July 10th, 2023
Living in Detroit, MI
Are you considering a move to Detroit, MI? Make sure you know these 7 things about living in Detroit, MI.
Want to move to the motor city? Well, you are in the right place. Detroit overall is a very unique place and unlike others. This metropolitan area is located below the thumb on the mitt of Michigan and is the largest city in the midwestern state of Michigan.
Not only is this city known as the automobile capital of the world, but it is also famous for its distinctive Motown music sound from the 1960s. Detroit is home to a various mix of ethnic backgrounds and is known as one of the biggest melting pots. The overall population here is about 639,111, and it is known to be the 27th most populous city in the Unitied States.
The City of Detroit anchors the third-largest regional economy in the Midwest and is the best-known center of the U.S. automobile industry, and the "Big Three" auto manufacturers General Motors, Ford, and Chrysler are all headquartered in the Metro area of the city. So, if you are looking to be in the heart of it all, moving to Detroit may be the perfect place for you. Keep reading to learn about the essential things to know before moving to Detroit, Michigan.
Here are the 7 things that you need to know about life in Detroit!
Cost of Living
Detroit's cost of living overall is 4 percent higher than the national average. Breaking this number down, housing expenses are 8 percent higher than the national average, utility prices are 2 percent lower, and transportation expenses like bus fares and gas prices are 1 percent higher than the national average.
A family of four estimated monthly cost is $3,847.70 without rent, and a single person estimated monthly costs are about $1,116.50 without rent. Detroit's cost of living is about 30 percent less expensive than other metro cities like New York. However, keep in mind that these numbers are just averages and are not set and stone, but overall, Detroit is an affordable place to live.
Affordability is one of the main factors that attract people to this city. The cost of living is an important concept to know before moving somewhere new because this will help you decide whether you can afford life here or not. However, keep in mind that the cost of living does vary depending on your personal lifestyle and where you choose to live, so make sure you compare it to how your life is.
| Cost of Living Category | Average Cost |
| Median Home Price | $486,535 |
| Median Rent Price | $1,479/month |
| Gas | $3.43/gallon |
| Gallon of Milk | $2.46 |
| Doctor's Visit | $123.66 |
Sourced from Payscale.
Real Estate
As of June 2023, Detroit has been known as a neutral housing market which means that prices tend to be reasonable and stay on the market for the typical length of time. The median listing price for homes for sale here is about $132,502 and, on average, stays on the market for about 86 days.
The housing market, in general, will always vary depending on the time of year, the economy, and many other things. But in Detroit, it offers its residents various options between buying and renting and has affordable living with unique spaces compared to other places. Finding a home here that fits your perfect needs will not be hard! Make sure to check out the best neighborhoods in Detriot, best neighborhoods in Grand Rapids, best neighborhoods in Warren and moving to Sterling Heights to help decide what area is for you.
The housing market here is known for its competitiveness and unique dynamics since this city is one of the most populous places in the Midwest. The market is on the rise but keeps in mind that housing trends and the economy can impact the prices. Overall, homes here in Detroit and relatively affordable, and there is something for everyone.
If you are interested in looking for homes for sale in Detroit, you should check out single-family homes, luxury homes, new-construction homes, and gated community homes. If you are interested in the area but want a more quiet environment, check out moving to Warren.
Weather
Detroit's weather is continental, with very cold winters and warm to hot summers, with frequent thunderstorms. The southern regions of the state tend to be warmer, with an annual range of 18 degrees Fahrenheit to 82 degrees Fahrenheit while the northern regions of the state are usually colder, with temperatures that range from 3 degrees Fahrenheit to 75 degrees Fahrenheit.
The northern summers are shorter while also you should keep in mind that the state overall has frequent snow in the winter, while they also have thunderstorms and even tornados. The coldest month in Detroit is Juanry, with overnight temperatures of 17 degrees Fahrenheit, while the warmest month is July, with a high temperature of 83 degrees Fahrenheit.
If you like the cold and snow, then this place is perfect for you. You will get the best of both worlds, but overall, a lot of snow.
Education
The Michigan public school system operates within districts governed by locally elected school boards and superintendents. Detroit Public Schools Community District is Michigan's largest public education system. They have 106 schools that serve grades pre-kindergarten to 12th grade.
Detroit is the nation's lowest-performing urban school area, with 6 percent of high school students proficient in math, 4 percent proficient in science, and 2/3 not proficient in reading. Overall, the education system here continues to evolve and improve, and it does offer diverse educational opportunities at various levels, but it does have room to grow. However, there are good schools around the area and throughout the state too.
Below are some of the top-rated public schools in Detroit based on academic performance and equity.
Crime Rates
With a crime rate of 59 per one thousand residents, Detroit has one of the highest crime rates in America compared to all communities of its size. One's chance of becoming a victim of either violent or property crime here is one in 17. Sadly, Detroit usually makes it on the "Top Ten Lists" of the worst cities when it comes to violence and crime rates. Larceny is by far the most common type of crime in Detroit.
These numbers mean that people living in Detroit are about 4 times more likely to experience a violent crime than others living in other parts of the country. Overall, the crime here is one of the biggest cons of this city. When moving somewhere, you want to find a place where you feel safe, and even though crime here is on the bad side, there are still some safe neighborhoods. So make sure you find the perfect area for you so you can feel safe.
Dining
Detroit offers a diverse and tasty culinary experience that also reflects the city's cultural diversity and environment. Whether you are looking for a casual eatery or an upscale restaurant, this city has it. Since it is located in a busy area, you will have various dining options ranging from locally sourced restaurants to food trucks and pop-ups.
Each area of the city has its own atmosphere of restaurants, so no matter what kind of cuisine you are in the mood for, you will be able to find it here at great expense.
Address: 47 Watson St, Detroit MI 48201
This New American restaurant is a modern, hip spot for steaks and more alongside beer, wine, and craft cocktails from the bar in a rustic setting.
3921 2nd Ave, Detroit MI 48201
This stylish spot for seasonal, locally sourced New American small plates and craft cocktails.
1431 Times Square, Detroit MI 48226
This is a soul food restaurant that is a stylish eatery featuring contemporary soul food, sophisticated cocktails, and a select wine list to choose from.
1903 Grand River Ave, Detroit MI 48226
This is an upscale, modern American cuisine and drinks in a stylish locale with outdoor tables and heated igloos. A unique experience!
Job Market
Detroit has seen the job market increase by 0.7 percent over the last year, and future job growth over the next ten years is predicted to be about 30 percent which is lower than the US average. This city also has an unemployment rate of about 9.6 percent, which, sadly, is higher than the national average of 6 percent.
The average income of a Detroit resident is $14,984 a year, while the national average is about $28,555. On the other hand, the median household income for a resident here is $26,095, while the US average is $53,482. According to a Detroit Economic Outlook forecast completed, Detroit's economy is projected to continue growing data a steady pace which is a good sign for residents and new-coming residents.
Overall, Detroit is a large metro city that has a lot to offer the residents. No matter what kind of occupation or industry you are working in, you will be able to find it here. So if you are moving somewhere new for job opportunities, then this place is an excellent spot to look at.
Pros and Cons of Moving to Detroit, MI
Pros:
- Comfort in a big city
- Low cost of living
- Various public transportation
- All four seasons
- Snow!
- Unique restaurants
- Good housing market
- Various job opportunities
Cons:
- Large population
- Bad crime rates
- Homelessness is a problem
- Low-income level
- Strong winters
- Bad education
FAQs - Moving to Detroit
Why do people move to Detroit?
People tend to move to this city because it is one of the most affordable cities, while the downtown area is the business and commercial center of the city, and it offers high residential living as well as traditional homes.
What are the main problems in Detroit?
Every city has its downfalls, but some of the challenges Detroit faces is the job growth, immigration, education, and crime.
What is Detriot most famous for?
Detriot is a place of people and places, trends and events, world-changed inventions, and groundbreaking music. Overall, it has been long known as the automobile capital of the world.
Moving to Detroit, MI - The Bottom Line
Overall, Detroit is a very unique metro city that has a lot to offer its residents. It may have its downsides, but this city has a rich history, vibrant culture, and a growing economy. Over the years, the reputation of Detroit is getting better, and they have seen processes over the years in attracting new people to the area. Moving to Michigan, in general, can have its ups and downs, so you have the weigh out what your goals and preferences are.
Not only is the cost of living low but overall, living here is known to be very affordable. Not only is it cheap to live here it also has a lot to do. The location of its city makes it easily accessible that provides various opportunities for its residents. The unique city and the diverse population make this city different than many others, and if you are looking for a place to live where a unique community will surround you, then this place is for you.
If you are interested in moving to Detroit, then please get in touch with us here so we can connect you with one of our Realty Specialists to help make your transition for you go smoothly. We are here to help you find the perfect home for you.
Contact us here today for any questions or help.
Ryan Fitzgerald
Hi there! My name is Ryan Fitzgerald, and I am a REALTOR®. My goal is to help you learn more about real estate through our Real Estate Blog! Hopefully, you enjoyed the above blog post and it found a way to provide help or value to you. When you're ready to buy or sell a home of your own let us know here. Please feel free to join the conversation by dropping us a comment below.
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