Located in the northern US state of Michigan on the border of Canada, Detroit is a well-placed city for doing 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 its advantageous location, Detroit’s once-thriving economy faced a major setback after the automobile industry bust. Industrial restructuring and job losses 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 Michigan and has earned a reputation for being an American cultural hub, producing iconic contributions to the country’s automotive, music, art, and design scenes.

Expats from all walks of life will find community in Detroit, as the city, like the rest of the US, is a melting pot of cultures. The city is also home to one of the busiest airports in Detroit, so it’s easy to travel across North America and internationally. The quality of life in Detroit is also excellent, with many exciting attractions and friendly locals.

Working in Detroit

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. 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.

Finding a Job in the USA
Business Culture in the USA

Finding accommodation in Detroit

Although costs are rising, accommodation in Detroit is some of the most affordable in the US. Given the low prices and the city’s revitalisation, many newcomers choose to buy property. With a range of freestanding houses, luxury condos, and affordable apartments, the city truly has something for everyone.

Unsure where to begin your property search journey? Have a look at Accommodation in Detroit for more on rental contracts and utilities in the city.

Getting around in Detroit

While Detroit’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. Cycling is a highly popular method of getting from point A to B. You might find that owning a car gives you more freedom to explore the broader city.

Transport and Driving in Detroit

Cost of living in Detroit

The cost of living in Detroit is still quite affordable. Public schools are reasonably priced, housing is cheap, and the overall quality of life is good. The city is large, so you might spend more on gas if you drive, especially with fuel prices rising. Car insurance in Detroit is also known to be quite expensive.

See a chart of basic costs and find out more about Budgeting in Detroit.

Lifestyle in Detroit

Detroit is full of entertainment options. As the birthplace of Motown and techno music, it’s a great city for music lovers and culture fans. You’ll find plenty of live music venues, and big-name artists often stop by for concerts.

The city also hosts many fun festivals and annual events that are perfect for families. If you’re interested in history, there are many museums where you can learn more about Detroit’s rich past.

Best Shopping, Attractions, and Events in Detroit

Families and children in Detroit

Detroit is a great city for families, with plenty of activities to keep your kids busy. There are many suburban neighbourhoods near Downtown Detroit that are perfect for families, frequently with excellent schools. If your family enjoys nature, you’ll love exploring Belle Isle, a beautiful island in the city.

You don’t need to worry about your children’s health while living in Detroit, as the city has good healthcare facilities. However, medical services can be expensive, so it’s a good idea to have health insurance.

Finding a school in Detroit

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.

Public schools in the city are free for all legal US citizens. Many schools also offer alternative curricula, such as Montessori and Waldorf. Expat families who do not plan on staying in Detroit long-term can find a few international schools that offer globally recognised curricula, such as those of the UK, France, and Japan, among others.

Find out more about the Public Schools in Detroit, International Schools in Detroit and the Education System in the USA.

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 turbulent at times.

Weather in Detroit

Detroit has a continental climate characterised by four distinct seasons. Summers (June to August) are warm and humid, while winters (December to February) are notoriously cold. The city has one of the highest snowfalls of any major US city.

Mid-summer average temperatures can rise as high as 83°F (28°C), while the coldest month, January, usually dips well below freezing. Rainfall is spread fairly evenly throughout the year, with a few inches recorded monthly. Snow usually falls between November and April.

When it comes to accommodation in Detroit, there is something for everybody. The city is home to not just characterful urban neighbourhoods but also lovely green spaces and sprawling houses.

When first arriving in Detroit, most people tend to rent, but the affordable property market may encourage them to eventually buy a home.

Areas and suburbs in Detroit

With more than 200 neighbourhoods, Detroit will offer you plenty of options. Whether you’re moving to Detroit with your family or by yourself, you’ll find myriad areas and suburbs in Detroit. Families often prefer large, spacious homes with access to parks.

Some of the best family-friendly neighbourhoods in Detroit include Brush Park, Bagley, and Grandmont-Rosedale. These neighbourhoods boast beautiful single-family homes and access to some of Detroit’s best schools.

For young single professionals and couples, neighbourhoods like Downtown Detroit, Midtown, and Corktown are some of the most popular. These areas boast quick access to some of Detroit’s trendiest restaurants and attractions, making them perfect for those who want to enjoy a lively lifestyle without sacrificing access to work.

Read areas and suburbs in Detroit for more on the city’s neighbourhoods.

Types of accommodation in Detroit

Thanks to the city’s recent regeneration, Detroit has experienced much investment in recent years, increasing property values. Although prices are rising, the city remains affordable compared to other major US cities.

There are various accommodation options in the metro. Downtown areas are dominated by a mixture of high-rise residential blocks and low-rise townhouses, while larger family homes with gardens can be found further out in the surrounding suburbs.

As with any big city, Detroit offers myriad options when choosing an apartment. While it may not have an iconic skyline like New York City or Seattle, there is still plenty of decent high-rise housing in the central districts and smaller condos and low-rise residential blocks.

There is a huge variety of houses available in Detroit’s middle and upper-class neighbourhoods. In contrast to the stereotypical image of Detroit as an urban jungle, there are many safe suburbs perfect for raising families. A huge range of housing styles are available throughout the city, from gorgeous Gilded Age properties to Gothic Revival, Federal and Victorian-style homes.

Finding accommodation in Detroit

Online listings are the primary way of exploring housing options in Detroit and are also a good way to familiarise yourself with the city’s property market before relocation. Estate agents are another option, although they will charge a fee for their services.

When looking for a home in Detroit, families should consider areas close to schools, and working professionals should also factor in their work commute, which, depending on location, could be impacted by traffic congestion.

Useful links

• Redfin
• Zillow
• Trulia

Renting accommodation in Detroit

Once you have decided on a home, you will have to approach the landlord as soon as possible to negotiate a suitable lease agreement.

Making an application

The first step in the rental process after finding the desired accommodation is to file an application. Depending on the situation, prospective tenants can do this directly with the landlord or via an estate agent.

The landlord or agency will perform various checks, after which a lease is signed between the landlord and tenant. Foreign nationals will benefit from having a US bank account and social security number set up, which will speed up the process.

Leases, costs, and fees

A standard rental contract in Detroit is usually valid for a year, with the option to renew at the end of the initial term. Sometimes, tenants can negotiate shorter leases, but this is up to individual landlords.

Tenants must pay a deposit, often equivalent to one month’s rent, in addition to the first month’s rent upfront to secure the rental agreement. This deposit must be paid back at the end of the lease. If the landlord deems it necessary to use some or all of the deposit for breakages, outstanding rent, or other expenses you may be liable for, you may only receive a portion of it back.

Have a look at Accommodation in the USA for detailed information on the rental processes in the country.

Utilities in Detroit

Renters need to carefully check the terms of their lease to determine which utilities are included and what additional expenses they’d be liable to pay. In Detroit, utilities such as gas, water, electricity, and internet usually aren’t covered by the landlord, but this varies from property to property.

Electricity and gas

DTE Energy is Detroit’s main electricity and gas supplier, but residents can also choose between several other suppliers licensed by the Michigan Public Service Commission. Most rental properties will already have an electricity connection; you’ll simply have to transfer the account to your name.

You can submit a request to start service on DTE Energy’s website by filling out a six-step service application. You’ll need to provide your address, proof of identification (passport or social security card) and your service start date. We recommend beginning the process at least two weeks before moving to ensure you have power once you move in.

Water

Much of the drinking water in Detroit comes from Lake St Clair and the Detroit River. The Detroit Water and Sewerage Department (DWSD) is responsible for treating and supplying water to the city’s residents.

The easiest way to start a water service is by filling in an online Application for Water & Sewer Service. It’s also possible to mail and post this application form to your nearest DWSD office. These forms are also available in Spanish and Arabic. You must then submit this form along with your proof of identity, lease agreement, and social security number.

Water bills are typically issued monthly, and you can make payment online, by phone, through direct debits to your bank account or in person at a DWSD office.

Bins and recycling

The City of Detroit’s Public Works Department oversees waste management in the city. Rubbish is collected weekly through a door-to-door waste collection system. You’ll generally have a black bin for regular household waste and a blue one for recyclable waste.

The city has recently introduced a new system for collecting regular household waste, yard waste, bulk waste, and recyclables weekly to ensure reliable waste disposal for residents.

Bins must be placed on the kerbside by 7 a.m. on your scheduled collection day. The Public Works Department’s website has the waste collection schedule for your specific neighbourhood. Enter your address to find the schedule for your specific neighbourhood.

Internet

The internet infrastructure across the US and in Detroit is excellent, so you’ll have plenty of reliable options for keeping in touch with your loved ones back home. Earthlink, AT&T, and Xfinity all have great coverage in Detroit.

Some of these providers have bundled mobile, internet, and cable services, offering a cheaper option for residents. With a stable internet connection, it’s easy to stream some of your favourite international shows on platforms like Netflix.

Useful links

• DTE Energy
• DWSD
• Department of Public Works
• Earthlink
• AT&T
• Xfinity

The best places to live in Detroit

Contrary to popular belief, the ‘Motor City’ isn’t all factories and vast motorways. There is a great mixture of areas and suburbs in Detroit, catering to people from all backgrounds and incomes.

Since most of the city’s residents use a car as their primary mode of transport, you’ll have to carefully consider where you live to ensure a smooth commute. If you’re moving to Detroit with children, where you live, school admissions will also be critical, so we recommend thoroughly researching the schools in your chosen neighbourhood before making a commitment.

Below are some recommended neighbourhoods in Detroit.

Young and trendy suburbs in Detroit

Corktown

Trendy Corktown is a residential area popular with young professionals and couples. One of the oldest surviving neighbourhoods in the city, it was named after the County Cork when the first Irish immigrants settled in the area back in the 1850s. Federal, Gothic, and Victorian houses line the streets while buzzing Michigan Avenue is filled with restaurants, coffee shops and bars. There is a strong emphasis on cultural identity here, with its Catholic roots still evident.

Midtown

Midtown is a mixed-use area with residential areas, architectural landmarks, and a business district. There are a decent number of quality schools around the area. It’s extremely safe and easy to get around the area on foot. An array of museums, universities, galleries, grocery shops, general amenities, and public transport complements the community feel.

Downtown Detroit

An area under constant redevelopment, Downtown Detroit is an excellent base for young professionals who want easy access to the city’s exciting attractions and a quick commute to work. Apartments are the main form of housing here, with many offering luxury communal amenities like gyms in the building.

Family-friendly suburbs in Detroit

Woodbridge

Within walking distance of Downtown, Midtown, and the trendy Corktown, Woodbridge is a historic neighbourhood with several significant turn-of-the-century homes. The area is family-friendly and has a largely community-based feel, with a healthy mix of people from all walks of life.

Northville

The relatively small suburb of Northville lies some 29 miles (47km) northwest of the Detroit city centre. Complete with municipal parks and good-quality public schools, it’s a great choice for young families. One of its main drawcards is the Northville Art House, which features exhibitions and cultural shows in its galleries.

Grosse Pointe

Grosse Pointe is a beautiful and affluent collection of coastal suburbs consisting of five main communities filled with Tudor and Victorian-style homes. About 6 miles (10km) northeast of historic Downtown, its ideal location near the shores of Lake St Clair allows for outdoor activities such as fishing, boating and swimming, as well as picnics and golf. The area also has several retail districts, providing ample shopping opportunities. With many excellent schooling options, Grosse Pointe is great if you’re moving to Detroit with children.

Birmingham

Popular with young couples and families alike, Birmingham is an ideal spot to settle down. Located on the north side of the Detroit Metro, Birmingham has numerous exceptional public and international schools.

Birmingham is popular with foodies, and the downtown area has many great eateries and boutique shops. Additionally, the area’s many parks provide a welcome break from the urban rush, as does a visit to the Baldwin Public Library.

Detroit’s public school district is the biggest in Michigan, serving some 50,000 students in more than 100 schools. There are also many private and international schools. The standard of education and schools in Detroit varies, ranging from excellent to substandard.

Budget, proximity and the individual student’s specific needs will dictate their choice of school, so it’s worth doing some research before moving.

If you’re looking for curricula in line with religious teachings, you’ll find many institutions affiliated with different faiths, such as Catholicism, Islam, and the Lutheran Church, among others. Additionally, there are Waldorf and Montessori schools in Detroit.

Public schools in Detroit

Unfortunately, Detroit is extremely polarised when it comes to income, and this directly affects schools. The metro generally follows the usual rule of thumb when it comes to school excellence and performance, with institutions in the wealthier areas faring better than those in more impoverished neighbourhoods, such as those in parts of the inner city.

Children attend a public school according to their residential area, but schools may occasionally accept students from other catchment areas.

The Detroit Public Schools Community School District also has magnet and Montessori schools. Exceptional and gifted students can also access some of the district’s advanced learning programmes aimed at growing their knowledge.

Charter schools

Charter schools are government-funded institutions that operate independently and offer more flexible curricula. They are extremely popular in Detroit, with the highest enrolment rates in the United States, behind only Philadelphia. Indeed, more learners are now attending charter schools than public schools, with results and performance favouring the former.

Read Education and Schools in the USA to learn more about the national public education system.

Useful links

• Detroit Public Schools Community District

International schools in Detroit

Although not as popular as local schools, international schools are a great option if you’re staying in Detroit for the short term and want your child to continue learning their home curriculum or another globally recognised curriculum. There are numerous institutions that follow a foreign curriculum, such as the British schooling system, and some schools offer the International Baccalaureate.

There aren’t many international schools in Detroit, so you should begin the application and enrolment process as soon as possible to ensure your child receives a placement offer. International schools are also quite pricey, and the quoted tuition fees often exclude extras such as uniforms and extracurriculars. While these schools are expensive, they frequently offer high teaching standards and have excellent facilities.

Read more

• International Schools in Detroit

Special-needs education in Detroit

Children with special educational needs, such as learning or developmental issues, are well catered for in Detroit when it comes to inclusive and specialised education. Disabled or differently abled children are granted learning support, emotional support, life skills support or multiple-disabilities support.

The school will typically work together with parents, children, and specialists to develop Individualised Education Plans (IEPs) based on students’ specific needs.

Outside the public school system, the city also has specialised institutions that cater to specific disabilities, such as schools for Deaf or blind learners, and other specialised schools.

Useful links

• Detroit Public Schools Community District – Exceptional Student Education

Tutors in Detroit

Parents in Detroit have the option of additional tutoring. This is helpful when children require assistance in specific subject areas such as English, maths, or science, or when studying for important entrance exams such as the SATs.

It could also benefit children new to the city by helping them build confidence in their new learning environment. Some top tutoring companies in Detroit include Kumon Math and Reading Center of Detroit and Taylor Made Learning. Parents who don’t want to work through a tutoring service will find that there are also many private tutors in the city, ranging from retired teachers to university students.

Useful links

• Kumon Math and Reading Center of Detroit
• Taylor Made Learning

While there aren’t many international schools in Detroit, there is a handful that all provide an excellent standard of education. Some cover the French and German curricula, while others offer the International Baccalaureate and Waldorf systems.

Unlike public schools, international schools do not limit admissions to catchment areas, but we still recommend living as close as possible to your child’s school. This is because traffic congestion can be nightmarish during peak hours in Detroit. Fortunately, some international schools offer scholar transport, easing your morning commute.

Enrolling your child in a public school can also help them meet other children with similar experiences and make their stay in Detroit more pleasant. While these schools offer countless benefits, they are expensive. We recommend negotiating an allowance as part of your relocation package if you are looking to go this route.

While international schools are known for their expensive fees, they also often have higher standards than their public counterparts. Children will also have access to a wider variety of extracurricular activities, so many parents find the cost well worth it.

Below is a list of reputable international and private schools in Detroit.

International schools in Detroit

Deutsche Sprachschule Bloomfield

The Deutsche Sprachschule Bloomfield (DSB) is one of the biggest German language schools in the US. The school offers expat children an opportunity to easily integrate back into the German school system if they’ll be in the US for the short-term with German language lessons.

Gender: Co-educational 
Curriculum: German 
Ages: 3 to 18 
Website: www.deutschesprachschulebloomfield.org

French School of Detroit

The French School of Detroit has over 35 years of experience providing a bilingual education that prepares students for a French diploma. The school is unique in that it offers a double American and French curriculum, with students graduating with a US high school diploma. The French School of Detroit provides a multicultural learning environment that aims to develop truly global citizens.

Gender: Co-educational 
Curriculum: French 
Ages: 1 to 18 
Website: www.frenchschoolofdetroit.org

Washtenaw International High School and Middle Academy

The Washtenaw International High School and Middle Academy is a public school for academically focused students that offers the globally recognised International Baccalaureate curriculum. With just 750 students, small class sizes ensure that children receive individualised attention. Washtenaw International High School and Middle Academy develops curious leaders who will shape our future.

Gender: Co-educational 
Curriculum: International Baccalaureate 
Ages: 11 to 18 
Website: www.wihi.org

International Academy

The International Academy’s mission is to develop self-determining and excellent future leaders. The school is home to specialist teachers who extend themselves to ensure holistic student development. The International Academy offers the International Baccalaureate and a robust liberal arts education, making it a premium public school serving the wider Detroit community.

Gender: Co-educational 
Curriculum: International Baccalaureate 
Ages: 11 to 18 
Website: www.iatoday.org

The lifestyle in Detroit offers plenty to keep you entertained. The city boasts a great restaurant scene, lively nightlife, exciting shopping opportunities, and a host of other attractions.

The best part is that enjoying these pursuits will not break the bank, as the cost of living in Detroit remains largely affordable.

Shopping in Detroit

Detroit’s shopping scene has grown in the last few years, with boutique retail outlets popping up all over the city. Popular shopping neighbourhoods in the metro include the culturally rich Midtown and old Corktown, while Birmingham is seen as the retail flagship in the suburbs. Head to nearby Dearborn to browse its Walmart supercentre for an all-in-one experience.

Perhaps most exciting is Eastern Market near downtown, a historic commercial district covering a massive 43 acres and boasting more than 150 businesses. Its many studios and art galleries have a charming Bohemian quality, while numerous eateries and sellers of fresh and organic produce are also present.

Eating out in Detroit

Detroit is a multicultural melting pot, reflected in its myriad restaurants and food offerings. There are spots to suit all tastes, whether craving a shawarma from Greektown, Polish cuisine from Hamtramck, or a spicy burrito from Mexicantown.

Residents can enjoy small hole-in-the-wall diners and coffee shops or splurge on fine dining and upmarket delis. The city is famous for its local take on the Coney hot dog, served with fresh onions, mustard, and chilli sauce.

Nightlife in Detroit

As the birthplace of Motown, Detroit has a stylish and lively nightlife. Many internationally recognised artists such as Madonna, Lizzo, and Aretha Franklin hail from Detroit, and the city continues to be a home for many live music shows.

The future of the entertainment sector looks bright, with all manner of establishments accompanying the city’s general revitalisation. Along with a host of clubs and bars, Detroit also has an assortment of craft breweries and trendy cocktail bars. No single area is considered the entertainment hub, with exciting places and events scattered throughout the city.

See and do in Detroit

Newcomers to Detroit will never be bored. The city is home to plenty of attractions for car aficionados, several galleries, museums and wonderful green spaces, not to mention the many landmarks that pay homage to the city’s musical Motown past.

Detroit Institute of Arts

The Detroit Institute of Arts is home to over 65,000 works of art displayed in more than 100 galleries. The permanent collection includes works from America, Indigenous Americas, Africa, Oceania, Asia and medieval Europe. It also includes a few masters such as Picasso, Van Gogh and Matisse.

Motown Museum

A must for newcomers to the city, the Motown Museum chronicles Detroit’s rise to fame as the birthplace of many music legends. The museum allows visitors to see the recording studio where Stevie Wonder, Marvin Gaye, the Jackson 5, and others produced hits.

The Ford Piquette Avenue Plant

The Ford Piquette Avenue Plant is where Henry Ford birthed the famous Ford Model T. Visitors can see exactly how the plant was when it was functional, including machinery, tools, drafting tables and beautifully maintained early model vehicles.

Belle Isle

For nature lovers, Belle Isle is a large, wonderfully green island in the Detroit River with lush parks, gorgeous hiking trails, and even lakes. The island boasts a zoo, an aquarium, a beautiful conservatory with all sorts of interesting flora, and a museum on the history of shipping on the Great Lakes.

What’s on in Detroit

New residents of Detroit will be delighted to discover that the city’s calendar is brimming with fun events for every taste and creed. Below, we’ve listed some of our favourite Motor City events.

Motown Winter Blast Royal Oak (January)

As a newcomer to Detroit, you will love getting involved in the Motown Winter Blast, which never fails to kick the year off in style. The Winter Blast was initially a countdown party for Super Bowl XL, but the festival has since morphed into a huge annual tradition with live music acts, a massive snow slide, food trucks, and more.

Cupid’s Undie Run (February)

One for the ‘thrill-anthropists’, the Undie Run sees thousands of Detroiters don their best undies and take to the streets to aid neurofibromatosis sufferers. It’s the only time running around in underwear won’t get you arrested, and newcomers to the city are encouraged to join in the whacky fun.

Hamtramck Music Festival (August)

Who doesn’t love a good music festival? This is Michigan’s biggest local music event, attracting a host of Detroit bands, DJs, and solo artists who take over Hamtramck’s pubs and nightclubs for three days of revelry.

Detroit International Jazz Festival (August)

One to look forward to, Detroit’s International Jazz Festival brings the city to life. The festival spans several city blocks in Downtown Detroit, with a line-up that seems to grow in stature each year, as well as fireworks, parties, and more.

Where to meet people and make friends

Being an expat in a foreign city may be daunting, but you’ll find many opportunities to make friends and integrate into Detroit’s local culture. Below is a list of some of the best places to meet new faces.

Slow Roll

Biking enthusiasts will be glad to hear there’s a large community of like-minded people in the city. This lively group bikes throughout the city and partners with local non-profits to make a difference in the community.

Fowling Warehouse

With a unique blend of bowling and football, the Fowling Warehouse offers sports buffs a chance to release some steam. Fling a football, score a strike and grab a drink at this innovative social club.

People for Palmer Park (PFPP)

The PFPP initiative hopes to restore Palmer Park to its original glory. You may also find that working alongside others in the outdoors is a great opportunity to meet and befriend locals.

Michigan Adventurers Club

For anyone looking to break away from the buzz of the city and get the blood pumping, the Michigan Adventurers Club is an active group that offers the perfect solution. With many interesting activities, these social gatherings are never boring, and you are sure to meet some interesting locals.

Seen as the spiritual home of the American automobile industry, Detroit is a city of drivers. Given the considerable size of the metro and the fact that public transport isn’t quite as extensive as in other major cities in the US, investing in your own set of wheels may be necessary. A bonus is that owning a car allows you to explore further afield.

Detroit is also a great base for exploring the rest of the USA. One of America’s best airlines, Delta Air Lines, has a huge hub at Detroit Metro Airport, ensuring a comfortable journey for passengers.

Public transport in Detroit

Public transport isn’t very comprehensive here, especially compared to other US cities such as New York or Boston. Most residents use cars, buses, and taxis to get around.

Trains

The Detroit People Mover is the most efficient way to get around downtown Detroit. This elevated rail system covers 13 stations, including key stops like Greektown, Huntington Place, and the GM Renaissance Center.

The Detroit People Mover is currently piloting a no-fare programme, so it’s free to access. It typically operates from 7am to 10.30pm on weekdays. Operating hours start later on weekends and extend to 12am.

Trams

A tram called the QLine traverses both downtown and uptown Detroit. It arrives every 15 minutes and serves 12 neighbourhoods with 20 stations.

The QLine is also freely accessible, and its operating hours are from 8am to 12am, with shorter hours on Sundays. The trams also provide bike racks, making it easy to commute on two wheels.

Buses

Bus services connect the suburbs and city, with DDOT, Greyhound, Megabus, and SMART all operating throughout the city. SMART buses connect suburban residents to downtown Detroit, while Greyhound buses offer services throughout North America.

SMART also offers a high-frequency bus service known as FAST. FAST routes operate every 15 to 30 minutes. You can use a DART Regional Pass for discounted rates on DDOT and SMART fixed bus routes and the QLine trams.

Useful links

• The Detroit People Mover
• QLine Detroit
• DDOT
• SMART
• Megabus

Taxis in Detroit

Taxis can be hailed off the street, found at taxi ranks, or booked in advance. They’re a good way to get around in a pinch, but as a daily means of commuting, they can become expensive pretty quickly.

Car-sharing services like Zipcar allow you to rent a vehicle for a day and return it through an application. Ride-hailing services such as Uber and Lyft also operate in the city. These allow you to see the fare before committing to a trip, making it easier to manage your budget.

Useful links

• Uber
• Lyft
• Zipcar

Cycling in Detroit

Sometimes it’s far easier to cycle than drive or take a taxi in Detroit, with Wheelhouse Detroit offering bicycle rentals. The city also operates a bike-sharing company called MoGo, with over 70 stations dotted throughout the main city area.

Large bicycle communities and events, such as the Hub of Detroit, Slow Roll, and Detroit Critical Mass, take advantage of this generally cycle-friendly city.

Useful links

• MoGo
• Wheelhouse Detroit

Driving in Detroit

Most people in Detroit drive. Unfortunately, the Motor City has some of the country’s most expensive car insurance rates. Because of winter’s freeze and thaw cycle, road repairs are seemingly always ongoing.

Just like any big city, rush hour brings traffic jams, and there is a predictable disparity between the standard of roads in poorer and richer areas. To navigate the city, it’s also good to get to grips with the grid and hub-and-spoke system.

Driving licences

You can drive in Detroit with your foreign driving licence for at least six months. After that, you can apply for a local driving licence if you are from a country with no licence exchange agreements with the US. You must provide proof of identity and legal residence in the US. Finally, you’ll also have to take a vision test and then receive your Michigan driving licence.

Useful links

• Michigan Department of State – Licences and IDs

Air travel in Detroit

Exploring other parts of the US and North America will be easy from Detroit. The Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport is considered one of the country’s best, offering domestic and international services. Thanks to the new Detroit Air Express (DAX) shuttle, it’s also easy to get to the airport.

Useful links

• The Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport