Metro Detroit / Southeast Michigan
Detroit, Michigan
City
Michigan's largest city, on the Detroit River across from Windsor
Detroit anchors Southeast Michigan from the Detroit River north along Woodward Avenue, with a compact downtown, riverfront and dozens of distinct neighborhoods.
History & Local Character
Founded by French settlers in 1701, Detroit grew into the center of the American auto industry in the twentieth century and remains the region's cultural and employment core.
Housing & Real Estate
Housing ranges from downtown high-rises and converted lofts to Victorian homes in Corktown and Boston-Edison and brick bungalows on the city's east and west sides.
Restaurants & Shopping
The restaurant scene runs from coney islands and Coney-style diners to Mexicantown taquerias, Eastern Market vendors and chef-driven dining downtown.
Schools & Education
Detroit Public Schools Community District serves most of the city, with charter options and suburban districts throughout the metro.
Parks & Recreation
Belle Isle Park, the Detroit Riverwalk, Palmer Park and Rouge Park give the city more than a thousand acres of public green space.
Transportation & Accessibility
I-75, I-94 and I-96 cross the city, with the QLine on Woodward, the People Mover downtown and Detroit Metropolitan Airport 20 miles southwest.
Local Businesses
Eastern Market vendorsConey island restaurantsMexicantown bakeriesIndependent galleries
No businesses are listed in Detroit yet. Add your business to be the first.
Nearby Attractions
- Detroit Institute of Arts
- Michigan Central Station
- Belle Isle Park
- The Henry Ford
Advantages & Considerations
Advantages
- Deep cultural institutions and historic architecture
- Lower housing costs than most large US cities
- Riverfront and market districts that keep improving
Considerations
- Fragmented public services and wide variations block by block
- Car-dependent for most daily errands
- Property taxes higher than many Michigan suburbs
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Detroit in Wayne County?
Yes. Detroit is the Wayne County seat and the largest city in Michigan.
What river is Detroit on?
Detroit sits on the Detroit River, across from Windsor, Ontario. The river connects Lake St. Clair with Lake Erie.