University YES Academy and Detroit Enterprise are two popular options in the area.
There are also a number of community organizations and nonprofits offering tutoring, summer camps, art programs and more for SOS area youth.
Dining, Shopping, Accessibility and More
Well connected to the rest of the city via 6 Mile Road, Livernois, and Wyoming, South of Six residents can enjoy close proximity to a variety of food and shopping hubs.
Some beloved options in the area include Coney Island diners, various Pizza spots, Kuzzo’s Chicken & Waffles, Petty Cash, and Breadless.
Detroit’s infamous “Avenue of Fashion” is also just a short drive away on Livernois, bringing a mix of cafés, dessert spots, beauty salons, chain grocery stores, and dozens of memorable restaurants.
The area is also just a quick drive to larger shopping districts like Ferndale and Southfield along with the Oakland Mall, with a drive downtown typically only taking 20 minutes max on light traffic days.
Parks and Outdoor Spaces in District 1
Though South of Six is already a highly walkable community with grid-style residential streets perfect for biking, dog walking, and sunset jogging, residents in the area are also central to a few different parks in the area for even more time in nature.
Two such options would be nearby Eliza Howell Park and Stoepel Park No. 1, which provide everything from baseball diamonds to tennis courts, playground equipment, and scenic walking trails.
There’s also Zussman Park and Rutherford Park, also located in the 48221 ZIP, which bring plenty of shaded picnic spots, wide open green spaces, and sports fields.
Why South of Six?
Bolstered by annual events like holiday lightning competitions and back-to-school fairs as well as neighborhood beautification projects and an active neighborhood watch program, community pride is high in Detroit’s South of Six.
The neighborhood watch program even partners up with local police precincts in the area to keep residents informed and engaged in public safety, as well as area youth focused on their bright futures ahead instead of petty crime.
Additional resident engagement opportunities like alley clean-ups, tree planting, and seasonal festivals further foster a strong sense of belonging and security.
