What should I be aware of before moving from Long Island to Detroit?

Moving from Long Island to Detroit is less about chasing trendiness and more about finding value, opportunity, and room to breathe. Detroit offers dramatically lower housing costs, growing job sectors, and a resurging cultural scene — but the pace of life, housing stock, and neighborhood dynamics require a more intentional approach than what many Long Islanders are used to.

Cost of Living & Lifestyle Comparison

Detroit is significantly more affordable than Long Island across nearly every category.

Key differences you’ll notice right away:

  • Home prices are often 60–75% lower

  • Property taxes vary widely by municipality and require careful review

  • Michigan has a flat state income tax, generally lower than New York’s

  • Utilities and insurance are affordable, though winter heating costs are higher

  • Everyday expenses like dining, parking, and entertainment are far less costly

Lifestyle-wise, Detroit feels very different from Long Island:

  • More space and less congestion

  • Shorter commutes and easier driving

  • A slower, more flexible daily rhythm

  • Strong neighborhood identities rather than dense suburbs

  • Four full seasons, including cold winters

For buyers focused on affordability and long-term upside, Detroit offers a compelling alternative.

Employment & Opportunities

Detroit’s economy has diversified well beyond the auto industry.

Major employment sectors include:

  • Automotive engineering and mobility tech

  • Healthcare and medical research

  • Manufacturing and logistics

  • Finance and insurance

  • Technology and startups

Large employers in the region include:

  • General Motors

  • Ford Motor Company

  • Stellantis

  • Henry Ford Health System

  • Rocket Companies

  • DTE Energy

Detroit also appeals to remote workers who want low housing costs while maintaining professional flexibility.

Education & Schools

Education quality varies significantly by area, making location selection critical.

Families relocating from Long Island often focus on suburban districts rather than the city proper.

Highly regarded school districts include:

  • Birmingham Public Schools

  • Troy School District

  • Bloomfield Hills Schools

  • Grosse Pointe Public School System

  • Rochester Community Schools

Higher education options include:

  • Wayne State University

  • University of Detroit Mercy

  • Oakland University

  • University of Michigan (Ann Arbor nearby)

With proper planning, families can find strong academic environments comparable to Long Island districts.

Real Estate Practices: What’s Different?

Michigan’s real estate process is simpler and faster than New York’s.

Key differences include:

  • Attorneys are not required; closings are handled by title companies

  • Shorter contract-to-close timelines

  • Older housing stock in the city; newer construction in suburbs

  • Much lower purchase prices with renovation potential

  • Property taxes vary significantly by municipality and school district

Buyers coming from Long Island are often surprised by how much space and architectural character they can afford — especially in historic neighborhoods.

Eric Berman REALTOR® can connect you with trusted Detroit-area agents who understand relocation, tax nuances, and neighborhood-by-neighborhood differences.

Logistics of the Move

Relocating from Long Island to Detroit requires planning, especially for weather and housing selection.

Be prepared for:

  • Cold, snowy winters and proper home insulation

  • A car-dependent lifestyle outside urban cores

  • Easier parking and shorter commute times

  • Detroit Metropolitan Airport with strong national coverage

  • Regional travel access to Chicago, Toronto, and Cleveland

Infrastructure is built for winter, making day-to-day life manageable year-round.

Community & Quality of Life

Detroit offers a mix of revitalized urban neighborhoods and strong suburban communities.

Popular areas include:

  • Birmingham: Walkable, upscale, strong schools

  • Troy: Family-friendly, corporate hub

  • Royal Oak: Younger demographic, nightlife, walkability

  • Ferndale: Creative, inclusive, and revitalized

  • Grosse Pointe: Historic homes, lake access, strong schools

  • Midtown Detroit: Cultural institutions and urban living

Lifestyle highlights:

  • Growing food, music, and arts scenes

  • Professional sports and major events

  • Strong community pride and local involvement

  • Access to lakes, parks, and outdoor recreation

  • Affordable homeownership opportunities

Detroit appeals to buyers who value space, character, and long-term potential.

Tips for a Smooth Transition

  • Research neighborhoods carefully — block-by-block matters

  • Compare property tax rates before making offers

  • Focus on suburbs if schools are a top priority

  • Budget for winter heating and maintenance

  • Work with Eric Berman REALTOR® to connect with vetted local experts

Your Move to Detroit

Relocating from Long Island to Detroit can unlock affordability, opportunity, and lifestyle flexibility that’s increasingly difficult to find in the New York metro area. With the right neighborhood and local guidance, Detroit offers real value and room to grow.

With Eric Berman REALTOR® guiding your relocation, you’ll gain trusted insight, local connections, and support throughout every step of the move.

FAQs

Is Detroit significantly cheaper than Long Island?
Yes — housing and daily expenses are dramatically lower. For a personalized cost comparison, visit 👉 https://www.theericbermanteam.com/contact-us.

Which Detroit suburbs are best for families relocating from New York?
Birmingham, Troy, Bloomfield Hills, and Grosse Pointe are popular choices. Learn more at 👉 https://www.theericbermanteam.com/contact-us.

How different is the real estate process in Michigan compared to New York?
Closings are faster and handled by title companies rather than attorneys. Get guidance at 👉 https://www.theericbermanteam.com/contact-us.

What is the biggest adjustment for Long Islanders moving to Detroit?
Winter weather and neighborhood selection are the biggest changes. For transition help, reach out via 👉 https://www.theericbermanteam.com/contact-us.

Is Detroit a good long-term place to buy a home?
Yes — affordability and revitalization trends support long-term value in select areas. For market insight, contact 👉 https://www.theericbermanteam.com/contact-us.

Eric Berman, REALTOR®
Compass Greater NY
917-225-8596
eric@ericbermanre.com
www.theericbermanteam.com