Dearborn, MI: The 2026 Relocation Deep Dive

Dearborn: The Data Profile (2026)

Dearborn presents a complex economic picture for the 2026 relocator. With a population of 105,818, it functions as a mid-sized urban hub heavily integrated into the Detroit metropolitan economy. The primary statistical discrepancy facing incoming residents is the income gap: the median household income sits at $51,670, which is -30.7% lower than the US median of $74,580. However, this is partially offset by a lower educational threshold; 31.3% of residents hold a bachelor's degree or higher, slightly below the national average of 33.1%, suggesting the market favors skilled trades and specific industries over general white-collar credentials.

Statistical Target Demographic: The data indicates Dearborn is best suited for blue-collar professionals, automotive industry employees, and families prioritizing housing affordability over income maximization. It is less attractive for remote tech workers seeking high-salary leverage.

Cost of Living Analysis

While median income lags, the cost of living index offers significant relief. The aggregate index is driven down primarily by housing, which sits at 78.0 ( -22.0% vs national average). However, specific utility costs invert this trend; electricity averages 19.3 cents/kWh, significantly higher than the US average of 16.0 cents/kWh.

Table 1: Cost of Living Breakdown (Monthly Budgets)

Disposable Income Analysis: A single earner making the median salary of $51,670 takes home approximately $3,280 monthly after taxes. With a monthly expense of $2,510, the disposable income margin is $770. For a family of four on a dual-income median household wage ($103,340), the take-home is roughly $6,560. Subtracting the $5,850 monthly cost leaves only $710 in disposable income, indicating that while housing is cheap, lifestyle liquidity is tight for families.

Housing Market Deep Dive

The housing market is Dearborn's strongest asset. The median home price is $165,000, a -38.9% discount compared to the US average of $270,000. This makes the rent-to-buy ratio highly favorable for prospective homeowners.

Table 2: Housing Market Data (Buying vs Renting Analysis)

Buy vs. Rent Verdict: The data strongly favors buying. The monthly mortgage cost on a median home (assuming 20% down and 7% interest) is roughly $1,100, which is comparable to renting a 3-bedroom unit at $1,450. Given the low Price/SqFt of $135, equity accumulation is rapid compared to national standards.

Economic & Job Market Outlook

The post-remote work landscape of 2026 has impacted Dearborn's commute dynamics. With a local unemployment rate of 5.0% ( +1.0% above the US average of 4.0%), the job market is tighter than the national average. However, proximity to Detroit's corporate hubs allows for a 25-35 minute commute to major employment centers, mitigated by the low cost of living.

RTO Impact: As Return-to-Office (RTO) mandates solidify, Dearborn's location becomes strategic. It is within a viable commuting radius of Detroit, Ann Arbor, and Southfield. The high local unemployment suggests a labor pool ready to absorb industrial and manufacturing roles, stabilizing the local economy despite the wage lag.

Quality of Life Audit

The Quality of Life metrics reveal significant health disparities. While the aggregate Health Score is 78.1/100 (Good), risk factors are elevated. The smoking rate is 18.2%, significantly higher than the US average of 14.0%, and the obesity rate is 33.7% vs the national 31.9%.

Table 3: Quality of Life Metrics

Safety Analysis: Dearborn reports 449 violent crimes per 100k residents (US avg: 380) and 1,568 property crimes per 100k (US avg: 2,000). While violent crime is 18% above the national average, property crime is significantly lower, creating a nuanced safety profile.

Air Quality & Weather: The air quality is a standout feature with an AQI of 42 and PM2.5 levels of 6.5 µg/m³, well below hazardous thresholds. However, the current weather reflects the region's challenge: 36.0°F with mostly cloudy conditions.

Schools & Weather: Schools perform near the national median. The weather remains the primary lifestyle friction point, with winters consistently dropping below freezing (Today's low: 31°F).

The Verdict

Pros:

• Housing Value: Median home price of $165,000 is -38.9% below the US average.
• Air Quality: AQI of 42 and PM2.5 of 6.5 µg/m³ are excellent.
• Cost of Living: Overall index of ~88 provides significant purchasing power parity.

Cons:

• Income Lag: Median income of $51,670 is 30.7% below the national standard.
• Health Risks: Above-average obesity (33.7%) and smoking (18.2%) rates.
• Unemployment: Rate of 5.0% indicates a more competitive local job market.

Final Recommendation:
Dearborn is a Buy for 2026. The housing market offers a rare entry point for homeownership that is nearly impossible in other major metros. However, this decision is contingent on securing employment before arrival or maintaining a remote position paying at least the national median income. Relying on local wages will result in tight budget constraints despite the low cost of living.

FAQs (2026 Relocation Guide)

1. What salary do I need to live comfortably in Dearborn?
For a single person, a salary of $65,000 is recommended to maintain a healthy savings rate after the $2,510 monthly expenses. For a family, a dual-income household totaling $110,000 is the threshold for financial comfort.

2. How does the value proposition compare to Detroit or Ann Arbor?
Dearborn offers -22% lower housing costs than Detroit proper and -45% lower costs than Ann Arbor. It sacrifices the cultural amenities of Ann Arbor for price stability and proximity.

3. Are the safety statistics concerning?
The violent crime rate of 449/100k is 18% above the US average, but property crime is 21.6% lower. It is statistically safer than Detroit but more volatile than suburban outliers.

4. What is the best time to move to Dearborn?
Move between May and September. The current temperature of 36.0°F is a preview of the harsh winter. Moving in winter complicates the housing search and increases utility costs during the high-consumption season.