Detroit, MI
Population 636,644 · Michigan
About Detroit, MI
Detroit is a major city located in Michigan with a population of 636,644 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $39,575 per year, which is 47% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 35.1 years is notably younger the US median age of 38.9 years, indicating a younger, often more dynamic population base.
Housing Market Overview
The housing market in Detroit features a median home value of $76,800, which is 69% below the national median of $244,900. This makes Detroit one of the more affordable markets in the country, potentially attractive for first-time homebuyers. Median monthly rent is $1,034, 11% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 326,065 total housing units, 50% are owner-occupied (125,927 units) and 50% are renter-occupied (127,280 units). The higher proportion of renters may reflect a transient population, younger demographics, or high housing costs relative to income.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Detroit shows an unemployment rate of 14.1%, which is significantly above the national rate of 3.7%, suggesting economic challenges in the area. The poverty rate stands at 31.5%, above the national average of 12.4%. Workers in Detroit have an average one-way commute time of 25.4 minutes.
Education & Demographics
17.6% of Detroit residents aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher, compared to the national average of 33.7%. The lower educational attainment rate may reflect the area's industry mix, with more employment in trades, manufacturing, or agricultural sectors. The community's demographic composition includes 5.5% White, 1.5% Hispanic or Latino, 0.9% Black or African American, and 1.3% Asian residents, with 6.0% of the population being foreign-born.
How Detroit Ranks in Michigan
Cost of Living in Detroit, MI
Compared to national averages, Detroit has a median household income of $39,575 (47% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $76,800, which is 69% below the national median. Monthly rent at $1,034 is 11% below the US average of $1,163. Within Michigan, Detroit's income is 40% below the state average of $66,017, and home values are 58% below the state median of $183,391.
Why Live in Detroit, MI?
Detroit offers affordable housing with a median home value of $76,800, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $1,034/month.
Potential considerations include median household income ($39,575) that falls below the national average. However, as a major city, Detroit provides access to a wide range of amenities and services.
Detroit has a population of 636,644 with a median age of 35.1 years. Compare Detroit with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Michigan.
Similar Cities Near Detroit
Cities in Michigan with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Grand Rapids | 197,768 | $65,526 | $225,500 | Compare |
| Warren | 138,128 | $63,741 | $181,900 | Compare |
| Sterling Heights | 133,473 | $78,429 | $260,700 | Compare |
| Ann Arbor | 121,179 | $81,089 | $435,100 | Compare |
| Lansing | 112,546 | $52,170 | $119,400 | Compare |
| Dearborn | 107,846 | $65,192 | $205,900 | Compare |
| Livonia | 94,058 | $96,317 | $265,300 | Compare |
| Troy | 87,307 | $119,299 | $396,800 | Compare |
Demographics
Racial & Ethnic Composition
Economy & Education
Housing
Other Cities in Michigan
Data source: US Census Bureau ACS 5-Year Estimates. Last updated: 2026-04-05.
Compare Detroit With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Detroit
What is the population of Detroit, MI?
The population of Detroit, MI is 636,644 according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey estimates. This makes it a major city in Michigan.
What is the median household income in Detroit?
The median household income in Detroit, MI is $39,575 per year, which is 47% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Detroit?
The median home value in Detroit, MI is $76,800, which is 69% below the national median of $244,900. A significant portion of residents rent their homes.
What is the average rent in Detroit?
The median monthly rent in Detroit, MI is $1,034, which is 11% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Detroit?
The unemployment rate in Detroit, MI is 14.1%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is Detroit, MI a good place to live?
Detroit offers a moderate cost of living, affordable housing, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 636,644 and a median age of 35.1, the city appeals to a broad range of residents.
How educated is Detroit, MI?
17.6% of residents in Detroit aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher, compared to the national average of 33.7%. The educational profile reflects the area's industry mix and employment landscape.
What is the cost of living in Detroit?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Detroit, MI: median home value is $76,800 (69% below national), median rent is $1,034/month, and median household income is $39,575. The home-value-to-income ratio is 1.9x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Detroit?
The poverty rate in Detroit, MI is 31.5%, compared to the national average of 12.4%. Residents and prospective movers should be aware of the economic challenges facing parts of this community.
How diverse is Detroit, MI?
Detroit's population is 5.5% White, 1.5% Hispanic or Latino, 0.9% Black or African American, 1.3% Asian, and 76.4% two or more races. 6.0% of residents are foreign-born.