Largest cities in Michigan

Access hyperlocal data to help you make a confident and informed decision.

Michigan, known for its Great Lakes and automotive industry, is a state that offers a diverse range of living experiences. With a population of approximately 10 million, it ranks as the 10th most populated state in the U.S. Michigan has seen stable population growth, driven by its robust economy and appealing living conditions. Bordered by Ohio and Indiana to the south, Wisconsin to the west, and Canada to the north and east, Michigan offers a variety of urban and rural living environments across its roughly 1,800 cities and towns.

Living in Michigan provides numerous benefits, including access to excellent education, a strong job market, and a rich cultural scene. The state's moderate population density allows for vibrant community life and ample opportunities for recreation and relaxation. Michigan's economy is diverse, with strengths in manufacturing, technology, and healthcare. The state's stable population growth supports sustainable development and economic stability. The AreaVibes list of the largest cities in Michigan, based on data from the United States Census Bureau's American Community Survey, offers a comprehensive overview of Michigan cities by population, highlighting the state's most significant urban centers.

Detroit Population: 692,044 Livability Score: 73

Area Size: 359 KM² Density (sq mi): 4,989 Med. Household Income: $48,936

Detroit, MI, known as 'The Motor City,' offers a unique blend of industrial history and cultural vibrancy. Located in southeastern Michigan, Detroit is a large city that played a significant role in the automotive industry. Major nearby cities like Ann Arbor and Windsor, Ontario enhance its status as a central hub in the Great Lakes region. Detroit's blend of historic landmarks, music heritage, and urban revitalization creates a distinctive living experience.

Grand Rapids Population: 204,117 Livability Score: 82

Area Size: 115 KM² Density (sq mi): 4,593 Med. Household Income: $77,546

Grand Rapids, MI, known as "Furniture City," is famous for its rich history in furniture manufacturing and its vibrant arts scene. Located in the western part of Michigan, Grand Rapids is approximately 30 miles east of Lake Michigan and 150 miles northwest of Detroit. This medium-sized city offers a perfect blend of cultural amenities and Midwestern charm.

Warren Population: 139,183 Livability Score: 74

Area Size: 89 KM² Density (sq mi): 4,051 Med. Household Income: $78,127

Warren, MI, known as 'The City of Progress,' offers a unique blend of suburban tranquility and modern urban amenities. Located in Macomb County, Warren is a large city that serves as a major cultural and economic hub. Major nearby cities like Detroit (15 miles) and Sterling Heights (5 miles) enhance its status as a central point in the region. Warren's blend of scenic landscapes, cultural festivals, and urban amenities creates a distinctive living experience.

Sterling Heights Population: 135,304 Livability Score: 73

Area Size: 94 KM² Density (sq mi): 3,714 Med. Household Income: $97,602

Sterling Heights, MI, known as 'The Heart of Macomb,' offers a unique blend of suburban tranquility and modern urban amenities. Located in Macomb County, Sterling Heights is a large city that serves as a major cultural and economic hub. Major nearby cities like Detroit (15 miles) and Warren (5 miles) enhance its status as a central point in the region. Sterling Heights' blend of scenic landscapes, cultural festivals, and urban amenities creates a distinctive living experience.

Ann Arbor Population: 125,691 Livability Score: 88

Area Size: 72 KM² Density (sq mi): 4,512 Med. Household Income: $103,170

Ann Arbor, Michigan, affectionately known as "Tree Town," is a vibrant college town located in the southeastern part of the state. Home to the University of Michigan, Ann Arbor offers a lively atmosphere, rich cultural scene, and a strong sense of community. The city's blend of academic excellence, historic charm, and modern amenities makes living in Ann Arbor an attractive option for students, families, and professionals alike.

Lansing Population: 122,139 Livability Score: 79

Area Size: 101 KM² Density (sq mi): 3,119 Med. Household Income: $65,826

Lansing, Michigan, known as "The Capital City," is a vibrant community with a rich history and a strong sense of civic pride. As the state capital, Lansing offers a unique blend of government, education, and industry, providing a high quality of life for its residents. The city's diverse cultural scene, economic opportunities, and welcoming atmosphere make living in Lansing an attractive option.

Flint Population: 99,436 Livability Score: 74

Area Size: 87 KM² Density (sq mi): 2,973 Med. Household Income: $44,927

Flint, MI, known as 'The Vehicle City,' offers a unique blend of historic charm and modern urban amenities. Located in Genesee County, Flint is a large city that serves as a major cultural and economic hub. Major nearby cities like Detroit (70 miles) and Ann Arbor (55 miles) enhance its status as a central point in the region. Flint's blend of scenic landscapes, cultural festivals, and urban amenities creates a distinctive living experience.

Dearborn Population: 97,662 Livability Score: 79

Area Size: 63 KM² Density (sq mi): 4,029 Med. Household Income: $84,669

Living in Dearborn, MI offers a unique blend of historical significance and modern suburban living. Known as the birthplace of Henry Ford and the home of the Ford Motor Company, Dearborn is steeped in automotive history. The city's rich heritage is complemented by its diverse cultural offerings and strong community spirit, making it an attractive place to live.

Livonia Population: 97,392 Livability Score: 77

Area Size: 92 KM² Density (sq mi): 2,728 Med. Household Income: $123,939

Living in Livonia, MI offers a perfect blend of suburban comfort and urban convenience. Located in the heart of Metro Detroit, Livonia is known for its family-friendly atmosphere, excellent schools, and numerous parks and recreational facilities. The city provides a safe, welcoming environment for residents of all ages.

Troy Population: 87,197 Livability Score: 77

Area Size: 87 KM² Density (sq mi): 2,606 Med. Household Income: $157,380

Living in Troy, MI offers a suburban lifestyle with a strong emphasis on community and quality of life. Known as one of Michiganâ€™s most desirable places to live, Troy is a city of growth and opportunity, with excellent schools, thriving businesses, and a wide range of amenities. The Somerset Collection, one of the premier shopping destinations in the region, offers a variety of high-end retailers, dining options, and entertainment venues.

Full list of the largest cities in Michigan

Rank	Location	Population	Area KM²	Median Income	Livability Score
1	Detroit	692,044	359	$48,936	73
2	Grand Rapids	204,117	115	$77,546	82
3	Warren	139,183	89	$78,127	74
4	Sterling Heights	135,304	94	$97,602	73
5	Ann Arbor	125,691	72	$103,170	88
6	Lansing	122,139	101	$65,826	79
7	Flint	99,436	87	$44,927	74
8	Dearborn	97,662	63	$84,669	79
9	Livonia	97,392	92	$123,939	77
10	Troy	87,197	87	$157,380	77
11	Westland	84,673	53	$78,771	76
12	Farmington Hills	82,920	86	$125,941	81
13	Kalamazoo	78,286	64	$63,220	76
14	Wyoming	78,208	64	$83,425	76
15	Rochester Hills	76,612	85	$149,532	76
16	Southfield	74,641	68	$88,214	71
17	Taylor	63,527	61	$78,179	76
18	Novi	62,295	78	$138,288	85
19	Pontiac	61,764	52	$52,427	64
20	Royal Oak	61,485	31	$123,168	82
21	St. Clair Shores	60,856	30	$91,979	78
22	Dearborn Heights	57,763	30	$75,947	79
23	Kentwood	53,236	54	$82,520	73
24	Battle Creek	52,232	110	$62,508	73
25	Portage	50,237	84	$97,253	79
26	Saginaw	50,125	44	$46,701	63
27	East Lansing	49,688	35	$60,642	85
28	Roseville	48,471	25	$72,825	71
29	Midland	43,447	89	$93,363	84
30	Muskegon	38,255	37	$53,631	79
31	Lincoln Park	37,282	15	$70,484	80
32	Holland	34,035	43	$88,262	82
33	Bay City	33,892	26	$57,269	68
34	Jackson	33,318	28	$54,913	74
35	Eastpointe	33,089	13	$74,581	73
36	Madison Heights	31,139	18	$82,660	81
37	Southgate	30,149	18	$87,800	84
38	Oak Park	30,129	13	$79,279	82
39	Port Huron	29,803	21	$60,585	65
40	Forest Hills	29,534	128	$195,405	76
41	Burton	29,181	60	$70,554	61
42	Allen Park	27,807	18	$104,229	88
43	Garden City	27,537	15	$86,605	82
44	Holt	26,494	41	$103,612	84
45	Mount Pleasant	26,060	20	$59,835	82
46	Walker	25,711	64	$96,059	73
47	Wyandotte	25,473	14	$80,863	88
48	Inkster	25,333	16	$48,236	67
49	Norton Shores	25,151	60	$97,861	69
50	Okemos	24,848	44	$114,993	84

Methodology

To compile the list of the largest cities in Michigan, AreaVibes used census data from the United States Census Bureau's American Community Survey (ACS). The American Community Survey releases updated estimates annually, offering a valuable resource for understanding the evolving dynamics within communities. These estimates are crucial for officials, community leaders, businesses, and local residents as they provide insights into demographic, economic, and social changes. By analyzing ACS data, stakeholders can make informed decisions, plan for future developments, and address the needs of their communities effectively. The detailed population information from the ACS helps track trends, allocate resources, and implement policies that enhance the quality of life for all residents.

Map of the population Density by State

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The map above serves as an excellent tool for discovering the most and least densely populated states across the United States. By highlighting both the states with the highest and lowest population density, it offers a comprehensive view of the nation's demographic landscape. This visual representation allows users to easily compare different regions, making it a valuable resource for anyone considering relocation or investment opportunities. Living in high density states could give you access to the following benefits: additional economic opportunities, enhanced amenities, improved health care, better infrastructure and technological advancement. Less densely poupulated states on the other hand, often have a lower cost of living, reduced traffic, closer-knit communities, abundant natural spaces and lower crime rates.