Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Sterling Heights, MI
Considering a move to Sterling Heights, MI? As one of the state’s largest cities with a population of 134,346, Sterling Heights combines affordable living (median home price $267,000, average rent $1,280) with low crime rates (violent crime: 134 per 100K). Residents enjoy a reasonable commute of 27.5 minutes, strong public schools, and access to major hospitals. The city’s diverse community, ample green spaces, and classic Midwestern climate make it a family-friendly and welcoming choice for your next home.
Demographics - Sterling Heights, MI
Demographics - Sterling Heights, MI
Sterling Heights is home to 134,346 residents, with a median age of 41.2 and a diverse community where nearly 19% speak a language other than English at home. The city features a balanced gender ratio and a strong representation of White, Asian, and Black residents, contributing to a vibrant multicultural atmosphere. Its suburban density offers a comfortable blend of urban convenience and neighborhood living.
Population:
134,346
Density:
3,800 per sq mi
Median Age:
41.2
Gender Ratio:
96 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
18.7%

Ethnic Composition
White:
77.5%
Black:
5.1%
Asian:
13.2%
Others:
4.2%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Sterling Heights, MI?
Sterling Heights offers affordable living, with a median home value of $267,000 and average rent around $1,280, both below national averages. The cost of living index is 95.8, indicating costs are slightly lower than the U.S. average, especially in housing and groceries. Residents benefit from moderate utility expenses and a flat state income tax rate of 4.25%.
Median House Value:
$267,000
Gross Rent:
$1,280
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$110
Auto Insurance:
$2,350
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,650
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$600
State Taxes:
Low:
4.25%
|
High:
4.25%
Cost Of Living Index:
95.8
Grocery:
94.0
Housing:
82.5
Utilities:
101.0
Transportation:
107.0
Health Care:
97.0
Miscellaneous:
97.0
Crime
Is Sterling Heights, MI a safe place to live?
Sterling Heights boasts a low crime rate for a city its size, with just 134 violent crimes and 1,048 property crimes per 100,000 residents. The likelihood of experiencing violent crime is about 1 in 747, making it a safe choice for families and individuals. This reputation for safety contributes to the city's strong appeal.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
134
Property Crimes Per 100k:
1,048
Crime Index:
1,182
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 747
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 95
Weather
What is the weather like in Sterling Heights, MI year-round?
Residents enjoy all four distinct seasons, with warm summers averaging highs of 84°F and cold winters dropping to 18°F. Annual rainfall is moderate at 32.5 inches, and about 48% of days are sunny, giving plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities. The classic Midwestern climate brings comfortable springs and colorful autumns.

Winter
Min:
18°F
Max:
34°F

Spring
Min:
39°F
Max:
64°F

Summer
Min:
62°F
Max:
84°F

Fall
Min:
42°F
Max:
66°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
32.5 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
48%
Neighbors
The community features a median household income of $72,700 and a poverty rate well below the national average at 7.7%. Most adults have completed high school, and nearly a third hold a bachelor’s degree or higher, reflecting a well-educated population. Commute times average 27.5 minutes, and unemployment remains low at just 4.1%.
Median Income:
$38,500
Household Income:
$72,700
Family Income:
$86,200
Per Capita Income:
$33,900
Income Male:
$50,800
Income Female:
$37,200
Poverty Rate:
7.7%
Non English Speakers:
18.7%
Rent:
$1,280
Unemployment Rate:
4.1%
Public Transport Usage:
1.2%
Commute Time:
27.5 minutes

Education
High School or Higher:
93.4%
Bachelors or More:
31.0%
Education
How are the schools in Sterling Heights, MI?
Sterling Heights offers strong educational opportunities with reputable public schools like Stevenson and Henry Ford II High Schools, as well as private and faith-based options. Nearby colleges, including Macomb Community College and Oakland University, are easily accessible for higher education. The city's schools are known for their committed staff and supportive learning environment.

Public Schools
Name:
Stevenson High School
Street:
39701 Dodge Park Rd
Phone:
586-797-1900
Students:
2,100
Student Teacher Ratio:
22.5
Name:
Henry Ford II High School
Street:
11911 Clinton River Rd
Phone:
586-797-1600
Students:
1,900
Student Teacher Ratio:
23.0

Private Schools
Name:
St. Anne Catholic Grade School
Street:
5920 Arden Ave
Phone:
586-264-2911
Students:
330

Colleges
Name:
Macomb Community College
City:
Warren
State:
MI
Distance:
6 miles
Students:
16,700
Name:
Oakland University
City:
Rochester
State:
MI
Distance:
12 miles
Students:
17,300
Healthcare
Sterling Heights residents have access to quality healthcare, with major hospitals like Beaumont Hospital and Henry Ford Macomb Hospital nearby. The area offers a physician ratio of 2.1 per 1,000 people and a high health insurance coverage rate of 92.8%. Healthcare services are robust, ensuring timely access to both routine and emergency care.

Major Hospitals
Name:
Beaumont Hospital, Troy
Address:
44201 Dequindre Rd, Troy, MI 48085
Phone:
(248) 898-5000
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Name:
Henry Ford Macomb Hospital
Address:
15855 19 Mile Rd, Clinton Twp, MI 48038
Phone:
(586) 263-2300
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
2.1
Health Insurance Coverage:
92.8%
Health Care Index:
72.5
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Sterling Heights, MI?
The housing market is stable and accessible, with a median home price of $267,000 and strong owner-occupancy at nearly 74%. Home values have appreciated by 4.5% over the past year, and rental vacancy rates are moderate at 5.9%. Both buyers and renters will find a range of options in a healthy, growing market.
Median Home Price:
$267,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$1,280
Owner Occupied Rate:
73.8%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
5.9%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
4.5%
New Construction Rate:
1.4%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.4%
DMV Information
Vehicle registration and licensing services are provided by the Michigan Secretary of State at a conveniently located office in Sterling Heights. Residents can access services both in person and online, making DMV tasks straightforward and accessible. The office supports a full range of driver and vehicle needs for Michigan residents.
State:
Michigan
Department:
Michigan Secretary of State
Address:
43015 Van Dyke Ave, Sterling Heights, MI 48314
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.