Get Quote

Moving to Detroit in 2025?
Complete Moving Guide

This is a complete guide for Moving to Detroit.
Get all the information you need to know about moving to Detroit.

Planning to move to Detroit?

Detroit is a city with a rich history and dynamic present. The city is known to have a diverse economy with significant growth in the automotive industry. The cost of living in the town is generally affordable with a lower housing cost. The city is equipped with diverse neighborhoods exhibiting unique features and amenities. Detroit experiences all four seasons with cold winters and warm, humid summers. The city boasts a vibrant art and culture scene with several music venues, museums, and art galleries. These are some basic details about the city, but you need more information if you are planning to move there. This moving guide will give you insights into the lifestyle in Detroit-

Quick Facts of Detroit

Interesting features of Detroit-

Detroit is the “Motor City” like the heart of the American automotive industry.

The city was founded by Antoine de la Mothe Cadillac in 1701.

The city is the birthplace of Motown Records.

Detroit plays a crucial role in the Underground Railroad.

Detroit was a major hub for illegal alcohol smuggling during Prohibition.

Detroit is one of the few places in the US where you can look and see Canada.

The "Monumental Kitty" statue is located in the Corktown area.

The first four-way traffic light was hung at the intersection of Woodward and Fort St.

Tip: While moving the home, safety of your belongings is the priority and you need a trustworthy mover at your side. know the top-rated moving companies in Detroit.

Top reasons to move to Detroit

Moving has become an essential stage of life where people relocate to a new city or state for various purposes. This section of our moving guide will help you find the right reasons to move to Detroit-

Cost of living- The cost of living in Detroit is significantly lower than many major cities in the US. Housing is the most affordable parameter that makes the city a great option.

Job Market- The economy of the city is diversifying with automotive industry at its top. There are several industries in the city that are creating employment opportunities.

Community- The city is known to have a strong sense of community and boasts a vibrant art and culture scene. It is home to world-class museums and theatres.

Sports Culture- Detroit is a big sports town with several teams of major American sorts leagues.

Neighborhoods- The city offer variety of unique variations and they offer options for various lifestyles.

Pros & Cons of Living in Detroit

The best way to prepare for a move is by learning about the pros and cons of life in a new city. Here are the pros and cons of living in Detroit-

Pros of Living in Detroit	Cons of Living in Detroit
Affordable cost of living with significantly lower housing costs	Public transportation is limited in the city
Rich in music, art, and historical significance	The city faces infrastructure challenges
Ongoing revitalization is creating business and job opportunities	Crime rates are higher in the city
Strong community spirit and resilient residents	The city experiences cold and snowy winters
Vibrant sports culture with teams in all major American sports	Michigan has the highest car insurance rates in the US

Tip: When you've got a home to move in Detroit, getting the best moving quote will be your goal. Request moving company quotes to save on moving cost.

Best Neighborhoods in the Detroit

Detroit is known for its unique neighborhoods and strong sense of community. A neighborhood in a new city will help you adjust to the surroundings. Here we have curated a list with some details about top neighborhoods in Detroit-

Corktown- This is one of the oldest neighborhoods of Detroit with historic charm and modern vibe. It has undergone revitalization for historic buildings, restaurants and lively bars.

Downtown Detroit- This is the central business district that offers mix of residential, commercial and entertainment spaces. This location is home to the Riverwalk and sports venues. It is experiencing a lot of renovation.

Midtown- The neighborhood is cultural hub and home to the Detroit Institute of Arts and Wayne State University. You can find diverse dining and housing options in this area.

Lafayette Park- It is a unique and modern neighborhood with minimalist architecture and abundant green spaces. This location was designed by architect Mies van der Rohe.

Eastern Market- This location is centered around historic Eastern Market. This is a lively neighborhood with mix of residential and commercial spaces.

Cost of living in Detroit

The cost of living a in Detroit is generally considered affordable compared to many major US cities. The housing costs in the city are affordable but they can vary depending on the neighborhood. Other expenses including utilities, transportation, groceries, and healthcare are available at a cost of living lower than the national average. Here is the breakdown of the cost of living in Detroit-

Category	Detroit (in USD)
Rent (1-bedroom apartment)	$960 - $1,182
Utilities (Monthly)	$148 - $231
Food (Monthly)	$605 - $1,585
Transportation (Monthly)	$65.10 - $109
Internet (Monthly)	$59.60
Milk (1 gallon)	$3.28
Bread (1 lb)	$2.66
Eggs (12)	$3.52
Gasoline (1 gallon)	$3.43

Housing Market in Detroit

In Detroit, the housing market presents a complex picture that offers both opportunities and challenges. It is significantly affordable however the prices have increased over the years. The median sale price for a house is around $88,000.

Average rental cost in Detroit

The average rental cost for a house in Detroit is around $1,100.

Detroit job market

Before you move to a new city, learn about the job market and explore the opportunities. The job market in Detroit is undergoing a significant transformation. It is experiencing challenges and growth in key sectors.

Top Career Options in Detroit

Learn about the top career options in Detroit-

Job Title	Average Salary	Entry-Level Salary
Automotive Engineer	$70,000 - $120,000+	$50,000 - $70,000
Software Engineer	$80,000 - $130,000+	$55,000 - $80,000
Data Scientist	$90,000 - $140,000+	$60,000 - $90,000
Healthcare	$60,000 - $90,000+	$45,000 - $60,000
Nurse Practitioner	$100,000 - $150,000+	Varies
Electrician	$50,000 - $80,000+	$35,000 - $50,000
Construction Manager	$70,000 - $110,000+	Varies
Financial Analyst	$60,000 - $100,000+	$45,000 - $65,000
Transportation/Logistics	$49,500 - $311,100	Varies greatly

Median Salary in Detroit

The median salary of a household in Detroit is around $60,900 a year.

Transportation And Navigation In Detroit

The city has a mix of transportation options, including public and private transportation.

Personal vehicles- The infrastructure of the city is designed to make car travel more efficient. If you drive a car to commute, you can easily navigate outside of the downtown area. However, the car insurance rates are higher in Michigan. Public transport- Detroit Department of Transportation (DDOT) provides bus services within the city of Detroit. SMART (Suburban Mobility Authority for Regional Transportation) operate bus services and QLINE is a streetcar line that runs along Woodward Avenue. There are ride-sharing options, including Uber and Lyft. Downtown Detroit is more bike-friendly. Navigation- The city is easy to navigate with a radial street layout and provides freeway access to the suburbs. Various GPS-based apps like Google Maps and Waze can be used to navigate the city.

Start Your Moving Quote Now!

Get multiple quotes from top professional movers now Start My Quote

Major industries in Detroit

The city is home to several major industries, including-

Automotive and Mobility

Technology

Advanced manufacturing

Healthcare

Logistics

Defense

Education System in Detroit

Explore multiple schools or colleges in the new city to find a perfect school. This will help your kids to adapt to the environment and continue their education in the new city. Here are some good schools, colleges and universities in Detroit-

Elementary Schools in Detroit
Bates Academy
Detroit International Academy for Young Women
Fisher Magnet Lower Academy
Ann Arbor Trail Magnet School
Chrysler Elementary School

Middle Schools in Detroit
Bates Academy
Detroit International Academy for Young Women
Clippert Multicultural Honors Academy
Fisher Magnet Upper Academy
Edward 'Duke' Ellington Conservatory of Music & Art at Beckham Academy

High Schools in Detroit
Cass Technical High School
Renaissance High School
Detroit School of Arts
Detroit International Academy for Young Women
King High School

Colleges and Universities in Detroit
Wayne State University
University of Detroit Mercy
College for Creative Studies (CCS)
University of Michigan-Dearborn
Sacred Heart Major Seminary

Best things to do in Detroit

Exploring the new city is the best way to learn about it and connect with neighbors and neighborhood-

Indulge in the history and culture of the city at destinations including-

Detroit Institute of Arts (DIA)

The Henry Ford Museum of American Innovation

Motown Museum

Eastern Market

Check out these options for entertainment and recreation at –

Detroit RiverWalk

Sports Events

Casinos

Belle Isle Park

Taxes in Detroit

All the residents of Detroit are subject to a range of taxes at the federal, state, and local levels. Here is the breakdown of the different taxes they pay-

Income Tax- All the residents have to pay federal income tax that is levied by the US government.

Sales tax- Some taxes are levied on goods and services. This tax is levied on retail purchases.

Property Tax- These taxes are administered at local level. The fund collected is used for services at schools and infrastructure.

Type of insurance required in Detroit

When you move to a new state or city, you have to buy different insurance, some of which are mandated by state law.

Auto Insurance- Michigan has a unique no-fault auto insurance system and also provides more options. The auto insurance includes following coverages-

Liability coverage (bodily injury and property damage)

Personal injury protection (PIP)

Uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage

Collision and comprehensive coverage (optional, but recommended)

Homeowners or Renters Insurance- These insurances protect your home and belongings from damage caused by fire, theft and more.

Health Insurance- This insurance is essential as it covers medical expenses including doctors visits, hospital stays and prescription medicines.

Life Insurance- This insurance will provide financial support to your beneficiaries in the event of your death.

Umbrella Coverage- This insurance provides additional liability coverage beyond your homeowners and auto insurance policies.

Ready to start planning your move?

Tell us a little bit about your move and let us make your move simple. Start My Quote

Disclaimer: The information provided in this guide is for informational purposes only and should not be construed as legal, financial, or professional advice. It is recommended to conduct thorough research and consult relevant experts before making any decisions related to relocation.

State Moving Guides