Moving to Detroit

Located in the northern US state of Michigan on the border of Canada, Detroit is a city well placed to do business. The city's position on the vast Detroit River has enabled it to become a prominent port on one of the four major straits that connect the Great Lakes system to the Saint Lawrence Seaway.

Despite this advantageous location, Detroit's once-thriving economy faced a major setback in the aftermath of the automobile industry boom. Industrial restructuring and loss of jobs in the auto industry, among other factors, sent the city into sharp decline, resulting in the loss of a considerable portion of its population.

This drain resulted in Detroit becoming the largest US city ever to file for bankruptcy, but the city regained control of its finances and is pulling itself up by its proverbial bootstraps, once again attracting investment and people. In fact, the city's residents now proudly refer to it as the 'Comeback City'.

Living in Detroit as an expat

Detroit is the most populous city in the state of Michigan and has earned a reputation as being an American cultural hub, producing iconic contributions to the country’s automotive, music, art and design scenes.

The metro is still the cornerstone of the US automobile industry and home to the headquarters of manufacturing giants such as General Motors, Ford and Chrysler. Aside from this, other large sectors include general manufacturing, technology, finance and healthcare.

Newcomers skilled in manufacturing, finance, IT, tourism, healthcare and exporting will find ample employment opportunities. The city’s automotive heritage is also still in high gear, offering expats with experience in car manufacturing many great opportunities.

Accommodation in Detroit is some of the most affordable in the US. Many newcomers choose to buy given the low property prices and the revitalisation of the city. With a range of freestanding houses, luxury condos and affordable apartments, the city truly has something for everyone.

Although the city’s public transport systems aren’t as extensive as those of other US metros, the mix of buses, trains and the tram system can take any commuter almost anywhere in the city. Taxis are also an effective way of getting around in Detroit, and cycling is a highly popular method of getting from point A to B. 

As in the rest of Michigan, low-income residents of Detroit may qualify for the Medicaid healthcare programme, but expats will generally not be eligible. Healthcare facilities are generally of high quality in the city, but access to these services may come at considerable cost, so health insurance is advised.

Cost of living in Detroit

The city's cost of living is still reasonable, with reasonably priced public schooling, cheap accommodation and a generally great quality of life. Those with cars should note that the city is quite large, which may influence the amount spent on petrol, particularly considering the rising fuel prices. Car insurance is also notoriously expensive.

Expat families and children

Parents moving to Detroit will be happy to find a great selection of reputable schools available, including private and international institutions. For college students, the city has two large universities: the University of Detroit Mercy and Wayne State University, while there are many smaller colleges and higher-learning institutions dotted throughout the city.

There's also no shortage of entertainment. Known as a bastion of musical and cultural history, musos and culture buffs will certainly enjoy the lifestyle in Detroit – it is the birthplace of both Motown and techno, after all. The city boasts a host of great live music spots, and big artists never miss a chance to visit. Plus, the city's calendar is overloaded with fun festivals and other annual events that families shouldn't miss out on. The city also has many museums that offer a deeper look into its history.

Climate in Detroit

A continental climate persists in Detroit, with very cold winters and generally hot summers. Snowfall and thunderstorms are not uncommon, making the weather throughout the year quite unruly at times.

Detroit is slowly shaking off the shackles of a reputation of urban decay that has plagued it for years and is now once again a buzzing metro with lively bars and eateries, plenty to see and do and a lively atmosphere of rebirth. It's no wonder the city is once again attracting new residents in their droves; it seems everyone wants to be part of Project Comeback.