5 Key Questions to Ask Before Renting an Apartment in Detroit

Detroit has been quietly reinventing itself in recent years as one of the Midwest’s most dynamic cities for renters. From restored historic buildings downtown to sleek new developments in Midtown and Corktown, Detroit offers a wide variety of apartments for rent that balance affordability with lifestyle.

What makes Detroit stand out is that you can still get the energy of a major city — restaurants, sports, music, jobs and more — without paying sky-high rents like in New York, Los Angeles, or even Chicago.

As of September 2025, the cost of living in Detroit is about 3% higher than the state of Michigan’s average and 3% higher than the national average. That’s a slight bump compared to a few years ago. But when you look at other big cities, Detroit provides an urban lifestyle while still keeping your budget in check.

Of course, finding the right place takes more than just browsing listings online. Asking the right questions before you sign a lease can help you avoid headaches down the line.

So, without further ado, here are five key things you should consider to make sure your new apartment truly fits your needs:

• Rent inclusions
• Neighborhood safety
• Lease options
• Maintenance work
• Transportation options

1. What’s included in the rent?

Not all apartments for rent in Detroit come with the same details. Some landlords include heat and water in the rent, which is especially handy during Michigan’s long winters. Others leave you to cover all utilities. You’ll also want to ask about things like trash pickup, snow removal, or Wi-Fi since those extras can really add up.

Parking is another big one. Downtown and Midtown can be tough for street parking, and monthly garage or lot fees can pile up. Knowing exactly what’s rolled into the rent makes it easier to compare places and avoid unexpected bills.

2. How safe is the neighborhood?

Detroit’s neighborhoods are unique, and safety can change from block to block. That’s why it’s important to do a little digging before signing a lease. Check local crime stats, ask people who live nearby, and visit at different times of the day to see how the area feels.

Areas like Corktown, Midtown, and Downtown are generally considered safe, but you should also pay attention to the building security. Features like secure entry systems, good lighting, cameras, or gated parking can make a big difference. It’s about both the neighborhood vibe and the landlord’s commitment to keeping tenants safe.

3. What kind of lease options are available?

If you’re moving to Detroit for the first time or aren’t sure how long you’ll be here, flexibility matters. Many landlords stick to the classic 12-month lease, but you’ll also find shorter options, month-to-month leases, and even corporate leases in some buildings.

Some property managers allow subletting or lease transfers, which can be a lifesaver if your plans change. Asking about this upfront gives you options and could save you money and stress later on if you need to move sooner than expected.

4. How does maintenance work?

A reliable landlord or management company can make your renting experience much smoother. Since Detroit has plenty of older buildings, maintenance issues like heating or plumbing problems can pop up.

Ask your landlord how tenants are supposed to submit maintenance requests (online, by phone, or by email), whether there’s a 24/7 emergency line, and how quickly they usually respond. If possible, try to get feedback from current or past tenants on how well things are handled. Fast, dependable maintenance can save you a lot of frustration and keep your apartment comfortable year-round.

5. What’s the transportation situation like?

Detroit is still mostly a driving city, but your neighborhood choice can make a big difference. If you don’t own a car, you’ll want to stick close to public transit — like the Detroit People Mover, QLine in Midtown or bus routes downtown. If you do drive, parking availability and costs should be on your radar.

Also think about commute times, highway access, and whether the area has bike lanes or car-share services. How you get around day-to-day should play a role in your apartment search as it affects both convenience and cost.

Renting in Detroit gives you the chance to live in a major city without draining your bank account. But before you sign a lease, come prepared with the right questions. Ask the landlord or property manager what’s included in the rent, how safe the neighborhood is, what kind of lease flexibility you’ll have, how maintenance is handled, and what your transportation options look like. Taking the time to get clear answers will help you find a place that truly fits your lifestyle.