Michigan is a state located in the Great Lakes region of the upper Midwestern United States. Its highest point is Mount Arvon, which is 1,979 feet above sea level. Interestingly, if you want to know where you can find a floating post office, it is only in Michigan.
If by any chance, you want to visit or perhaps move to Michigan, this article will take you on a trip through the most pleasant and safest cities in Michigan, including the most popular ones ranked by safety.
We have included some general information for every city on this list, such as population, cost of living, and median household income. Then, we go into detail on the crime rates of each city. For some of these cities, a reliable home security system will really come in handy. Hopefully, our data will help you make a decision.
Note: The numbers listed in parenthesis are the property (P) and violent (V) crime rates per 100,000 inhabitants. These are the basic criteria by which the cities are ranked.
What Are the Top 10 Safest Cities in Michigan?
South Lyon
(Property: 277; Violent: 50)
- Population: 11,829
- Median age: 42
- Median household income: $73,200
- Median house value: $327,900
Founded in 1832 and incorporated in 1930, South Lyon is a town that Detroit grew into, making it a part of its metro area. Despite being part of the Detroit metropolitan area, South Lyon is still isolated from the city.
You’ll find 11,829 people living in South Lyon. Their median household income is $73,200, their median age is 42 years, and a median home in the city is valued at $327,900. Can this city be your answer to the question, Which is the best city to live in Michigan?
South Lyon is a typical suburban city, with not many activities to offer. Perhaps the most interesting thing about this city is the Witch’s Hat Depot, a museum and gathering place for the local Historical Society. In this city, the unemployment rate is low, at 3.2%. The population growth of 16.5% in the last 20 years is tolerable, with the city managing to stay peaceful.
The low crime rates in South Lyon make it one of the best cities in Michigan for singles, young families, and those looking for a retirement spot. In 2019, there were only 33 property crimes (29 thefts, 4 burglaries) and 6 violent crimes (3 assaults, 3 rapes) in the city.
The cost of living, which is 17.4% higher than the national average, is the most common complaint among South Lyon residents, in addition to the urban decay that comes with living near Detroit.
Huntington Woods
(Property: 364; Violent: 0)
- Population: 6,193
- Median age: 43.4
- Median household income: $136,331
- Median house value: $367,400
If you’re wondering, What is the safest city in Michigan to live in? With no violent crimes reported in 2019, Huntington Woods might be the answer.
Huntington Woods is one of the places that got intertwined with Detroit and then became one of its suburbs. It is commonly referred to as the “City of Homes,” suggesting that its nature is primarily residential, with not much to do.
The City of Homes has a population of 6,193. The median household income is $136,331, while the median age is 43.4 years. The median home price in Huntington Woods is $367,400.
What can the safest city in Michigan offer its residents? Cities like this one are commonly referred to as “sleeper cities,” as they are mostly used by commuters who travel to the larger city—Detroit in this case—on a daily basis. However, there are still things to do here, such as visiting the Detroit Zoo, which is mostly located in Huntington Woods.
Those looking for work will find the unemployment rate of 3.7% especially attractive. To compare and remind ourselves, the national average is 5.9%. Since 2000, the population in Huntington Woods has grown by just 3.2%, so it is potentially the best place to live in Michigan for those who dislike crowds.
If you want to move here, you can take solace in the low crime rates reported in the city. In 2019, just 23 property crimes (14 thefts, 7 burglaries, 2 vehicle thefts) were reported. Moreover, there were no violent crimes reported that year.
However, living in Huntington Woods does come with some negatives. Urban decay, a common sight for the Detroit area, is a major complaint among residents. The cost of living is 22.1% higher than the US average, which is expected for one of the safest cities in America.
Clawson
(Property: 435; Violent: 59)
- Population: 11,707
- Median age: 40.6
- Median household income: $67,717
- Median house value: $201,700
Incorporated as a city in 1940, Clawson is yet another part of the Detroit metropolitan area. The city was named after one of the early settlers, John Lawson, whose last name was unfortunately misspelled. It has since become one of the safest cities in Michigan.
Clawson is home to 11,707 people. The median household income in the city is $67,717, and the median age is 40.6 years. Recent data shows that the city’s median home value is around $201,700.
What brings people to this city is that it’s close to other major cities in the region, with plenty of parks and natural sights around to make you feel like you’re far away from the concrete jungle. What makes this city one of the best places in Michigan to live in is the mixture of the low unemployment rate (2.8%), reasonable cost of living (2.4% below average), and extraordinarily low crime rates.
Clawson had 52 property crimes (42 thefts, 8 burglaries, 2 vehicle thefts) and 7 violent crimes (4 assaults, 1 robbery, 2 rapes) reported in 2019. Thankfully, no murders were reported that year.
There isn’t much to do in Clawson, which is this city’s only major setback. If you need a lot of amenities to keep you occupied, you’d probably do better living in one of the largest cities in Michigan instead of a small city like Clawson.
Birmingham
(Property: 591; Violent: 47)
- Population: 21,607
- Median age: 42.4
- Median household income: $122,804
- Median house value: $509,900
A city with more than 20 parks, Birmingham also belongs to Metro Detroit, and it’s also one of the most expensive cities in the area.
Today, 21,607 people are living in Birmingham. The city’s median household income is $122,804, the median age is 42.4 years, and the median home value is around $509,900. What amenities come with this price?
There are good reasons why Birmingham is considered one of the best cities to live in Michigan. As previously mentioned, the city has over 20 parks, in addition to tennis courts, golf courses, trails, and picnic areas available. Also, there’s a theater that was founded in 1928 and other numerous sources of entertainment. The unemployment rate is at 2.4%, making it easier to find work than in most of the US. If you love walking, you’ll love it here, as the city’s motto is “a walkable community.”
Also, if you’re looking for Michigan cities with the lowest crime rate, Birmingham will impress you. In 2019, the city reported 127 property crimes (100 thefts, 20 burglaries, 7 vehicle thefts) and 10 violent crimes (7 assaults, 1 robbery, 2 rapes). That year, no murder cases were reported.
It costs a lot to live in Birmingham; the cost of living is 39.6% above the US average, making it the most expensive city on this list so far.
Rochester Hills
(Property: 613; Violent: 52)
- Population: 74,460
- Median age: 42.2
- Median household income: $93,953
- Median house value: $326,400
The next item on our list of the safest cities in Michigan was a Native American settlement until the territories were divided in 1807. Like the four previous items on this list, Rochester Hills is part of the Metro Detroit area.
The city has 74,460 residents, a median household income of $93,953, and a median age of 42.2 years. Recent real estate data shows a median home value of $326,400. Additionally, Rochester Hills comes 15th place on the list of top cities in Michigan by population.
Those who like spending their time outdoors will never run out of things to do in Rochester, as the city is surrounded by trails, parks, and recreation areas. Moreover, those who seek work here shouldn’t have too much difficulty, as the unemployment rate sits at 2.9%.
Rochester Hills’s biggest upside is its crime rate, which is impressive considering its size. In 2019, the city reported 461 property crimes (405 thefts, 42 burglaries, 14 vehicle thefts) and 39 violent crimes (31 assaults, 3 robberies, 5 rapes). Again, no murders were reported that year. With its overall crime rate, it’s not surprising that Rochester Hills is considered one of the safest places to live in Michigan.
As with most safe cities, Rochester Hills is expensive to live in; the cost of living is 16.5% higher than the US average.
Beverly Hills
(Property: 748; Violent: 19)
- Population: 10,272
- Median age: 47.9
- Median household income: $127,419
- Median house value: $402,100
The sixth spot holder on this list is technically a village and another Detroit suburb. Beverly Hills was established in 1958, and it was never incorporated as a city. To this day, it remains to be Michigan’s most populous village. It’s also one of the safest places to live in Michigan.
Today, 10,272 people live in Beverly Hills. The median household income is $127,419, the median age is 47.9 years, and the median home value is around $402,100.
Galleries, parks, and a nature preserve are located close to the village, offering entertainment and recreation to residents and visitors alike. The mixture of a 2.4% unemployment rate, public education investments that are $4,500 higher than the US average, and low crime rates attracts people to Beverly Hills.
The Beverly Hills crime rate in 2019 shows 78 property crimes (60 thefts, 10 burglaries, 8 vehicle thefts) reported, together with 2 instances of violent crime, particularly assaults. Furthermore, no murders were reported that year.
The cost of living, which is 26.5% higher than the US average, is one of the two main faults of this village. The other one is the decline in infrastructure and population brought on by Detroit’s economic devastation. Even though it’s one of the best small towns to live in Michigan, Beverly Hills is not for those who like the rush that busy cities bring.
Royal Oak
(Property: 735; Violent: 102)
- Population: 59,119
- Median age: 35.8
- Median household income: $81,665
- Median house value: $247,100
Officially incorporated as a city in 1921, Royal Oak is a Detroit suburb and a part of Oakland County. Nowadays, the city has a population of 59,119, a median household income of $81,665, a median age of 35.8 years, and a median home value of $247,100.
Royal Oak is the best city to live in Michigan for those who like a small-town feel without sacrificing the amenities of a large city. Visitors will have plenty to do in Royal Oak, and it will even take residents quite some time to explore all of its entertainment options. It shares the Detroit Zoo with Huntington Woods.
On the other hand, the downtown area was developed into an entertainment and nightlife center, which is perfect for young people. Although it is a sizable city, the unemployment rate in Royal Oak is just 3.2%. It’s not the cheapest place to live in Michigan, but the cost of living is reasonable, at 4.6% above the national average.
The low crime numbers reported in Royal Oak make this city so attractive to the younger population, driving the median age down. In 2019, 439 property crimes (369 thefts, 38 burglaries, 32 vehicle thefts) were reported in the city, together with 61 violent crimes (47 assaults, 4 robberies, 9 rapes, 1 murder). With this crime rate, Royal Oak qualifies as one of the safest cities in Michigan in 2021.
Like most of Detroit, the Royal Oak area has been heavily impacted by the motor industry decline, which the city so depended on. However, this up-and-coming city is currently one of the most affordable places to live in Michigan, and it should definitely be short-listed for those searching for a new home.
Farmington
(Property: 784; Violent: 57)
- Population: 10,381
- Median age: 37.9
- Median household income: $76,102
- Median house value: $229,200
Another Detroit suburb on the list, Farmington has some of the safest neighborhoods in the Metro Detroit area. It is recovering from the misfortune of this area by investing heavily in rebuilding its infrastructure. Restored buildings, new sidewalks, and improved lighting will welcome you to Farmington.
Today, the city has 10,381 inhabitants. Their median household income is $76,102, their median age is 37.9, and a median home in the city costs about $229,200.
Farmington is a place filled with stunning Victorian-style homes, and the city’s historic downtown is where you’ll find plenty to do. With a reasonable cost of living of just 3.4% above the national average, the city may just be one of the best places to retire in Michigan. Additionally, those planning to stay permanently will appreciate the low unemployment rate (2.7%) and the well-funded public education system. They spend a little over $2,000 more than the national average for every student.
In 2019, Farmington residents reported 83 property crimes (64 thefts, 15 burglaries, 4 vehicle thefts), and 6 violent crimes (4 assaults, 2 rapes). There were no reported murders that same year, and the city’s overall crime rate was 58% lower than the Michigan crime rate.
There’s not much to consider a negative to living in Farmington, except for the lack of entertainment options. Young people who like to party and have multiple restaurant options will have to travel 25–30 miles, which might be a deal-breaker for some.
However, for those who like their peace and quiet, it may be one of the best cities in Michigan to live in.
Farmington Hills
(Property: 934; Violent: 107)
- Population: 79,958
- Median age: 42.9
- Median household income: $83,268
- Median house value: $263,300
Farmington Hills is a neighboring city to the previously mentioned Farmington, and the two are seen as the same community. One thing they share is the low crime rate, with Farmington Hills being ranked the 30th safest city in the US back in 2010. What differentiates them are the size and amenities found in Farmington Hills.
Is Michigan a good place to live in? We think you should be the judge. In Farmington Hills, the population is 79,958, the median household income is $83,268, and the median age is 42.9. Also, you can buy a house for a median price of $263,300, real estate statistics show.
What brings visitors to Farmington Hills is its plethora of museums, from the only Holocaust memorial center in Michigan to the quirky Museum of Mechanics. In addition, there are parks, a historic village, and plenty of things to do to keep you occupied. The unemployment rate of 3%, above-average public school funding, and low crime rates are what keep people here.
Farmington Hills crime rate in 2019 shows that there were 759 property crimes (547 thefts, 145 burglaries, 67 vehicle thefts) and 87 violent crimes (63 assaults, 7 robberies, 17 rapes) reported. Thankfully, no murders were reported that year.
Farmington Hills is 8.5% more expensive to live in than most of the US, which might be an issue for many who are considering moving here.
Midland
(Property: 938; Violent: 134)
- Population: 41,511
- Median age: 38.7
- Median household income: $63,812
- Median house value: $137,700
Commonly the first choice for people wondering where to live in Michigan, Midland was recognized by Forbes in 2010 as the fourth best small city to raise a family in.
Today, Midland has a population of 41,511, a median household income of $63,812, and a median age of 38.7 years. A median home in the city is worth around $137,700. But, what makes Midland so popular and important?
A picture-perfect family city—with enough stuff to do so you’ll never get bored—that isn’t overcrowded and is among the safest cities in Michigan is not the easiest combination to find. Midland offers just that and plenty more. With affordable housing, numerous entertainment options, an unemployment rate of 5.1%, and some of the most impressive crime numbers in the US for a city of its size, it is hard not to consider Midland for your next home.
When it comes to crime rates, the city had 392 property crimes (344 thefts, 36 burglaries, 12 vehicle thefts) and 56 violent ones (30 assaults, 4 robberies, 21 rapes, 1 murder). The city’s crime rate is nearly 50% lower than the crime rate in Michigan.
There’s not a lot of negatives to living in Midland. It is a city on the rise, and now’s the chance to get in, while it’s still cheap, both in terms of housing and the general cost of living (16.5% below average for now).
The 10 Most Popular Michigan Cities Ranked by Safety
Troy
(Property: 1,230; Violent: 79)
- Population: 84,054
- Median age: 42.2
- Median household income: $101,882
- Median house value: $312,800
Troy is the place to be in the Detroit Metro area when it comes to shopping and business. Let’s list some of the titles in its arsenal. It was the safest city in Michigan in 2011, the fourth-most affordable US city in 2008, the 19th safest city in 2011, and the 22nd best place to live in the US.
The city has a population of 84,054, a median household income of $101,882, and a median age of 42.2 years. A median home is priced at just slightly over $312,800.
Troy has a waterpark, plenty of regular parks, museums, and many other features that should pique your interest. Aside from its safety, another factor that makes Troy a perfect home is its unemployment rate of just 3.5%, which is well below the national average.
According to the Troy, MI crime rate in 2019, there were 1,042 property crimes (918 thefts, 70 burglaries, 54 vehicle thefts) and 67 violent crimes (47 assaults, 8 robberies, 10 rapes, 2 murder) reported.
The only negative side worth noting is the cost of living, which is 14.5% higher than the US average.
Livonia
(Property: 1,507; Violent: 178)
- Population: 92,957
- Median age: 45.5
- Median household income: $80,149
- Median house value: $209,000
With multiple churches, colleges, and libraries, as well as a large hospital, Livonia is one of the centers of the Metro Detroit area, making it one of the most popular cities in Michigan.
Livonia has 92,957 residents, making it the ninth most populous city in Michigan. The city’s population has a median household income of $80,149, a median age of 45.5 years, and a median home value of around $209,000.
The city offers numerous amenities, which draw people to it. The unemployment rate of 3.8%, the averagely funded public education system, and the cost of living that is 0.8% below average also come in handy. For a city of nearly 100,000 people, the low crime rates in Livonia is truly impressive.
According to the Livonia, MI crime rate in 2019, there were 1,411 property crimes (1,173 thefts, 126 burglaries, 112 vehicle thefts) reported. When it comes to violent crime, 167 instances were reported (127 assaults, 18 robberies, 22 rapes). Fortunately, no murders were reported that year.
Not much can be considered a bad side to living in Livonia. It is one of the cities in Michigan that suits most people, so it is definitely one of the best places to live in Michigan.
Ann Arbor
(Property: 1,728; Violent: 251)
- Population: 117,082
- Median age: 27.5
- Median household income: $65,745
- Median house value: $379,600
Ann Arbor is one of the rare Michigan cities that wasn’t affected by the downfall of Detroit’s industry. The city has been dependent on the University of Michigan for a long time, as it employs more than a quarter of the population.
There are 117,082 people living in Ann Arbor. The median household income is $65,745, and the median age, driven down by college students, is 27.5 years. Buying a home in one of the biggest cities in Michigan by population costs a median price of $379,600.
Ann Arbor is a fairly large city with plenty to do. You’ll find a botanical garden, a museum of art, and many other amenities related to the University. This is a city full of young people, but it doesn’t repel the older generations in any way. Finding a peaceful spot in the city is not hard, with plenty of parks around. Finding work is easy as well, with the unemployment rate sitting at 3.9%. Ultimately, its crime rate is what separates it from similar cities in the US.
The Ann Arbor, Michigan crime rate in 2019 shows that the property crimes reported amounted to 2,124 (1,789 thefts, 197 burglaries, 138 vehicle thefts), while violent crimes reached 309 during the year (184 assaults, 46 robberies, 77 rapes, 2 murders).
Ann Arbor’s main negative point is the fact that the job market is not diverse enough. Centered around the university and its medical center, this city’s job industry has a long way to go. However, there have been some encouraging improvements with high-tech companies moving to the city. Also, for a city of this population size, it’s surprising that Michigan crime statistics show that it’s still pretty high-ranking when it comes to safety.
Southfield
(Property: 2,056; Violent: 273)
- Population: 72,115
- Median age: 42.9
- Median household income: $55,705
- Median house value: $176,800
Being one of Metro Detroit’s most sought-after business districts, Southfield is home to five golden skyscrapers. More than 100 Fortune 500 companies have offices in Southfield. For business enthusiasts, it’s probably one of the best cities in Michigan to visit. However, the city offers so much more as well.
Nowadays, 72,115 people live in Southfield. Their median household income is $55,705, the median age sits at 42.9, and a median home in the city is valued at $176,800.
Even though it’s mostly centered around business, Southfield has a thing or two to offer its residents and visitors. Public education is well-funded, and the cost of living is the same as the national average.
However, the crime numbers in the city are a slight cause for concern. The Southfield, MI crime rate for 2019 shows that 1,508 property crimes were committed (898 thefts, 358 burglaries, 252 vehicle thefts) and 200 violent crimes (121 assaults, 45 robberies, 33 rapes, 1 murder).
Property crime rates could be a major concern for those looking to move to Southfield, as property crimes in the city are 30% higher than that of the state. On the other hand, violent crimes are not as bad as at the state level. In particular, the murder rate in Southfield is significantly lower than the Michigan murder rate.
However, another con to living in Southfield is that the city’s unemployment rate of 6.9% is above the national average of 5.9%.
Grand Rapids
(Property: 1,908; Violent: 637)
- Population: 202,767
- Median age: 31.4
- Median household income: $50,103
- Median house value: $164,900
Grand Rapids is the largest of the West Michigan cities and the second-largest city in the state. It is also known as “Furniture City,” as five of the world’s largest office furniture producers are located here. Moreover, it’s deemed as one of the nicest cities in Michigan with both affordable cost of living and big-town feels.
Now, the city has 202,767 inhabitants, a median household income of $50,103, and a median age of 31.4 years. The price of a median home listed for sale in Grand Rapids is $164,900.
Grand Rapids is a large city with plenty to see. Museums, parks, and one of the largest urban historic districts in the US make it one of the best cities in Michigan to visit. Although the city’s unemployment rate of 6.3% is higher than the US average, it has also seen a positive job growth of 2% over the last year. Additionally, the cost of living in Grand Rapids is 12.2% lower than the US average, which is another major positive side of living in this city.
The crime rate, however, might be discouraging to some. In 2019, the Grand Rapids, MI crime rate was not impressive: 3,850 property crimes were reported (2,754 thefts, 595 burglaries, 501 vehicle thefts), together with 1,286 violent crimes (860 assaults, 274 robberies, 144 rapes, 8 murders).
The city’s main flaw is its high crime rates, and it is one of the major concerns that discourage people from moving into this otherwise great city.
Dearborn
(Property: 2,241; Violent: 325)
- Population: 93,038
- Median age: 31.6
- Median household income: $53,670
- Median house value: $142,700
When looking at Michigan crime stats, the next city on the list is nowhere from being considered safe. The eighth-largest city in Michigan and home to the largest Muslim population in the US, Dearborn is also the birthplace of Henry Ford. He built the largest Ford factory there, and Dearborn was one of the cities most heavily impacted by the crash of the car industry. Luckily, the city has mostly recovered since then.
Today, 93,038 people live in Dearborn. The median household income in the city is $53,670, the median age is 31.6 years, and the median home price is $142,700.
Where is the best place to retire in Michigan? Well, with numerous amenities and a cost of living that’s 5.4% lower than the national average, Dearborn could easily fit the requirements. In addition to these positive things, the city has an unemployment rate of 6.6%, which is well below the US average.
Dearborn does a lot to honor Henry Ford. The Henry Ford Museum, Fair Lane, the estate of the Ford family, and the Automotive Hall of Fame all stand to show how proud the city is of its car industry heritage.
However, the Dearborn, MI crime rate for 2019 is somewhat worrying, especially when it comes to property crime. That year, there were 2,104 property crimes (1,637 thefts, 201 burglaries, 266 vehicle thefts) and 305 violent ones ( 209 assaults, 56 robberies, 36 rapes, 4 murders) reported.
The city is still recovering, most evident by the high property crime rate shared among cities with the same past. This represents the main downside to living in Dearborn, Michigan.
However, on the bright side, when looking at Michigan crime statistics by city, violent crimes in Dearborn are still 14% lower than the national average.
Saginaw
(Property: 1,549; Violent: 1,474)
- Population: 47,725
- Median age: 35
- Median household income: $29,582
- Median house value: $102,800
Once a lumber town, Saginaw is now focused on producing clean energy. It is also a town of entrepreneurs and manufacturers, with more patents per employee than other mid-sized communities and a higher proportion of manufacturing jobs than most of the US. On this list, it is the smallest city in Michigan by population.
Nowadays, 47,725 people live in Saginaw. The median household income is low, at $29,582. The median age is 35, and at $102,800, the median home price is proportional to the income.
Despite all the flaws you’ll see listed below, Saginaw is shaping up to become a popular city in Michigan. The city invests in amenities that will attract more families, such as the Children’s Zoo and the Children’s Museum. On the other hand, adults can find entertainment here too. For now, the city’s main upsides are the affordable housing and a cost of living that’s 20.3% lower than the national average. Its main downside, however, is its crime rates.
The Saginaw crime rate in 2019 shows 743 registered property crimes (421 thefts, 245 burglaries, 77 vehicle thefts) and 707 violent crimes (613 assaults, 51 robberies, 34 rapes, 9 murders). It can be disheartening to think that violent crimes in Saginaw are 289% higher than the national figures.
To add to the rampant crime, the unemployment rate in the city is a whopping 13.7%. This is not a city for those unwilling to wait a few years until it recovers fully.
Flint
(Property: 2,086; Violent: 1,349)
- Population: 94,762
- Median age: 35.5
- Median household income: $28,834
- Median house value: $18,800
The next city on our list is definitely not one of the safest places to live in Michigan. Flint earned its nickname, “Vehicle City,” by being one of the leading cities for automotive manufacturing. Companies such as Buick and Chevrolet had their main facilities there until the recession of the early 1980s hit. Nowadays, the city is most known for its drinking water crisis, which has been ongoing since 2014.
Today, 94,762 people live in Flint, and that number has been dropping year over year, indicating that the city is probably not one of the best places to live in Michigan. The city is characterized by a median household income of $28,834, a median age of 35.5 years, and a staggeringly low median home price of $18,800.
For those who decide to visit or move to Flint, all hope is not lost. You will find plenty of things to do in the city. It might also help you save some money, as the cost of living is 28.4% lower than the US average, and the houses are so cheap to buy. In addition, public education investments are nearly $4,000 higher than the national average.
The city’s crime rates, however, are a cause of concern. The Flint, Michigan crime rate in 2019 shows a total of 1,986 property crimes (1,220 thefts, 559 burglaries, 207 vehicle thefts) and 1,284 violent crimes (1,119 assaults, 78 robberies, 64 rapes, 23 murders) reported.
To add to the increasing crime rates and the lack of drinking water, which many suspects won’t be resolved soon, Flint has an unemployment rate of 19.7%.
Pontiac
(Property: 2,174; Violent: 1,286)
- Population: 58,832
- Median age: 31.9
- Median household income: $33,568
- Median house value: $70,700
Another one of the most popular cities in Michigan is Pontiac. The city was founded in 1818 and is the second European-American settlement in the Detroit area, founded right after Dearborn.
The city has a population of 58,832. The median household income is $33,568, the median age is 31.9 years, and the median house value is $70,700, showing that this is one of the poorest and cheapest cities on the list.
Although it’s not one of the safest cities in Michigan, Pontiac can still be a great place. It has a Sea Life Aquarium, a LEGOLAND Discovery Center, and a ton of other stuff that children and adults will love. Also, the cost of living is 15.9% below the US average, and schools are funded nearly $4,000 more than an average school in the country.
However, Pontiac had some crime issues in 2019: 1,300 property crimes were reported (875 thefts, 315 burglaries, 110 vehicle thefts), together with 769 violent crimes (585 assaults, 108 robberies, 66 rapes, 10 murders).
Another negative side to living in Pontiac is its unemployment rate of 11.9%. The Pontiac, Michigan crime rate being well above the national and state averages for property and violent crimes is another major concern.
Detroit
(Property: 4,303; Violent: 1,965)
- Population: 664,139
- Median age: 34.7
- Median household income: $30,894
- Median house value: $53,700
One of the most prosperous cities on the planet just a few decades ago, Detroit has turned into a shadow of its former self. At the 1950 census, the city had 1.85 million residents. Today, it is a city with thousands of empty buildings, and urban decay is present wherever you look. Despite that, efforts were made to restore some of the historic buildings, and some parts of Detroit are even seeing an increase in population, but things haven’t been the same since.
Is Detroit safe? The answer is No. This is probably why Detroit now only has 664,139 inhabitants, roughly a third of its population almost 70 years ago. The median household income in the city is $30,894, the median age is 34.7 years, and the median house value is $53,700.
Regardless of the population decrease and the depression, Detroit still remains a large city with plenty of things to do for entertainment. The cost of living is 12.4% lower than the US average, and public schools here invest $6,000 more per student than the average American school.
When it comes to crime rates, it’s horrifying to think that the Detroit murder rate is 728% higher than the national average per 100,000 inhabitants. Additionally, in 2019, there were 28,550 property crimes (14,844 thefts, 6,820 burglaries, 6,886 vehicle thefts) and 13,040 violent crimes (9,467 assaults, 2,346 robberies, 952 rapes, 275 murders) reported in the city.
The unemployment rate of 15.7% and the high crime rate are the main reasons behind Detroit’s population decline.
Conclusion
From the decayed concrete of Detroit to the state’s small, quaint suburbs, we hope that this list of the safest cities in Michigan equips those looking to move to this state with the necessary knowledge to make the right choice.
If you’re not moving here, pay a visit and get to know the cradle of the American automotive industry and one of the former moving forces of the nation.
