20 Cities Near Detroit, MI to Live in 2025

These 20 cities near Detroit each offer unique amenities to suit your needs. Explore commute times, rents, and community highlights in this comprehensive guide.

If you want urban energy close to Detroit, start with Royal Oak (~14 mi) and Hazel Park (~10 mi) for nightlife and short commutes. For campus culture and strong transit to Detroit, Ann Arbor (~43 mi, Amtrak Wolverine) is a standout. For high-end shopping and schools, look at Birmingham, Troy, Novi, and Rochester Hills. And if it’s value you’re after, Warren, Roseville, Lincoln Park, Romulus, and Ecorse are all worth a look.

Detroit has many great surrounding cities, but we’ve narrowed our list down to the top 20 that really stand out. We’ll highlight the pros and cons of each city, so you can pinpoint the ideal rental for your needs.

A Note About Data

All rental data is sourced from Apartment List (2025 estimates). Walk, bike, and transit scores are provided by Walk Score. Cost-of-living figures are based on Sterling’s Best Places index, benchmarked against Detroit’s overall cost-of-living score (91.8). Commute times reflect typical rush hour traffic (8:00 a.m. to 9:30 a.m.) using the most direct routes. Median household income and population figures come from the U.S. Census Bureau.

The Best 20 Cities Near Detroit, MI

Top Cities Near Detroit, Michigan (Quick Comparison)

Top Cities Near Detroit by Distance

1. Hamtramck

• Miles from Downtown Detroit: 5.5 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: $1,300
• Population: 28,433
• Median household income: $40,103
• Cost of Living Index: 91.8 (Detroit = 91.8)
• Walk score: 82
• Transit score: N/A
• Bike score: 54
• Unique features: Diverse food scene (Polish Village Café, Yemen Café), murals, music festivals
• Who will love it: Foodies, renters wanting walkability and culture
• Who should skip it: Those needing more space, quiet neighborhoods

Is Hamtramck a Good Place to Live Near Detroit?

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 thriving, 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.

2. Dearborn

• Miles from Downtown Detroit: 8.6 miles
• Commute time to Detroit via car: 14 minutes via I-94 E.
• Commute time to Detroit via public transport: 29 minutes via Wolverine from Dearborn Station
• Commute time to Detroit via bike: 39 minutes via Michigan Ave
• Average rent for a two-bedroom apartment: $1,769
• Population: 109,976
• Median household income: $59,786
• Cost of Living Index: 91.8 (Detroit = 91.8)
• Walk score: 58
• Transit score: N/A
• Bike score: 47
• Unique features: Henry Ford Museum and Greenfield Village, thriving Middle Eastern community, Ford Motor HQ
• Who will love it: History buffs, food lovers, renters wanting cultural vibrancy
• Who should skip it: Those looking for low-cost housing

Is Dearborn a Good Place to Live Near Detroit?

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 to 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.

3. Melvindale

• Miles from Downtown Detroit: 9.5 miles
• Commute time to Detroit via car: 20 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: $1,138
• Population: 12,851
• Median household income: $41,356
• Cost of Living Index: 91.8 (Detroit = 91.8)
• Walk score: 65
• Transit score: N/A
• Bike score: 52
• Unique features: Known as the Little City with a Big Heart, small-town feel, close-knit neighborhoods
• Who will love it: Families wanting affordability, renters seeking a quieter pace
• Who should skip it: Those wanting nightlife or lots of amenities

Is Melvindale a Good Place to Live Near Detroit?

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.

4. Hazel Park

• Miles from Downtown Detroit: 10.2 miles
• Commute time to Detroit via car: 16 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: $1,783
• Population: 14,983
• Median household income: $62,878
• Cost of Living Index: 104.9 (Detroit = 91.8)
• Walk score: 87
• Transit score: N/A
• Bike score: 56
• Unique features: Revitalized dining scene, Green Acres Park, “Friendly City” vibe
• Who will love it: Young professionals, first-time renters, budget-conscious commuters
• Who should skip it: Those seeking luxury housing

Is Hazel Park a Good Place to Live Near Detroit?

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, cafés, 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.

5. Lincoln Park

• Miles from Downtown Detroit: 10.6 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: $1,123
• Population: 40,245
• Median household income: $57,183
• Cost of Living Index: 91.8 (Detroit = 91.8)
• Walk score: 60
• Transit score: N/A
• Bike score: 50
• Unique features: Council Point Park, working-class roots, affordable housing
• Who will love it: Families, renters on a budget, commuters needing quick highway access
• Who should skip it: Renters looking for walkable nightlife or upscale amenities

Is Lincoln Park a Good Place to Live Near Detroit?

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.

6. Ecorse

• Miles from Downtown Detroit: 11.2 miles
• Commute time to Detroit via car: 22 minutes via I-75 N.
• Commute time to Detroit via public transport: 1 hour and 24 minutes via bus lines 124, 19, and 16
• Commute time to Detroit via bike: 55 minutes via W. Jefferson Ave
• Average rent for a two-bedroom apartment: $900
• Population: 9,305
• Median household income: $45,082
• Cost of Living Index: 91.8 (Detroit = 91.8)
• Walk score: 54
• Transit score: N/A
• Bike score: 53
• Unique features: Affordable housing, Detroit River waterfront views, strong community pride
• Who will love it: Budget-conscious renters, those wanting river access
• Who should skip it: Luxury-seekers, renters needing lots of amenities

Is Ecorse a Good Place to Live Near Detroit?

Ecorse is a small riverside community just southwest of Detroit, known for its affordable housing and strong neighborhood pride. Its location along the Detroit River provides residents with scenic waterfront views and easy access to outdoor recreation. With local parks, walkable streets, and a tradition of working-class resilience, Ecorse offers a tight-knit atmosphere at a budget-friendly cost.

While it doesn’t have the retail or nightlife of larger suburbs, its proximity to Detroit and community-focused character make it an appealing option for renters seeking value and simplicity.

7. Royal Oak

• Miles from Downtown Detroit: 13.7 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 18 minutes via Cass Avenue
• Average rent for a two-bedroom apartment: $1,737
• Population: 58,211
• Median household income: $95,182
• Cost of Living Index: 104.9 (Detroit = 91.8)
• Walk score: 57
• Transit score: N/A
• Bike score: 53
• Unique features: Main St. dining, Royal Oak Music Theatre, Art of Fire
• Who will love it: Young professionals, nightlife lovers
• Who should skip it: Renters on tight budgets

Is Royal Oak a Good Place to Live Near Detroit?

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.

8. Southfield

• Miles from Downtown Detroit: 14.7 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 26 minutes via Cass Avenue
• Average rent for a two-bedroom apartment: $1,788
• Population: 76,618
• Median household income: $66,815
• Cost of Living Index: 104.9 (Detroit = 91.8)
• Walk score: 34
• Transit score: N/A
• Bike score: 39
• Unique features: Fortune 500 hub, huge library, skyline views
• Who will love it: Professionals, commuters
• Who should skip it: Those who want walkability

Is Southfield a Good Place to Live Near Detroit?

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.

9. Roseville

• Miles from Downtown Detroit: 17.6 miles
• Commute time to Detroit via car: 26 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 33 minutes via E. Jefferson Avenue
• Average rent for a two-bedroom apartment: $1,172
• Population: 47,710
• Median household income: $61,222
• Cost of Living Index: 97.9 (Detroit = 91.8)
• Walk score: 47
• Transit score: N/A
• Bike score: 45
• Unique features: Macomb Mall, Veterans Memorial Park, affordable housing
• Who will love it: Budget-conscious renters, commuters
• Who should skip it: Renters seeking nightlife or luxury

Is Roseville a Good Place to Live Near Detroit?

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.

10. Livonia

• Miles from Downtown Detroit: 19.1 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: $1,580
• Population: 95,535
• Median household income: $98,834
• Cost of Living Index: 91.8 (Detroit = 91.8)
• Walk score: 36
• Transit score: N/A
• Bike score: 45
• Unique features: Kirksey Rec Center, Rotary Park, strong schools
• Who will love it: Families, long-term renters
• Who should skip it: Singles seeking nightlife

Is Livonia a Good Place to Live Near Detroit?

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.

11. Birmingham

• Miles from Downtown Detroit: 19.6 miles
• Commute time to Detroit via car: 23 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 Cass Avenue
• Average rent for a two-bedroom apartment: $3,125
• Population: 21,813
• Median household income: $153,125
• Cost of Living Index: 104.9 (Detroit = 91.8)
• Walk score: 60
• Transit score: N/A
• Bike score: 47
• Unique features: Maple Rd shopping/dining, upscale boutiques, excellent public services
• Who will love it: Professionals, luxury renters, families seeking top schools
• Who should skip it: Budget renters

Is Birmingham a Good Place to Live Near Detroit?

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.

12. Warren

• Miles from Downtown Detroit: 19.4 miles
• Commute time to Detroit via car: 25 minutes via I-696 W. and I-75 S.
• Commute time to Detroit via public transport: 39 minutes via bus No. 530
• Commute time to Detroit via bike: 1 hour and 26 minutes via Sherwood Avenue
• Average rent for a two-bedroom apartment: $1,276
• Population: 139,387
• Median household income: $56,281
• Cost of Living Index: 97.9 (Detroit = 91.8)
• Walk score: 44
• Transit score: N/A
• Bike score: 44
• Unique features: GM Tech Center, U.S. Army Arsenal, City Square Ice Rink
• Who will love it: Industrial workers, commuters
• Who should skip it: Renters seeking upscale housing

Is Warren a Good Place to Live Near Detroit?

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.

13. Sterling Heights

• Miles from Downtown Detroit: 22.9 miles
• Commute time to Detroit via car: 34 minutes via 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: 1 hour and 51 minutes via Ryan Road
• Average rent for a two-bedroom apartment: $1,556
• Population: 134,346
• Median household income: $81,102
• Cost of Living Index: 97.9 (Detroit = 91.8)
• Walk score: 33
• Transit score: N/A
• Bike score: 37
• Unique features: Sterlingfest music/art fair, Dodge Park, strong manufacturing base
• Who will love it: Families, renters in manufacturing
• Who should skip it: Renters who want nightlife

Is Sterling Heights a Good Place to Live Near Detroit?

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.

14. Farmington Hills

• Miles from Downtown Detroit: 23.3 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 8 minutes via W. Grand River Avenue
• Average rent for a two-bedroom apartment: $2,074
• Population: 83,986
• Median household income: $104,701
• Cost of Living Index: 104.9 (Detroit = 91.8)
• Walk score: 25
• Transit score: N/A
• Bike score: 36
• Unique features: Heritage Park, Zekelman Holocaust Center, Founders Festival
• Who will love it: Families, renters wanting green space
• Who should skip it: Renters seeking nightlife

Is Farmington Hills a Good Place to Live Near Detroit?

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.

15. 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 Michigan Avenue
• Average rent for a two-bedroom apartment: $1,060
• Population: 25,178
• Median household income: $72,235
• Cost of Living Index: 91.8 (Detroit = 91.8)
• Walk score: 16
• Transit score: N/A
• Bike score: 32
• Unique features: DTW Airport, Romulus Athletic Center, suburban-industrial mix
• Who will love it: Airport workers, frequent travelers
• Who should skip it: Renters who want a quiet, park-heavy suburb

Is Romulus a Good Place to Live Near Detroit?

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.

16. Troy

• Miles from Downtown Detroit: 23.7 miles
• Commute time to Detroit via car: 28 minutes via I-75 S.
• Commute time to Detroit via public transport: 54 minutes via Wolverine Line
• Commute time to Detroit via bike: 1 hour and 59 minutes via Livernois Road
• Average rent for a two-bedroom apartment: $1,712
• Population: 87,294
• Median household income: $118,720
• Cost of Living Index: 104.9 (Detroit = 91.8)
• Walk score: 29
• Transit score: N/A
• Bike score: 41
• Unique features: Somerset Collection mall, top-tier schools, family rec centers
• Who will love it: Families, professionals
• Who should skip it: Budget renters

Is Troy a Good Place to Live Near Detroit?

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.

17. Rochester Hills

• Miles from Downtown Detroit: 27.6 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: $1,818
• Population: 76,300
• Median household income: $127,505
• Cost of Living Index: 104.9 (Detroit = 91.8)
• Walk score: 20
• Transit score: N/A
• Bike score: 32
• Unique features: Paint Creek Trail, Festival of the Hills, strong schools
• Who will love it: Families, nature lovers
• Who should skip it: Renters needing quick commutes

Is Rochester Hills a Good Place to Live Near Detroit?

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.

18. Novi

• Miles from Downtown Detroit: 28.8 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: $1,865
• Population: 66,243
• Median household income: $109,092
• Cost of Living Index: 104.9 (Detroit = 91.8)
• Walk score: 19
• Transit score: N/A
• Bike score: 45
• Unique features: Twelve Oaks Mall, diverse job market, strong schools
• Who will love it: Families, shoppers, professionals
• Who should skip it: Renters on a strict budget

Is Novi a Good Place to Live Near Detroit?

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.

19. Westland

• Miles from Downtown Detroit: 26.1 miles
• Commute time to Detroit via car: 30 minutes via I-96 E.
• 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: $1,402
• Population: 85,420
• Median household income: $61,390
• Cost of Living Index: 91.8 (Detroit = 91.8)
• Walk score: 40
• Transit score: N/A
• Bike score: 45
• Unique features: Hines Park, Westland Shopping Center, Blues and BBQ festival
• Who will love it: Families, renters wanting affordability and space
• Who should skip it: Those wanting short commutes

Is Westland a Good Place to Live Near Detroit?

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.

20. 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
• Average rent for a two-bedroom apartment: $2,308
• Population: 123,851
• Median household income: $80,603* Cost of Living Index: 105.5 (Detroit = 91.8)
• Walk score: 52
• Transit score: 49
• Bike score: 71
• Unique features: University of Michigan, Zingerman’s Deli, Nichols Arboretum
• Who Will Love It: Students, professionals, renters seeking culture and education
• Who Should Skip It: Budget renters

Is Ann Arbor a Good Place to Live Near Detroit?

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.

Choose Your Neighborhood Based on Lifestyle

Make Your Move: Start Apartment Hunting with Apartment List

Many can agree that Detroit is 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 the personalized Apartment List quiz to discover which of these cities near Detroit matches your lifestyle and preferences. With us, you’ll spend five minutes and save 50 hours searching.

FAQs About Living Near Detroit

What is the cheapest city near Detroit to rent in?

Ecorse, Melvindale, and Romulus often have the lowest two-bedroom rents under $1,150 per month (Apartment List, 2025). These cities offer affordability but come with longer commutes or fewer upscale amenities.

Which Detroit suburb is best for young professionals?

Royal Oak and Hazel Park are the most popular choices, thanks to walkable downtowns, nightlife, and easy freeway access.

What is the most family-friendly city near Detroit?

Livonia, Farmington Hills, and Troy consistently rank high for families due to strong schools, parks, and safe neighborhoods. Livonia and Farmington Hills are particularly popular for long-term renters.

What is the most upscale Detroit suburb?

Birmingham is known for luxury living, high-end shopping, and excellent public services. It has the highest average rent in the metro area ($3,125 for a two-bedroom).

Which city near Detroit has the best walkability?

Hamtramck (walk score 82) and Royal Oak (walk score 57) are the most walkable options. Both offer vibrant local dining, arts, and cultural scenes that appeal to renters who prefer to leave the car at home.