Stay around the lake in Belleville, gets a little ghetto the farther you go from the lakes...if you have kids steer clear the schools suck there.
Ann Arbor is another 10 minutes down 94, great city but can be pricey. I am considering a move there with some friends at the end of the year.
Could go up to Canton (15mins to the lot)...that has some decent areas, or you need to go up to Livonia, Northville, Plymouth, Farmington Hills. All have easy access to the freeway and are 20-25 minute drive to the parking lot. Most apartments I have stayed at allow pets(including my current place), but there is a fee.
I'm in Farmington hills and it takes me 25 mins to the lot (and I drive slow) and then another 20 minutes from the lot to sign in.