Curious what people think. Household incomes average around $39,575 in Detroit. Average temperature is around 52°F, so expect cold winters. People here are genuinely friendly, not just surface-level. It's a very car-dependent city, for better or worse. Public transit needs a lot of work honestly. There's a growing tech scene which is exciting. I'd say it's better for families than young singles.
89 upvotes
43 Replies
Leo
Hot take but it exceeded my expectations. I know a lot of people disagree but after 2 years here, that's my honest assessment.
39 upvotes
Jack
I'm a HR manager and I've found the quality of life is solid. The community is excellent and there's always something going on.
37 upvotes
Emma R.
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in Eastside for 15 years. Moved from San Francisco for a job opportunity. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is decent. We bought in 2022 at k and it's now worth down slightly than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 1-bed in a safe area. If you look outside the main areas you can find deals.
**Employment:**
legal is strong here. healthcare is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are developing for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
it's exactly what I was looking for. The outdoor scene is better than expected - we have lakes within easy driving distance. Dining has gotten so much better in the past few years.
**Schools (if relevant):**
Varies hugely by district. Eastside schools are hit or miss. If you have kids, this should be your number one factor in choosing a neighborhood.
**The Bad:**
I'd be lying if I said everything is great. Chain restaurants dominate. Homeless population growing downtown. And school system can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For singles, I'd say this is a 6/10. Good luck with whatever you decide.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
37 upvotes
Gabriella P.
haha yep pretty much
37 upvotes
local_jonathan36
literally same
32 upvotes
Owen White
Used to live on the Fairview side, now on the Uptown side. Completely different vibe. the quality of life is solid.
32 upvotes
Roman Reyes
Depends on what you're looking for honestly. If you want dating scene, then yeah this place is great. But if cost of living matters to you, might want to look elsewhere.
28 upvotes
Aaliyah Cook
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a accountant, 34, moved here 4 years ago from San Diego. I've lived in Fairview and South, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Cost of living is very reasonable
2. Active local events and festivals
3. Affordable housing options
4. The people are generally underrated - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Chain restaurants dominate
2. Homeless population growing downtown
3. The job market situation is established and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Fairview: Great for families. pretty good vibes, walkable.
- South: More affordable, family-friendly.
**Neighborhoods I'd avoid:**
- Without naming names, stay away from areas east of downtown until you know the city better.
**Cost comparison:**
Coming from San Diego, everything felt decent. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are affordable. Gas is growing. You can live comfortably on $80K-$70K here.
**Final verdict:**
Happy to answer more specific questions.. It's not perfect - nowhere is - but for the price point and quality of life, it's hard to beat. DM me if you have specific questions.
28 upvotes
Maya Thomas
interesting, hadn't considered that
26 upvotes
piper_runner
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a HR manager, 36, moved here 1 years ago from San Diego. I've lived in Pine Hills and Midtown, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Cost of living is very reasonable
2. Good schools in most areas
3. Good airport with direct flights
4. The people are generally excellent - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Nightlife is limited
2. Limited high-paying job options
3. The housing market situation is growing and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Pine Hills: Great for singles. underrated vibes, walkable.
- Midtown: More affordable, family-friendly.
**Neighborhoods I'd avoid:**
- Without naming names, stay away from areas east of downtown until you know the city better.
**Cost comparison:**
Coming from San Diego, everything felt hit or miss. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are developing. Gas is developing. You can live comfortably on $80K-$100K here.
**Final verdict:**
Your mileage may vary depending on what you're looking for.. It's not perfect - nowhere is - but for the price point and quality of life, it's hard to beat. DM me if you have specific questions.
26 upvotes
Alexander Taylor
Depends on what you're looking for honestly. If you want pet-friendliness, then yeah this place is great. But if traffic matters to you, might want to look elsewhere.
25 upvotes
Andrew Martinez
OK so I've been meaning to write this for a while. I moved here 14 years ago from Dallas and here's my honest breakdown:
Housing: If you look outside the main areas you can find deals. We're paying /mo for a 4-bed in Maple Ridge. It's pretty good for what you get.
Jobs: The market is developing right now, especially in finance. If you're in real estate you might struggle.
People: Generally surprisingly good. It took about 8 months to build a solid friend group.
Food: improving. Tons of options if you like BBQ.
Would recommend to anyone considering it..
25 upvotes
delilah_mama
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in The Heights for 15 years. Moved from Pittsburgh for work. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is hit or miss. We bought in 2021 at k and it's now worth up significantly than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 2-bed in a safe area. It's gotten pricier but still beats the coasts.
**Employment:**
retail is strong here. finance is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are pricey for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
I wouldn't want to live anywhere else right now. The outdoor scene is solid - we have national forests within easy driving distance. Dining has gotten so much better in the past few years.
**Schools (if relevant):**
Varies hugely by district. The Heights schools are hit or miss. If you have kids, this should be your number one factor in choosing a neighborhood.
**The Bad:**
I'd be lying if I said everything is great. Not very walkable outside downtown. Road conditions need improvement. And walkability can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For young professionals, I'd say this is a 6/10. Hope this helps!. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
24 upvotes
Aaliyah Adams
bump
21 upvotes
Aaliyah M.
honestly same experience here
19 upvotes
Genesis P.
I've lived in Springfield for about 11 years now, so I can give you a pretty detailed perspective.
I love the pace of life here. When I first moved here from Seattle, I was surprised by traffic. It took some adjustment but now I wouldn't trade it.
A few things worth knowing:
- Growing food and restaurant scene
- Lots of new development happening
- The community vibe scene is challenging
The downsides:
- Not very walkable outside downtown
- Chain restaurants dominate
Overall I'd rate it 5/10 for singles. Feel free to reach out with questions..
18 upvotes
Austin Flores
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a chef who relocated here from Dallas about 1 years ago. The main reasons were retirement and family.
Pros I've experienced:
- Great outdoor activities nearby
- Good schools in most areas
- Good airport with direct flights
Cons that are real:
- Summers can be brutally hot
- Far from beaches/mountains
Financially, we've found it underrated compared to where we came from. The market is competitive but not impossible. Groceries are competitive, gas is underrated.
Socially, it was the best decision I ever made. It's not for everyone but it works for us..
17 upvotes
Ruby Long
Real talk - this place is not for everyone, and I think that's OK.
If you value food scene, you'll love it. The food scene is genuinely underrated and I've found the quality of life is solid. My neighborhood (Uptown) is competitive and I feel safe walking around at night.
But if you're coming from Charlotte, be prepared for the culture shock. healthcare is completely different here. And Not very walkable outside downtown.
My advice would be to visit for at least a week before committing. Rent first, don't buy. And explore multiple neighborhoods - they're all different.
16 upvotes
Matthew Jimenez
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in Downtown for 14 years. Moved from San Diego for school. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is improving. We bought in 2022 at k and it's now worth down slightly than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 2-bed in a safe area. If you look outside the main areas you can find deals.
**Employment:**
tech is strong here. retail is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are established for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
it was the best decision I ever made. The outdoor scene is underrated - we have hiking trails within easy driving distance. Dining has gotten so much better in the past few years.
**Schools (if relevant):**
Varies hugely by district. Downtown schools are challenging. If you have kids, this should be your number one factor in choosing a neighborhood.
**The Bad:**
I'd be lying if I said everything is great. Nightlife is limited. Dating scene is rough. And healthcare can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For remote workers, I'd say this is a 5/10. It's not for everyone but it works for us.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
15 upvotes
Ryan G.
I'd say the biggest thing people don't talk about is traffic. it exceeded my expectations. Worth doing your research before committing.
15 upvotes
Victoria P.
As someone who grew up here, it's improved dramatically in recent years. A lot has changed in the past few years though. pet-friendliness used to be much growing but now it's better than expected.
14 upvotes
Samuel
OK so I've been meaning to write this for a while. I moved here 2 years ago from Nashville and here's my honest breakdown:
Housing: Older homes are where the value is. We're paying /mo for a 3-bed in Pine Hills. It's better than expected for what you get.
Jobs: The market is growing right now, especially in finance. If you're in tech you might struggle.
People: Generally decent. It took about 18 months to build a solid friend group.
Food: hit or miss. Tons of options if you like Vietnamese.
Feel free to reach out with questions..
13 upvotes
Ezekiel Parker
Real talk - this place is not for everyone, and I think that's OK.
If you value weather, you'll love it. The nightlife is genuinely excellent and I've found it's improved dramatically in recent years. My neighborhood (Westside) is growing and I feel safe walking around at night.
But if you're coming from Tampa, be prepared for the culture shock. cost of living is completely different here. And Nightlife is limited.
My advice would be to visit for at least a week before committing. Rent first, don't buy. And explore multiple neighborhoods - they're all different.
13 upvotes
Leo Walker
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a project manager, 28, moved here 2 years ago from New York. I've lived in Greenfield and Meadowbrook, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Cost of living is very reasonable
2. Great outdoor activities nearby
3. Decent public transit for the size
4. The people are generally better than expected - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Road conditions need improvement
2. Bugs and humidity in summer
3. The school system situation is competitive and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Greenfield: Great for couples. average vibes, walkable.
- Meadowbrook: More affordable, family-friendly.
**Neighborhoods I'd avoid:**
- Without naming names, stay away from areas east of downtown until you know the city better.
**Cost comparison:**
Coming from New York, everything felt better than expected. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are pricey. Gas is pricey. You can live comfortably on $80K-$70K here.
**Final verdict:**
It's not for everyone but it works for us.. It's not perfect - nowhere is - but for the price point and quality of life, it's hard to beat. DM me if you have specific questions.
13 upvotes
Wyatt Rogers
literally same
13 upvotes
Maria M.
been saying this for years
11 upvotes
Vivian Smith
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in Meadowbrook for 10 years. Moved from Pittsburgh for my partner's job. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is better than expected. We bought in 2024 at k and it's now worth about the same than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 4-bed in a safe area. It's gotten pricier but still beats the coasts.
**Employment:**
finance is strong here. tech is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are wild for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
I'm still on the fence after all this time. The outdoor scene is better than expected - we have beaches within easy driving distance. Dining has gotten so much better in the past few years.
**Schools (if relevant):**
Varies hugely by district. Meadowbrook schools are decent. If you have kids, this should be your number one factor in choosing a neighborhood.
**The Bad:**
I'd be lying if I said everything is great. Urban sprawl is real. Limited entertainment options. And traffic can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For retirees, I'd say this is a 8/10. No regrets on my end.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
10 upvotes
Kinsley Reed
hard disagree but ok
9 upvotes
Olivia Perez
I've been living here for 10 years and I'd say I love the pace of life here. The traffic is decent compared to other places I've lived. Overall Give it a chance - it might surprise you..
9 upvotes
Piper Lewis
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in West for 2 years. Moved from Tampa for school. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is challenging. We bought in 2015 at k and it's now worth up a bit than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 2-bed in a safe area. Buying is tough right now, renting is more reasonable.
**Employment:**
education is strong here. consulting is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are reasonable for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
I wouldn't want to live anywhere else right now. The outdoor scene is better than expected - we have biking trails within easy driving distance. Dining has gotten so much better in the past few years.
**Schools (if relevant):**
Varies hugely by district. West schools are decent. If you have kids, this should be your number one factor in choosing a neighborhood.
**The Bad:**
I'd be lying if I said everything is great. Not very walkable outside downtown. Property taxes are high. And healthcare can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For remote workers, I'd say this is a 6/10. Feel free to reach out with questions.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
8 upvotes
Sarah F.
Used to live on the Fairview side, now on the Lakewood side. Completely different vibe. I love the pace of life here.
8 upvotes
Aurora Cruz
If you're remote, this place is great for cost of living. the quality of life is solid. Internet is surprisingly good in most areas.
8 upvotes
Leah W.
noted, appreciate it
7 upvotes
Waylon Smith
hmm interesting perspective
6 upvotes
Theodore R.
thanks for sharing
5 upvotes
Claire
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a software engineer who relocated here from Baltimore about 4 years ago. The main reasons were a fresh start and cost of living.
Pros I've experienced:
- Low crime in most neighborhoods
- Active local events and festivals
- Diverse dining options
Cons that are real:
- Winters are long and cold
- Limited high-paying job options
Financially, we've found it solid compared to where we came from. Buying is tough right now, renting is more reasonable. Groceries are growing, gas is excellent.
Socially, it's not perfect but it works for me. It's not for everyone but it works for us..
3 upvotes
Benjamin
been saying this for years
3 upvotes
Timothy M.
Moved here from Nashville about 7 years ago. it's improved dramatically in recent years. Still getting used to walkability but Give it a chance - it might surprise you..
2 upvotes
Maverick White
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in Downtown for 8 years. Moved from Austin for a fresh start. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is improving. We bought in 2017 at k and it's now worth down slightly than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 1-bed in a safe area. The market is competitive but not impossible.
**Employment:**
hospitality is strong here. retail is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are affordable for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
it exceeded my expectations. The outdoor scene is surprisingly good - we have lakes within easy driving distance. Dining has gotten so much better in the past few years.
**Schools (if relevant):**
Varies hugely by district. Downtown schools are improving. If you have kids, this should be your number one factor in choosing a neighborhood.
**The Bad:**
I'd be lying if I said everything is great. Summers can be brutally hot. Nightlife is limited. And traffic can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For retirees, I'd say this is a 9/10. Your mileage may vary depending on what you're looking for.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
2 upvotes
austin_aiden
Came here for family and stayed because it's improved dramatically in recent years. The cost of living is honestly surprisingly good and I don't see that changing anytime soon.
2 upvotes
Brooklyn Martin
Gonna give a different perspective here since most replies seem hit or miss.
I've been here 8 years and it's exactly what I was looking for. The thing nobody mentions is pet-friendliness. It's competitive and it affects daily life more than you'd think.
That said, the community vibe is legit. And if you're into photography, this place is solid.
Neighborhood matters A LOT here. The Springfield side vs the Westside side are basically different cities. Make sure you visit both before deciding.
No regrets on my end..
1 upvotes
Skylar Ramos
Moved here from San Diego about 1 years ago. it's not perfect but it works for me. Still getting used to cultural scene but Happy to answer more specific questions..
0 upvotes
Emilia Turner
OK so I've been meaning to write this for a while. I moved here 11 years ago from Denver and here's my honest breakdown:
Housing: Older homes are where the value is. We're paying /mo for a 4-bed in North. It's decent for what you get.
Jobs: The market is established right now, especially in tech. If you're in healthcare you might struggle.
People: Generally surprisingly good. It took about 18 months to build a solid friend group.
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