Center Line

I lived in Center Line for 10 years after getting married. It used to be a great little city that is completely surrounded by a much larger urban city (Warren). When we first moved in, it was a great city that was extremely safe. It is only about 2 square miles with a very responsive police force. But over the years, I watched my wonderful city go downhill and quickly. Crime rose dramatically, schools declined and the ethnic diversity shifted greatly due in large part to declining home values.

I raised three school aged children while in Center Line and was very happy up until the past year, when we decided that it was time to move for our children's safety. The schools themselves are awesome. There are 3 elementary schools, one middle school and one high school, which has a great hometown feel. Every year they have a Homecoming parade that the whole city attends, old and young alike.

There are a lot of great qualities to Center Line that a lot of bigger cities seem to overlook. Like the wonderful 4th of July fireworks at the local park. They have a lot of family activities at the Recreation Center for almost every holiday.

A lot of the shopping has disappeared out of Center Line with the exception of the family owned grocery store that is extremely overpriced, but still offers a carry out service. Gas stations have closed due to the rising gas prices, but there is nearby shopping in the Warren area, which is less than a couple of miles away.

Home values have steadily decreased, but this is a great area for rental property. Most homes are small bungalow or ranch homes that are valued around $110,000 with very large yards, which is rare now-a-days.

I would recommend this city for a younger family with children that are looking for a good deal on a rental home.