What’s stopping you from living in Detroit? The rumors of it being an urban wasteland? The rundown buildings and broken architecture? The rampant shooting, violence, and typically high crime rate? Those are valid concerns. While there’s no denying that Detroit, the Motor City, has had its share of problems in the past, it has gradually come back on its feet. The arguments that claim living in Detroit sucks aren’t sustainable anymore. If you’re worried about the city’s current state, here are common misconceptions from an outsider that doesn’t apply to the city as of the present.

1. Detroit is a Wasteland

When people talk of Detroit, they speak of a dull lifestyle surrounded by ruins, pollution, and poverty. Well, this might have been true five decades ago. However, Detroit is on its way back. Believe it or not, Motor City is now one of the fastest-growing cities in America.

The truth is far from what you’ve been told — it’s not a wasteland waiting to consume you. Government regulations on how factories handle and dispose of waste have significantly reduced pollution. There might be several rundown homes, but the place is also home to iconic structures like Cadillac Building and Hart Plaza. You’ll be shocked to see that the wasteland you’re expecting actually turns out to be a modern paradise of innovation and creativity.

2. Detroiters are Rude and Violent

Some people think that Detroit is a place full of hostility. They say that locals can be rude and hostile to outsiders. However, this isn’t true at all. They may have had unfortunate encounters with the ‘minority’ who don’t like visitors, but in reality, most residents are happy when they come and appreciate Motown’s beauty. This makes life in Detroit not too difficult to acclimate, just like you would anywhere else. They don’t want trouble at all.

3. Detroit is Dull and Boring

Some people believe that the city is nothing but plain neighborhoods, without much character or exciting landmarks to explore. It’s just another place where people work, eat their meal, then go home for rest. Well, this couldn’t be further from the truth because Detroit has its own unique charm that will surely mesmerize everyone who loves history and fine art. The city is filled with many historical structures, attractions, and museums. Start with the Motown Museum, where the remnants of Henry Ford’s humble beginnings can be found. Check out the historic Fort Wayne, the primary induction center for every Michigan Troop from the Civil War to the Vietnam War. Finally, catch a high-octane baseball game at Comerica Park, which can seat over 40,000 people. Good luck with finding a shortage of fun things to do!

4. Detroit Lacks Good Education

That’s just not true! Detroit might not be the greatest when it comes to education, but the public schools are improving every year with more funding. The Detroit school board recently passed a proposal to invest $500 million into the public education system over the next five years, including all 98 public schools in the city. Although some say this amount falls short in the battle against lack of literacy, it shows how the government tries to make a difference for the upcoming generations.

You’ll find several high-performing public schools in the area like Charles Wright Academy of Arts and Science, Oakland International Academy Elementary, and The James and Grace Lee Boggs School. On top of that, you’ll also find internationally known colleges and universities like the University of Michigan-Dearborn, Lawrence Technological University, Wayne State University, Oakland University, and many more.

5. Detroit Will Get a Bullet Through Your Chest

It’s no secret that Detroit is a city with high crime rates. Neighborhoods have been fighting to keep their streets safe while the police department struggles to keep up. Although it’s a far cry to say that the crimes are a thing of the past, there has been some progress. Outstanding improvements so far. In 2021, homicide rates in Detroit dropped by 5%, while robberies decreased by 17% – something worth noting. However, people who live in areas that are considered dangerous understand that it’s a matter of being vigilant and staying aware. It has little to do with where you live because crime happens everywhere, from downtown to gated communities. This still doesn’t stop people from going out to eat, walk their pets, or hang out for fun. Rest assured, you can still live a healthy life.

6. Detroit is Beyond Saving

False.

Detroit has had its fair share of challenges, but there are now signs that the city is making progress. It is starting to bounce back from population loss, with multiple millennials moving in every week.

Motor City went through a tough time over the past few decades. Unemployment skyrocketed, and crime rates increased due to high poverty rates. Detroit’s economy struggled immensely as well following the decline of the US auto industry. 

However, Detroit has started emerging from this dark age thanks to fresh economic initiatives that support entrepreneurship and innovation. One of these projects includes the Quicken Loans Family of Companies’ 50-block project, which aims to revitalize the city’s downtown into a vibrant hub for businesses and residents alike.

It’s just hard not to root for the city’s rise from the rubbles once more.

Raising a Family in Detroit

There are plenty of career paths and opportunities in Motown. Don’t let biased perspectives from outsiders fool your vision. Starting your own family in the city doesn’t have to be complicated. If you are just patient, vigilant, and perseverant enough, you can find hidden gems to help you live a fruitful and happy life.