Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Highland Park, MI
Considering a move to Highland Park, MI? With a population of about 11,000, this urban enclave offers some of the most affordable housing in the region—median home prices around $41,000 and rents near $850. While the cost of living is low, residents should be aware of higher crime rates and unemployment compared to national averages. The city has a strong sense of community, access to major Detroit healthcare, and public schools nearby, plus quick commutes averaging 29 minutes. If you value affordable urban living and proximity to Detroit’s amenities, Highland Park could be worth exploring.
Demographics - Highland Park, MI
Demographics - Highland Park, MI
Highland Park is home to nearly 11,000 residents, with a predominantly Black community making up over 85% of the population and a median age of 37.5. The city has a moderate population density and a small percentage of non-English speakers, fostering a vibrant and diverse urban atmosphere.
Population:
10,962
Density:
5,400 per sq mi
Median Age:
37.5
Gender Ratio:
88 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
4.7%

Ethnic Composition
White:
3.9%
Black:
85.5%
Asian:
0.4%
Others:
10.2%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Highland Park, MI?
Highland Park offers one of the lowest costs of living in the area, with median home values around $41,000 and average rents of $850 per month. Basic expenses, such as groceries and utilities, are generally below the national average, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious individuals and families.
Median House Value:
$41,000
Gross Rent:
$850
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$105
Auto Insurance:
$3,200
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$950
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$370
State Taxes:
Low:
4.25%
|
High:
4.25%
Cost Of Living Index:
83.6
Grocery:
91.2
Housing:
37.4
Utilities:
94.9
Transportation:
110.0
Health Care:
87.1
Miscellaneous:
92.0
Crime
Is Highland Park, MI a safe place to live?
Crime rates in Highland Park are higher than the national average, with residents facing a 1 in 42 chance of experiencing a violent crime. Property crimes are also prevalent, so newcomers should consider safety measures and neighborhood choice when relocating.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
2,400
Property Crimes Per 100k:
3,700
Crime Index:
6,100
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 42
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 27
Weather
What is the weather like in Highland Park, MI year-round?
The city experiences four distinct seasons, with cold winters averaging lows near 19°F and warm summers reaching highs around 83°F. Annual rainfall is moderate at just over 33 inches, and about half the days each year are sunny, offering a balanced Midwestern climate.

Winter
Min:
19°F
Max:
33°F

Spring
Min:
38°F
Max:
62°F

Summer
Min:
63°F
Max:
83°F

Fall
Min:
40°F
Max:
64°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
33.3 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
49%
Neighbors
Many households in Highland Park have modest incomes, with a median household income of $23,500 and a notable poverty rate of 43.7%. The area has a strong community feel, though unemployment is higher than average and public transit is used by about 10% of residents.
Median Income:
$19,600
Household Income:
$23,500
Family Income:
$29,200
Per Capita Income:
$15,400
Income Male:
$22,000
Income Female:
$17,000
Poverty Rate:
43.7%
Non English Speakers:
4.7%
Rent:
$850
Unemployment Rate:
15.7%
Public Transport Usage:
10.2%
Commute Time:
28.7 minutes

Education
High School or Higher:
73.5%
Bachelors or More:
7.8%
Education
How are the schools in Highland Park, MI?
Highland Park offers public and private schooling options, including the Highland Park Renaissance Academy and St. Benedict School. Nearby, students can pursue higher education at institutions like Wayne State University and Wayne County Community College, both just a few miles away.

Public Schools
Name:
Highland Park Renaissance Academy (K-8)
Street:
45 E Buena Vista St
Phone:
313-957-3005
Students:
430
Student Teacher Ratio:
19:1
Name:
Highland Park Renaissance Academy High School
Street:
15900 Woodward Ave
Phone:
313-957-3005
Students:
210
Student Teacher Ratio:
18:1

Private Schools
Name:
St. Benedict School
Street:
820 Sheridan St
Phone:
313-868-5103
Students:
130

Colleges
Name:
Wayne County Community College District
City:
Detroit
State:
MI
Distance:
4 miles
Students:
15,000
Name:
Wayne State University
City:
Detroit
State:
MI
Distance:
3 miles
Students:
24,000
Healthcare
Residents benefit from proximity to major Detroit hospitals, such as Henry Ford Hospital and Sinai-Grace, and most have health insurance coverage. With 2.1 physicians per 1,000 people, access to healthcare services is convenient for the community.

Major Hospitals
Name:
Henry Ford Hospital
Address:
2799 W Grand Blvd, Detroit, MI 48202
Phone:
(313) 916-2600
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Name:
Detroit Medical Center - Sinai-Grace Hospital
Address:
6071 W Outer Dr, Detroit, MI 48235
Phone:
(313) 966-3300
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
2.1
Health Insurance Coverage:
88.2%
Health Care Index:
66.8
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Highland Park, MI?
Housing is highly affordable, with a median home price of $41,000 and a rental market featuring average two-bedroom rents of $850. The city has a lower owner-occupancy rate and a relatively high vacancy rate, making it easier for newcomers to find both rental and purchase options.
Median Home Price:
$41,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$850
Owner Occupied Rate:
35.4%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
13.2%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
6.1%
New Construction Rate:
0.4%
Foreclosure Rate:
2.0%
DMV Information
Vehicle registration and licensing services are provided through the Michigan Secretary of State, with a conveniently located branch in nearby Detroit. Residents can access DMV services in person, by phone, or online through the state website.
State:
Michigan
Department:
Michigan Secretary of State
Address:
3046 W Grand Blvd #L-650, Detroit, MI 48202
Phone:
1-888-767-6424
Website:
Disclaimer: The information provided on this page is based on publicly available sources including AccuWeather, U.S. Census Bureau, local government data, and third-party partners such as Neustar. While we strive to ensure accuracy, all data is provided “as is” and should be independently verified before making any decisions. Movers.com makes no guarantees regarding the completeness or reliability of the information.