A decade of positive transformations for east Detroit neighborhood
Eight miles from downtown Detroit, Morningside calls itself "a community on the rise." The neighborhood dates to the early 20th century and features a collection of eye-catching architecture from the period. Between 2000 and 2010, it experienced a 27% population loss and falling owner-occupancy rates, much like other neighborhoods across the city. However, a decade-long transformation driven by nonprofits and passionate community members has turned vacant lots into neighborhood parks and cleaned up dumping grounds. In turn, the community has seen rising owner-occupancy rates and stronger community involvement. Homebuyers, drawn to Morningside's family-friendly offerings and affordability, are transforming the landscape with home renovations. The revitalization continues as community members fundraise to renovate and reopen the historic neighborhood theater. Yet residents are already reaping the benefits of their hard work through rising property values. "If you look at the value, it's been an upward incline," says Gentraia Brown, Realtor with Keller Williams Domain. "Right now, there are a lot of homes in the mid-$200,000 range. You wouldn't have seen that five years ago."
The neighborhood of Morningside is a historic region of the east side Detroit.
A vibrant mural at Three Mile-Munich Park in Morningside.
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Tudors and Colonials with original features
Morningside blossomed in the 1920s due to Detroit's rising middle class. The neighborhood still resembles those early days with its brick Tudor houses with steep, pointy roofs, symmetrical Colonials and towering mature trees. Homes are evenly spaced out with well-kept, grassy front lawns. In 2015, Stabilizing Morningside, a University of Michigan project, helped develop a plan to prevent tax foreclosures, renovate houses and turn vacant lots into assets. The Morningside Community Organization oversees a Vacant Property Tax Force to help improve the look of abandoned homes. Many individuals have also purchased and renovated properties in recent years while retaining original features such as hardwood floors. "The homes are well built," Brown says. "They cared more about the architectural style when they built them, so there is a lot of character. That's something you can't find everywhere." Houses may still need new kitchens and bathrooms. Fixer-uppers can range from $60,000 to $100,000, while updated properties range from $130,000 to $240,000.
A row of masonry homes in the Morningside neighborhood.
The Morningside suburb is filled with stunning Tudor brick homes.
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Community gatherings at Three Mile Munich Park
Green spaces take the place of abandoned houses and vacant lots. In 2016, nonprofits helped construct a playground in the center of the neighborhood, building a foundation for Three Mile Munich Park. It's received substantial upgrades since then, and today includes an open green space with tree cover and picnic tables, outdoor fitness equipment, a picnic pavilion and a playground. New sidewalks add accessibility, while a vibrant mural greets parkgoers. It's a gathering space for neighborhood meetings, family reunions and special events, such as Neighborhoods Day, featuring food, tabletop games and vendors selling plants, art and more. Just west, Corrigan Park is a large open space with a baseball field, playground and walking path looping around the perimeter. Nearby Chandler Park is Detroit's fourth largest park, featuring sports fields, a skate park, an aquatic facility and a municipal golf course.
Three Mile-Munich Park has a designated fitness zones for visitors in Morningside.
Kids will enjoy playing for hours outside at Corrigan Park.
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East Warren Tool Library helps with home renovations
Shops and restaurants are concentrated along East Warren Avenue, in the center of the neighborhood, and Mack Avenue, bordering the neighborhood's south side. On East Warren, Morningside Café is a modern coffee shop serving espresso drinks and baked goods. Flamz Pizzeria is popular for its specialty creations, such as seafood pizza with white garlic sauce, shredded mozzarella, shrimp, crab and spinach. Both spots opened in recent years and reopened after repairing fire damage. They could signal more shopping and dining to come, says Brown, "There are some open retail spots, so I can see that potentially being an area for development. The residents came, and now the businesses will come." Public Foods is a centrally located grocery store, while Aldi provides an alternative to the southwest. The East Warren Tool Library contributes to Morningside's revitalization efforts by lending out construction tools and hosting workshops. One-time project tool requests cost $150. Further south, Park Antiques is a cash-only operation on Mack that sells secondhand treasures such as blown glass and wall décor.
Flamz Pizza is well-reviewed and is an excellent choice for a Friday night meal.
Morningside Cafe received excellent reviews for its fresh beans & locally made baked goods.
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Historic Alger Theater is a work in progress
The Alger Theater is a designated historic landmark, a piece of Detroit history in Morningside. It's another example of this neighborhood's commitment to improvement. One of Detroit's last neighborhood movie theaters, it opened in 1935 and played its last movie in 1985. Since then, dedicated volunteers under the banner of Friends of the Alger Theater have worked toward returning it to a neighborhood destination. A new roof is under construction, and the next step will be to work on the interior. "It's going to take a while because it will cost $3 million," says Jackie Grant, president of the Friends of the Alger Theater and former president of the Morningside Community Organization. In the meantime, the theater helps residents apply for the Homeowners Property Exemption program, which eliminates property taxes for qualifying individuals. Residents may schedule an appointment and visit the HOPE office adjoining the theater. Locals can also add a personalized message to the theater marquee.
Featherstone Garden strives to educate the Morningside community on health and wellness.
The historic Alger Theatre hosts community events and year-round programming.
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After-school tutoring at Carstens Academy
The Detroit Public Schools Community District earns a C from Niche and offers school choice. Morningside students may attend the C-minus-rated Ronald Brown Academy for pre-kindergarten through eighth grade, where they may participate in robotics, chess and photography clubs. Carstens Academy of Aquatic Science also earns a C-minus and serves pre-kindergarten through eighth-grade students. The 21st Century After-School program provides extra academic support in core subjects such as reading and math. Teens can attend high school at the D-rated East English Village Preparatory Academy, known for its robotics program and career pathways in pharmacy tech and business.
Ronald Brown Academy school is a Michigan Green School for energy saving initiatives.
Carstens Academy of Aquatic Science serves Pre-K - 8th grade students in Jefferson Chalmers.
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Interstate 94 leads to downtown Detroit
Getting to downtown Detroit is possible by car or bus. Commuters can take Interstate 94, which borders the neighborhood's north side, and East Warren Avenue, located in the center of the neighborhood. The number eight bus, through the Detroit Department of Transportation, arrives on East Warren every 30 minutes, connecting with other bus lines toward downtown. East Warren also has protected bike lanes running east and west. The Detroit Medical Center Central Campus is about 9 miles west, offering 24-hour emergency care.
Detroit Police Department works to lower homicide rates
Morningside has a CAP Index crime score of five out of 10, compared with a score of four for the national average. It earns an eight for homicide and seven for assault with weapon. Morningside is part of the Detroit Police Department's fifth precinct, which saw a rise in homicides between 2020 and 2021. The department's 2022 Community Safety Strategy outlines action plans for the precinct involving crowd management and code enforcement, community engagement, police presence and noise and traffic enforcement.
GreatSchools:
The GreatSchools Rating helps parents compare schools within a state based on a variety of school quality indicators and provides a helpful picture of how effectively each school serves all of its students. Ratings are on a scale of 1 (below average) to 10 (above average) and can include test scores, college readiness, academic progress, advanced courses, equity, discipline and attendance data. We also advise parents to visit schools, consider other information on school performance and programs, and consider family needs as part of the school selection process.
View GreatSchools Rating Methodology
Are you familiar with the Morningside neighborhood?
to let others know what life in this neighborhood is like.
Crime and Safety
1 - Low Crime, 10 - High Crime
Morningside
US
Homicide
5
4
Sexual Assault
5
4
Assault with Weapon
6
4
Robbery
6
4
Burglary
4
4
Motor Vehicle Theft
4
4
Larceny
5
4
Crime Score
6
4
Source: WhatIsMyCrimeRisk.com
Morningside Demographics and Home Trends
On average, homes in Morningside, Detroit sell after 57 days on the market compared to the national average of 53 days. The median sale price for homes in Morningside, Detroit over the last 12 months is $140,000, up 10% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Meticulously Renovated Home in Detroit’s Morningside Neighborhood! Don’t miss the opportunity to tour this beautifully restored home on Detroit’s Eastside in the desirable Morningside community. This spacious property features 5 bedrooms and 3 gorgeous full bathrooms, carefully designed for comfort and ease of living, and lots of natural light.*The fully renovated kitchen boasts attractive
Welcome to this beautifully renovated 4 bedroom home in the Morningside Community. This stunning property offers modern updates and stylish finishes throughout. Featuring a spacious layout, brand-new kitchen, two renovated full bathrooms, and natural hardwood flooring. This home boasts ample natural light, a private backyard, and convenient access to local amenities. New roof, furnace and water
This 2 Story Colonial Brick home has so much potential, whether you are looking to own an investment property or looking to move into a new space for yourself! The Seller has done some minor updates to this property including newer windows, an updated kitchen, newer furnace and water tank!! 3 Bedrooms with 1 Bath, unfinished large basement, and a walk out balcony. Come check this property out and
Renovation opportunity in Morningside! Bring this classic Detroit duplex back to life and house hack or rent both units out. The property features two spacious two bedroom one bathroom units with strong bones original details ready to be restored and a layout that supports efficient rehab and long term durability. Estimated market rent is 1050 per unit rents are projected making this a compelling
The Most House for Your Money in the Desirable Morningside Neighborhood of Detroit. Every other home in this price range needs work. This one is 100% DONE and all renovations were completed with required city permits and approvals. Move in, unpack, start living! Brand new EVERYTHING including advanced electrical, plumbing, and sewer systems, energy-efficient upgrades, 2 furnaces, 2 air
EAST ENGLISH VILLAGE! MORNINGSIDE, This beautiful classic colonial is 12 homes from Mack. LARGE lot, screened porch, lots of off street parking. Finished basement, hardwood thru out. Large bedrooms as would be expected. Classic fancy trim and interior glass privacy doors. Great neighborhood
Beautifully Renovated Brick Colonial in Detroit’s Morningside Neighborhood!Welcome to this move-in-ready 3-bedroom, 1-bath home featuring modern updates throughout. Step inside to a bright, open living room with recessed lighting, fresh paint, new vinyl flooring, and a classic fireplace as the centerpiece. The arched doorways add charm and flow seamlessly into the dining area and fully
All-Brick Colonial with 4 bedrooms and a full basement. This home offers outstanding space and functionality. The basement provides flexible space, enjoy a private backyard, off-street parking, and a solid build that stands the test of time. Ideal for families or investors — schedule your showing today!
Just Listed! Beautifully renovated colonial with high-end finishes throughout! Featuring new luxury vinyl flooring, plush carpet in all bedrooms, and a completely updated kitchen with new cabinets, countertops, stylish backsplash, and elegant lighting. The main bathroom boasts stunning tile work and a designer backsplash, along with updated fixtures. Enjoy a spacious family room with a custom
Fully remodeled in 2025, this move-in ready home offers fresh modern updates and a spacious two-car garage. Every detail has been thoughtfully improved, making it both stylish and functional. Whether you're enjoying the refreshed interior or the convenience of ample garage space, this property is designed for comfort. A great find for homebuyers or investors—schedule your showing today!
Updated colonial in the heart of the Morningside neighborhood! FRESH refinished hardwood flooring throughout the main floor. BIG expenses of windows and roof are done. NEW furnace and water tank installed 2024 with low wear & tear. This property features a LARGE living room, family room, and dining room centered around the kitchen. Plus, a full basement that is partially finished. PLUS a 4
Welcome home! Beautifully updated 3-bedroom home located in Detroit’s desirable Morningside neighborhood. This property has been refreshed from top to bottom with modern finishes and thoughtful upgrades throughout. Enjoy a bright and inviting living space, a newly updated kitchen, appliances included, spacious bedrooms perfect for comfortable living. Fresh paint throughout, wood floors, and
Eric GoosenBerkshire Hathaway HomeServices Kee Realty SCS
Great Opportunity to own this single-family home oozing with potential. This home was built in 2000 and features 3 bedrooms and 1 bathroom, with plenty of living space. ***SPECIAL NOTES: (1) This is a CASH ONLY transaction. (2) Seller to pay Taxes, HOA, and Municipal/Utility Liens. (3) Please read the Auction disclaimers carefully before placing a bid or submitting an offer. *** Occupied
Well-maintained three-bedroom, one-and-a-half-bath home at 4000 Berkshire in Detroit offered at $1,400 per month. The interior features refinished hardwood floors, fresh paint, and good natural light throughout. The updated kitchen offers modern white cabinetry, granite-style countertops and a tile backsplash. Spacious living and dining areas provide a comfortable layout accented by original trim
Now leasing: this professionally renovated 3-bedroom, 1.5-bath home on Somerset Ave.We are pet-friendly! Your dogs and cats are welcome at 4014 Somerset Avenue.This home boasts recent upgrades, creating a modern and welcoming feel. You'll find essential amenities like a refrigerator, washer/dryer hookups, and a well-equipped kitchen featuring an electric Stove and Oven and
Welcome to 11156 E Outer Dr, a well-maintained and inviting rental home that offers comfort, functionality, and thoughtful updates throughout. This property is ideal for tenants seeking a practical home in an established neighborhood with convenient access to everyday amenities. The home features a bright and spacious living area filled with natural light, creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere
Enjoy the perfect blend of comfort and convenience at 4400 Buckingham Unit 2, a charming duplex rental in the heart of Detroit, MI. This delightful 2-bedroom, 1-bathroom unit offers a spacious living experience ideal for those who appreciate thoughtful design and functionality. Step inside to discover a welcoming atmosphere that invites you to unwind and make yourself at home. Each bedroom
Two-family flat located near Mack Ave and Gratiot Ave. Both the upper and lower units are available for lease. The lower unit offers 2 bedrooms with a separate dining room, while the upper unit features 1 bedroom and its own dining room. Rent is $850 per unit. $850 security deposit and first month’s rent required to move in.Contact Darroll Jenkins to schedule an appointment and/or request an
Introducing this attractively updated 3-bedroom, 1.5-bath home on Bedford St in the Development Cos Sub subdivision of Detroit. We are pet-friendly! Your dogs and cats are welcome at 4604 Bedford Street.Modern updates define this home's inviting character. Inside, find desirable features like convenient washer/dryer hookups, and a kitchen equipped with granite/quartz surfaces, a
Charming and spacious lower-level duplex available for rent at 4651 Chatsworth St in Detroit. This desirable 2 bedroom, 1 bath unit features a comfortable layout with generous living space and well-sized bedrooms. Enjoy the privacy and convenience of a lower-level home with easy access and a cozy, inviting feel throughout. Located on a quiet residential street close to shopping, dining, major
Lease now and receive 50% off your first full month's rent. This 1100 sq. ft. apartment offers ample living space with convenient amenities. - Hardwood floors and carpet throughout - Ceiling fans for comfortable air circulation - Basement storage available - Hookups for laundry needs - On-street parking for easy access Located in a community with
All are welcomed to apply! This bungalow on Detroit's East side is conveniently located in the Morningside district. Within walking distance to shopping and dining on Mack Ave. Updated and freshly painted throughout. Sorry no garage and no central air. Lease application required. $35 app fee per adults age 18 and older. We will conduct a credit and background check. Credit is a factor! Minimum
Tour this charmingly refreshed 3-bedroom, 2-bath home on Balfour Rd in the Development Cos Sub subdivision of Detroit. We are pet-friendly! Your dogs and cats are welcome at 4812 Balfour Road.Benefit from recent upgrades in this inviting home. Essential appliances are included: whole-home Air Conditioning, refrigerator, a gas stove/oven, . The kitchen boasts modern granite/quartz
This second-floor unit offers 3 well-sized bedrooms and 1 updated full bathroom, complemented by modern finishes throughout. This level features fresh paint, updated flooring, and a newly refreshed kitchen and bathroom for a clean, move-in-ready experience. With a bright living area and functional layout, this unit provides both comfort and flexibility. It also includes its own separate basement
Step into this newly-remodeled and refreshed 4-bedroom, 1.5-bath home on 3 Mile Dr.We are pet-friendly! Your dogs and cats are welcome at 5766 3 Mile Drive.Recently upgraded, this home has a contemporary, inviting atmosphere and comes fully-equipped with all modern amenities including an electric Stove and Oven, and a Refrigerator. The modernized kitchen features granite and quartz
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