20 Cities Near Detroit, MI to Live in 2024

If you’re looking to live close to the Motor City without being engulfed in its hustle and bustle, you’re in luck. There is a wealth of cities near Detroit, each with its own Michigan charm and appeal. From the serene waterfronts of West Bloomfield to the bustling downtown of Royal Oak, the area surrounding Detroit offers diverse living environments suitable for various lifestyles.

We invite you to journey through these 20 cities near Detroit. We’ll highlight the pros and cons of each, so you can pinpoint the ideal rental for your needs.

All of the rental data included here comes from our internal database of rent estimates, which is available for download. Transit scores come from walkscore.com and census information comes directly from the U.S. Census website.

20 Cities Near Detroit, MI

1. Royal Oak

• Miles from downtown Detroit: 14.3 miles
• Commute time to Detroit via car: 14 minutes via I-75 S.
• Commute time to Detroit via public transport: 49 minutes via bus lines 461 and 4 Woodward
• Commute time to Detroit via bike: 1 hour and 19 minutes via Hamilton Avenue
• Average rent for a two-bedroom apartment: $1,810
• Population: 57,495
• Median household income: $92,799
• Walk score: 57
• Transit score: N/A
• Bike score: 53

Royal Oak is one of the many cities near Detroit, Michigan, that strikes a perfect balance of urban vibrancy and suburban tranquility. At the heart of Royal Oak lies Main Street, a bustling center brimming with dining options, such as the upscale bistro Café Muse, known for its creative American cuisine, or the cozy Comet Burgers for a more casual meal.

The city is also a hub of arts and culture., The annual Art of Fire show and the Royal Oak Music Theatre, for example, infuse the city with live entertainment throughout the year.

Royal Oak families appreciate the highly rated schools and parks, including Royal Oak Memorial Park, which offers ample green space for recreation and relaxation. While this city’s popularity translates to a higher cost of living than in some surrounding areas, many find the vibrant community life, excellent amenities, and proximity to Detroit's job market well worth the investment.

2. Ann Arbor

• Miles from downtown Detroit: 43.4 miles
• Commute time to Detroit via car: 45 minutes via M-14 E.
• Commute time to Detroit via public transport: 55 minutes via FlixBus 2550
• Commute time to Detroit via bike: 3 hours and 27 minutes via Plymouth Road
• Median rent for a two-bedroom apartment: $1,750
• Population: 119,875
• Median household income: $78,546
• Walk score: 52
• Transit score: 49
• Bike score: 71

Renowned as the home of the University of Michigan, Ann Arbor is not just a beacon of academic excellence but also a center for culture, arts, and innovation. The city's lively downtown is dotted with an array of bookstores, galleries, shops, and eateries like Zingerman's Delicatessen, a local treasure known for its gourmet foods and sandwiches.

The university’s presence infuses Ann Arbor with youthful energy. It fosters a community-wide passion for sports, education, and the arts that’s palpable year-round, evident in the numerous festivals and events.

The Matthaei Botanical Garden and Nichols Arboretum provide a natural oasis in the heart of the city, offering winding trails, lush gardens, and scenic views that call all nature lovers. Despite its relatively high cost of living, Ann Arbor compensates with its high-quality public schools and its diverse job opportunities.

3. Birmingham

• Miles from downtown Detroit: 19.5 miles
• Commute time to Detroit via car: 26 minutes via I-75 S. and Woodward Avenue
• Commute time to Detroit via public transport: 43 minutes via bus lines 461 and 4 Woodward
• Commute time to Detroit via bike: 1 hour and 52 minutes via Hamilton Avenue
• Average rent for a two-bedroom apartment: $2,940
• Population: 21,715
• Median household income: $151,566
• Walk score: 60
• Transit score: N/A
• Bike score: 47

Birmingham is one of the most celebrated upscale cities in metro Detroit. It’s known for its sophisticated charm, offering a downtown area that boasts high-end shopping, gourmet dining, and plenty of cultural venues. Walk along Maple Road, and you'll encounter a selection of fine boutiques and restaurants like Tallulah Wine Bar and Bistro, which is known for its exquisite dishes and extensive wine list.

Beyond its luxury amenities, Birmingham distinguishes itself with its commitment to excellence in public services and schools, making it an ideal location for families seeking top-notch education for their children. The city's parks and green spaces, including Shain Park, offer residents a serene escape with beautiful landscaping and community events.

4. Southfield

• Miles from downtown Detroit: 15.2 miles
• Commute time to Detroit via car: 18 minutes via M-10 S./John C. Lodge Freeway
• Commute time to Detroit via public transport: 52 minutes via bus lines 17 Eight Mile, 461, and 4 Woodward
• Commute time to Detroit via bike: 1 hour and 29 minutes via Hamilton Avenue
• Average rent for a two-bedroom apartment: $1,570
• Population: 75,431
• Median household income: $63,980
• Walk score: 34
• Transit score: N/A
• Bike score: 39

Southfield is another one of the prominent cities close to Detroit offering a blend of suburban comfort and urban convenience. Known for its striking contemporary skyline, Southfield is a major business hub that’s home to more than 100 Fortune 500 companies within its modern office centers. This economic vitality provides ample job opportunities in various sectors.

The city also offers a wealth of recreational and cultural amenities, including numerous parks, community centers, and one of the largest public libraries in the state. With its strategic location, Southfield residents enjoy easy access to Detroit’s metropolitan offerings while benefiting from the city's own rich array of services and attractions.

5. Troy

• Miles from downtown Detroit: 23.3 miles
• Commute time to Detroit via car: 28 minutes via I-75 S.
• Commute time to Detroit via public transport: 27 minutes via Wolverine Line
• Commute time to Detroit via bike: 1 hour and 59 minutes via Livernois Road
• Median rent for a two-bedroom apartment: $1,739
• Population: 87,201
• Median household income: $115,639
• Walk score: 29
• Transit score: N/A
• Bike score: 41

Troy is a dynamic city close to Detroit, Michigan, that’s celebrated for its robust economy, exceptional schools, and thriving retail landscape. As one of the largest shopping districts in the state, Troy is home to the Somerset Collection, a luxury shopping mall that features a range of high-end retailers and dining options. The city's commitment to education is also evident in its nationally recognized public schools.

Beyond commerce and education, Troy boasts a range of recreational facilities, including the Troy Family Aquatic Center and numerous well-maintained parks. With its blend of economic prosperity, educational excellence, and local amenities, Troy is an attractive option for those looking for a city close to Detroit.

6. Westland

• Miles from downtown Detroit: 29 miles
• Commute time to Detroit via car: 30 minutes via I-96
• Commute time to Detroit via public transport: 1 hour and 23 minutes via bus lines 210, 261, and 5 Van Dyke-Lafayette
• Commute time to Detroit via bike: 1 hour and 46 minutes via W. Warren Avenue
• Average rent for a two-bedroom apartment: $1,370
• Population: 84,037
• Median household income: $59,930
• Walk score: 40
• Transit score: N/A
• Bike score: 45

If you’re looking for cities around Detroit that have a family-friendly atmosphere, Westland is a great choice. It’s home to a variety of parks and recreational facilities, including Hines Park, a sprawling green space for everything from biking to winter sports. The city has plenty of annual events as well, like the Westland Blues, Brews, and Barbecue bash, which showcases local talent and cuisine.

Westland's retail scene is anchored by the Westland Shopping Center, which provides a range of shopping and dining options. With its affordable cost of living, diverse housing stock, and strong educational resources, Westland is an appealing choice for families seeking a quieter residential lifestyle.

7. Farmington Hills

• Miles from downtown Detroit: 23 miles
• Commute time to Detroit via car: 25 minutes via M-10 S./John C. Lodge Freeway
• Commute time to Detroit via public transport: 1 hour and 28 minutes via bus lines 740, 461, and 4 Woodward
• Commute time to Detroit via bike: 2 hours and 9 minutes via W. Grand River Avenue
• Median rent for a two-bedroom apartment: $1,580
• Population: 82,737
• Median household income: $101,728
• Walk score: 25
• Transit score: N/A
• Bike score: 36

Farmington Hills is often recognized as one of the premier cities close to Detroit, Michigan, distinguished by its lush landscapes, top-tier educational institutions, and natural beauty. Heritage Park and the Farmington Hills Nature Center offer residents immersive outdoor experiences, while the Zekelman Holocaust Center provides a profound cultural and educational opportunity.

The local economy is buoyed by a diverse range of businesses, from small startups to multinational corporations, offering ample employment opportunities for all. Farmington Hills also boasts a rich community life, hosting events like the annual Founders Festival, which celebrates local history and community spirit. With its safe neighborhoods, excellent schools, and proximity to Detroit, Farmington Hills is an ideal location for just about anyone.

8. Sterling Heights

• Miles from downtown Detroit: 22.9 miles
• Commute time to Detroit via car: 32 minutes via Van Dyke Avenue and I-75 S.
• Commute time to Detroit via public transport: 1 hour and 47 minutes via bus lines 510 and 5 Van Dyke-Lafayette
• Commute time to Detroit via bike: 2 hours and 13 minutes via E. Jefferson Avenue
• Median rent for a two-bedroom apartment: $1,249
• Population: 132,567
• Median household income: $75,381
• Walk score: 33
• Transit score: N/A
• Bike score: 37

As one of the largest towns near Detroit, Michigan, Sterling Heights is renowned for its diverse cultural festivals and robust manufacturing sector. Dodge Park and the Sterling Heights Nature Center are central hubs for family activities and outdoor recreation, while the Sterlingfest Art and Music Fair brings the town together for music, art, and food from around the world.

The automotive industry significantly supports this economy, and several major manufacturing plants provide a stable job market for residents. With its blend of suburban peace and economic vitality, Sterling Heights offers a unique living experience near Detroit.

9. Livonia

• Miles from downtown Detroit: 19.4 miles
• Commute time to Detroit via car: 23 minutes via I-96 Express/Jeffries Freeway and I-96 E.
• Commute time to Detroit via public transport: 1 hour and 23 minutes via bus lines 38 Plymouth and 4 Woodward
• Commute time to Detroit via bike: 1 hour and 33 minutes via Plymouth Road and W. Chicago
• Average rent for a two-bedroom apartment: $1,460
• Population: 93,779
• Median household income: $92,458
• Walk score: 36
• Transit score: N/A
• Bike score: 45

Livonia has some of the most well-established neighborhoods among the cities surrounding Detroit, catering to those seeking a balanced suburban lifestyle with easy access to the city. Livonia's recreational offerings include the Kirksey Recreation Center and parks like Rotary Park. The Livonia Marketplace is an incredibly popular destination for open-air shopping and dining.

With a strong educational system and a diverse economic base, Livonia is an attractive option for both professionals and families.

10. Warren

• Miles from downtown Detroit: 19.7 miles
• Commute time to Detroit via car: 26 minutes via I-696 W. and I-75 S.
• Commute time to Detroit via public transport: 54 minutes via bus lines 17 Eight Mile, 563, and 16 Dexter
• Commute time to Detroit via bike: 1 hour and 42 minutes via E. Jefferson Avenue
• Average rent for a two-bedroom apartment: $1,300
• Population: 137,107
• Median household income: $61,633
• Walk score: 44
• Transit score: N/A
• Bike score: 44

Warren is one of the largest cities outside of Detroit and an important part of Michigan's industrial heritage. It is renowned for its role in the automotive and defense industries and hosts major employers like the General Motors Technical Center and the U.S. Army Detroit Arsenal.

Beyond its industrial roots, Warren offers residents a diverse array of recreational and cultural amenities. The Warren Public Library and the City Square Ice Rink are popular gathering spots, offering the benefits of suburban living with strong ties to the metropolitan center.

11. Dearborn

• Miles from downtown Detroit: 8.5 miles
• Commute time to Detroit via car: 13 minutes via I-94 E.
• Commute time to Detroit via public transport: 29 minutes via Wolverine Line
• Commute time to Detroit via bike: 40 minutes via Michigan Avenue
• Average rent for a two-bedroom apartment: $1,610
• Population: 107,710
• Median household income: $64,600
• Walk score: 58
• Transit score: N/A
• Bike score: 47

Dearborn is one of the many great working towns near Detroit. It is home to the Henry Ford Museum and Greenfield Village, inviting exploration into America's industrial and social history. Dearborn is home a thriving Middle Eastern community, offering an array of authentic culinary experiences and cultural events.

Located here is the headquarters of Ford Motor Company, one of the largest employers in Detroit, which contributes to Dearborn’s robust economy and a strong job market. The city's schools are also well regarded, adding to its appeal for families.

12. West Bloomfield

• Miles from downtown Detroit: 27.5 miles
• Commute time to Detroit via car: 37 minutes via M-10 S.
• Commute time to Detroit via public transport: 1 hour and 21 minutes via bus lines 405, 462, and 4 Woodward
• Commute time to Detroit via bike: 2 hours and 28 minutes via W. Grand River Avenue
• Average rent for a two-bedroom apartment: N/A
• Population: 65,206
• Median household income: $121,282
• Walk score: N/A
• Transit score: N/A
• Bike score: N/A

If you’re looking for affluent towns around Detroit, look no further than West Bloomfield. The city is renowned for its rolling hills and abundance of lakes, which provide a serene backdrop for residents. You’ll find upscale homes, excellent public schools, and an array of recreational activities here, making it a desirable location for families and professionals alike.

The West Bloomfield Trail offers outdoor enthusiasts miles of scenic paths for walking and biking, while the township's parks and recreation department provides a wide range of programs and events for all ages.

West Bloomfield maintains a high quality of life due to its focus on community well-being and environmental preservation. The town also boasts a diverse culinary scene, with restaurants like Prime29 Steakhouse and Shangri-La offering exquisite dining experiences.

13. Rochester Hills

• Miles from downtown Detroit: 27.8 miles
• Commute time to Detroit via car: 35 minutes via I-75 S.
• Commute time to Detroit via public transport: 3 hours and 2 minutes via bus lines 790, 462, and 4 Woodward
• Commute time to Detroit via bike: 2 hours and 17 minutes via S. Livernois Road
• Average rent for a two-bedroom apartment: $1,730
• Population: 75,936
• Median household income: $115,968
• Walk score: 20
• Transit score: N/A
• Bike score: 32

Rochester Hills lies in the northeastern reaches of the metropolitan Detroit area and has long been celebrated for its well-preserved natural spaces and top-ranked public schools. The Paint Creek Trail was one of Michigan's first rail-to-trail projects, offering residents miles of natural beauty for biking, hiking, and leisurely strolls.

Here, you’ll find a variety of cultural and community events throughout the year, including the Festival of the Hills, a spectacular fireworks show, and the Heritage Days at the Rochester Hills Museum at Van Hoosen Farm, celebrating the city's rich history. Overall, Rochester Hills is a prime living destination within the Detroit metropolitan area.

14. Novi

• Miles from downtown Detroit: 28.6 miles
• Commute time to Detroit via car: 31 minutes via I-96 E.
• Commute time to Detroit via public transport: 1 hour and 38 minutes via bus lines 740, 461, and 4 Woodward
• Commute time to Detroit via bike: 2 hours and 31 minutes via W. Grand River Avenue
• Average rent for a two-bedroom apartment: $2,340
• Population: 66,732
• Median household income: $110,588
• Walk score: 19
• Transit score: N/A
• Bike score: 45

Novi is another city that’s strategically located on the outskirts of the metropolitan Detroit area. It has become a hub for shopping and entertainment, with the Twelve Oaks Mall at its center, offering a wide range of retail stores, dining options, and entertainment venues.

The city also boasts a diverse and thriving job market, supported by industries ranging from automotive to technology and healthcare. The local public schools are highly regarded, adding to Novi’s appeal for young families.

15. Hamtramck

• Miles from downtown Detroit: 6.1 miles
• Commute time to Detroit via car: 12 minutes via I-75 S.
• Commute time to Detroit via public transport: 39 minutes via bus lines 38 Plymouth and 4 Woodward
• Commute time to Detroit via bike: 32 minutes via St. Aubin Street
• Average rent for a two-bedroom apartment: $1,250
• Population: 27,834
• Median household income: $39,648
• Walk score: 82
• Transit score: N/A
• Bike score: 54

You can find the diverse cultural enclave of Hamtramck in the heart of the Detroit metropolitan area. This unique city, entirely surrounded by Detroit, is celebrated for its eclectic mix of communities, including notable Polish, Bangladeshi, Pakistani, and Yemeni populations. Places like Polish Village Café and Yemen Café offer authentic culinary experiences, drawing both locals and visitors to savor the flavors of the world.

Hamtramck's dense, walkable streets and close-knit neighborhoods keep the community close, while local arts and culture are always visible in its murals, public art installations, and events like the Hamtramck Music Fest. As the nearest city to Detroit, Michigan, it’s an excellent choice for commuters.

16. Romulus

• Miles from downtown Detroit: 23.1 miles
• Commute time to Detroit via car: 29 minutes via I-94 E.
• Commute time to Detroit via public transport: 53 minutes via bus lines DAX, 5 Van Dyke-Lafayette, and 16 Dexter
• Commute time to Detroit via bike: 2 hours and 2 minutes via Wick Road
• Average rent for a two-bedroom apartment: $1,170
• Population: 25,082
• Median household income: $63,854
• Walk score: 16
• Transit score: N/A
• Bike score: 32

Romulus is a city just southwest of Detroit that offers a unique blend of accessibility and suburban comfort. Best known for being the home of the Detroit Metropolitan Airport and one of the cities close to Ann Arbor, Romulus acts as a gateway to the region, providing residents and businesses with unparalleled connectivity to national and international destinations.

Despite its proximity to the airport and bustling industrial activity, Romulus maintains a welcoming, community-oriented atmosphere, with various parks and recreational facilities like the Romulus Athletic Center. The city also takes pride in its educational offerings, with public schools committed to fostering academic excellence and personal growth.

17. Melvindale

• Miles from downtown Detroit: 9.8 miles
• Commute time to Detroit via car: 15 minutes via I-75 N.
• Commute time to Detroit via public transport: 1 hour and 16 minutes via bus lines 19 Fort, 16 Dexter, and 5 Van Dyke-Lafayette
• Commute time to Detroit via bike: 47 minutes via Vernor Highway
• Average rent for a two-bedroom apartment: $1,090
• Population: 12,632
• Median household income: $38,918
• Walk score: N/A
• Transit score: N/A
• Bike score: N/A

Melvindale is a small yet vibrant community within the greater Detroit area. Known as the "Little City With a Big Heart," Melvindale's close-knit community and family-friendly atmosphere make it an appealing choice for those seeking a quieter life with easy access to Detroit.

Despite its modest size, Melvindale has a diverse demographic and a variety of dining and shopping options. Its proximity to major industrial and manufacturing hubs benefits the local economy, providing stable employment opportunities as well.

18. Lincoln Park

• Miles from downtown Detroit: 11 miles
• Commute time to Detroit via car: 15 minutes via I-75 N.
• Commute time to Detroit via public transport: 1 hour and 12 minutes via 19 Fort and 5 Van Dyke-Lafayette
• Commute time to Detroit via bike: 1 hour and 2 minutes via W. Jefferson Avenue
• Average rent for a two-bedroom apartment: $1,100
• Population: 39,371
• Median household income: $55,777
• Walk score: 65
• Transit score: N/A
• Bike score: 50

Lincoln Park lies just south of Detroit and is the embodiment of a close-knit, working-class community. This city offers an affordable cost of living without sacrificing connectivity to the greater Detroit area. With well-maintained public parks, such as Council Point Park, residents have plenty of green spaces for relaxation and recreation.

Fort Street, the city's main thoroughfare, is lined with various local businesses, and the commitment to public services and safety is evident throughout.

19. Roseville

• Miles from downtown Detroit: 18.2 miles
• Commute time to Detroit via car: 22 minutes via I-94 W.
• Commute time to Detroit via public transport: 58 minutes via bus lines 563 and 16 Dexter
• Commute time to Detroit via bike: 1 hour and 31 minutes via E. Jefferson Avenue
• Average rent for a two-bedroom apartment: $1,120
• Population: 46,812
• Median household income: $57,274
• Walk score: 47
• Transit score: N/A
• Bike score: 45

Just northeast of Detroit, Roseville is a city with affordable housing, a diverse community, and plenty of neighborhood improvement initiatives. Roseville's Veterans Memorial Park and Huron Park provide residents with ample outdoor spaces for leisure and family activities, while the Macomb Mall offers a wide range of shopping and dining options.

The city also benefits from its proximity to major roadways and the center of Detroit, making it an attractive location for commuters looking for a more laid-back lifestyle without straying too far from urban employment opportunities.

20. Hazel Park

• Miles from downtown Detroit: 10.8 miles
• Commute time to Detroit via car: 15 minutes via I-75 S.
• Commute time to Detroit via public transport: 44 minutes via bus lines 17 Eight Mile and 4 Woodward
• Commute time to Detroit via bike: 1 hour and 5 minutes via Joseph Campau Avenue
• Average rent for a two-bedroom apartment: $1,370
• Population: 14,838
• Median household income: $59,576
• Walk score: N/A
• Transit score: N/A
• Bike score: N/A

Hazel Park is often referred to as "The Friendly City” and has long attracted attention for its affordable housing market, making it a prime destination for first-time homebuyers and young professionals. Hazel Park's revitalization efforts have led to the emergence of new restaurants, cafes, and boutiques, infusing the city with a renewed sense of energy and potential.

Here, you’ll find plenty of green spaces like Green Acres Park. And with a small-town vibe, a strategic location, and an evolving landscape, it’s an attractive option for those looking to plant roots near Detroit.

Make Your Move: Start Apartment Hunting with Apartment List

Many can agree that Detroit living up to its name as the “Comeback City” and will become a prime spot for renters in the next decade. With so many cities near Detroit, Michigan, to choose from — from the vibrant nightlife of Royal Oak to the serene, family-friendly atmosphere of Farmington Hills — there's a perfect place for everyone to call home.

Ready to find the perfect place to live? Take Apartment List's personalized quiz to discover which of these cities near Detroit matches your lifestyle and preferences. With us, you’ll spend 5 minutes and save 50 hours searching.