Detroit is located in the Great Lakes region of the United States, near the US-Canada border. It is the largest city in Michigan, with a population of 639,111. Its metropolitan area, known as Metropolitan Detroit, has a population of 4.3 million people. Detroit is known for its architecture, music scene, and history with the automobile industry.
Weather in Detroit can vary between warm summers and chilly winters. Average temperatures range from 26°F to 74°F. Detroit gets an average rainfall of 35.5 inches per year and an average snowfall of 42.5 inches per season (November-April).
Detroit was founded by French colonists in the early 1700s. Named after the Detroit River, it was incorporated in 1815. In the late 1800s and early 1900s, Detroit became home to early automobile manufacturers such as Ford Motor Company and American Chrysler Corporation. During and after WWII, the automobile industry expanded significantly, becoming a central part of the city’s economy. After seeing a decline during the early 2000s, Detroit is viewed as a city on the rise as new businesses and initiatives take root.
City |
Single |
Family |
Detroit, MI |
$1895 |
$4628 |
Jacksonville, FL |
$2109 |
$4891 |
Los Angeles, CA |
$2975 |
$6193 |
Austin, TX |
$2672 |
$6245 |
New York City, NY |
$3723 |
$8021 |
Automotive manufacturing still comprises a large portion of Detroit’s economy. However, the healthcare, technology, and finance industries are also key contributors. Significant companies based in Detroit include General Motors, Little Caesars, Quicken Loans, Ally Financial, and Rossetti Architects.
The average cost of living in Detroit is $1,895 for an individual and $4,628 for a family of four. It is ranked as the 39th best city to live in the United States and is in the top 2% of best places to live in the world.
The Rivertown district of Detroit offers plenty of paths for walkers and cyclists. The RiverWalk encompasses an array of shops, restaurants, bars, and an amphitheater.
The Entertainment District in downtown Detroit host events year-round. With Comerica Park and Ford Field located next door to each other, and many theaters and music venues nearby, this district is always filled with new activities.
The Corktown district is Detroit’s oldest neighborhood and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Originally a predominantly Irish neighborhood, this district is home to great pubs, restaurants, and local hangouts.
Detroit has a rich history as a home for musicians. Today it hosts many large music events throughout the year. And small music venues offer weekly concerts and shows. The renowned Detroit Symphony Orchestra performs regularly at Orchestra Hall.
Museums and art galleries are prevalent in Detroit. Top destinations include The Motown Historical Museum, the Detroit Institute of Arts, the Detroit Historical Museum, and the Detroit Science Center.
For sports fans, Detroit is home to the Detroit Lions (NFL), Detroit Tigers (MLB), Detroit Pistons (NBA), and Detroit Red Wings (NHL). The University of Detroit Mercy and Wayne State University host NCAA Division I and II athletic events. And the professional soccer team Detroit City F.C. (USL Championship) plays their home games at Keyworth Stadium.
