Metro-Detroit Relocation Guide 2025

Metro Detroit Relocation Guide:  A comprehensive overview for prospective buyers and renters in 2025, covering key areas including vibrant Detroit neighborhoods, top-rated suburbs, school information, utility providers, and cost-of-living comparisons. 

 Detroit vs. suburbs: Renting versus buying in 2025

• Affordability: In early 2025, Detroit was one of the few major U.S. metro areas where buying a home was more cost-effective than renting. However, some analysis shows this trend is reversing, with renting becoming more affordable nationwide, including in Metro Detroit.

• Rental market: The rental market is growing, driven by young professionals and a growing workforce.

• Long-term investment: Most housing experts still recommend buying if you plan to stay long-term, citing the benefits of building equity and stable mortgage payments. Rents can increase each year, while a fixed-rate mortgage offers predictable housing costs. 

Top neighborhoods for different lifestyles

For families and high-quality schools

Many Metro Detroit families settle in the suburbs to access highly-rated public school systems and family-friendly amenities.

• Troy: A top-rated suburb with excellent public schools, abundant parks, and the high-end Somerset Collection mall.
• Northville: Known for its highly-rated schools, charming downtown, and family-friendly environment.
• Bloomfield Hills: An upscale suburb with nationally recognized public schools and an emphasis on educational innovation.
• Rochester/Rochester Hills: Offers a walkable downtown, numerous parks and trails, and top-tier schools.
• Grosse Pointe: A collection of upscale communities with a strong sense of community and excellent public schools. 

For young professionals and urban access

• Midtown (Detroit): The cultural and educational hub of the city, with museums, Wayne State University, and major medical centers. It is highly walkable and has a growing number of lofts and apartment buildings.
• Corktown (Detroit): Detroit's oldest neighborhood is attracting artists, tech workers, and entrepreneurs. It features a unique blend of historic architecture and new developments, including Ford's investment in Michigan Central Station.
• Ferndale: A vibrant and inclusive suburb with a walkable downtown known for its art scene, diverse dining, and nightlife. It is more affordable than neighboring Royal Oak and Birmingham.
• Royal Oak: A popular choice for its balance of suburban comfort and urban energy. It has a lively downtown with bars, restaurants, and shopping, along with strong schools.
• Brush Park (Detroit): A revitalized area near downtown offering modern condos, historic homes, and easy access to sports and entertainment venues. 

For affordable living and first-time buyers

• Hazel Park: An up-and-coming, budget-friendly suburb near Ferndale and Royal Oak, known for its revitalized dining scene.
• Redford Township: Offers affordable home prices, local parks, and a quiet, residential feel.
• Southfield: A diverse and practical choice with a wide range of housing options and a central location near major freeways and employment hubs.
• Madison Heights: This area offers one of the lowest costs of living in Metro Detroit and affordable housing options. 

Utilities

• Electricity and Natural Gas: DTE Energy is the primary provider for both services across much of Southeast Michigan. Consumers Energy is also a major provider in the state. You can compare alternative electric suppliers through the State of Michigan's Electric Choice program.
• Water and Sewer: The Great Lakes Water Authority (GLWA) is the wholesale provider, with service delivered locally by municipalities like the Detroit Water & Sewerage Department (DWSD).
• Internet and Cable: Major providers include Comcast Xfinity, AT&T Fiber, WOW!, and various smaller local and regional carriers. 

Amenities

• Arts and Culture: The Detroit Institute of Arts, Motown Museum, and the Detroit Opera House offer a rich cultural scene. The Fox Theatre and Fisher Theatre host major touring Broadway shows and concerts.
• Recreation and Parks: The Detroit RiverWalk offers scenic views and park space along the water. Belle Isle Park features an aquarium, conservatory, and beautiful grounds. The Metro Detroit area also has numerous smaller parks and lakes for outdoor activities.
• Shopping: High-end retail can be found at the Somerset Collection in Troy, while Twelve Oaks Mall in Novi offers a wide selection of stores. Downtown districts in Ferndale, Royal Oak, and Birmingham also offer unique local shops and boutiques.
• Sports: Detroit is a major sports city, home to the NFL's Lions (Ford Field), MLB's Tigers (Comerica Park), and NHL's Red Wings (Little Caesars Arena). 

Resources for your move

• Real Estate: For current listings, use national sites like Realtor.com and local realtors who specialize in the Metro Detroit market.
• Cost of Living: Salary.com and Payscale offer calculators to compare the cost of living in Metro Detroit versus other cities.
• School Ratings: Sites like Niche provide up-to-date grades and reviews for schools and districts throughout the region.