Let the numbers do the talking.
Dearborn, MI vs Flint, MI
Dearborn, MI vs Flint, MI: What the data shows
Dearborn, MI is in Dearborn, MI while Flint, MI is in Flint, MI — both in the same state. WYLT rates Dearborn, MI as “Good for now” — a solid choice worth serious consideration — and Flint, MI as “Hard pass” — a neighborhood WYLT does not recommend.
Dearborn, MI has the stronger safety profile of the two. Dearborn, MI has Moderate violent crime and Moderate property crime. Flint, MI has High violent crime and High property crime. On environmental risk, Dearborn, MI has Low flood risk and Flint, MI has Low flood risk.
Flint, MI is the more walkable neighborhood. Dearborn, MI scores 16/100 (car-dependent) versus Flint, MI's 26/100 (mostly car-dependent). For families weighing school quality, Dearborn, MI has the higher school rating — Dearborn, MI rates 7/10 and Flint, MI rates 6.9/10.
| Category | Dearborn, MI | Flint, MI |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | ||
| Verdict | Good for now | Hard pass |
| Median Price | $176K | N/A |
| Median Rent | $1K | $897 ✓ Lower rent |
| Median Income | $77K ✓ Higher income | $51K |
| Price Volatility | Moderate ✓ More stable | High |
| Getting Around | ||
| Walk Score | 16/100 | 26/100 ✓ More walkable |
| Transit Score | Minimal transit | 66/100 ✓ Better transit |
| Bike Score | N/A | 67/100 ✓ More bikeable |
| Commute | 24 min ✓ Shorter commute | 78 min |
| Safety & Environment | ||
| Safety Grade | D+ ✓ Safer | F |
| Violent Crime | Moderate ✓ Lower risk | High |
| Property Crime | Moderate ✓ Lower risk | High |
| Flood Risk | Low | Low |
| Air Quality | Moderate | Moderate |
| Community | ||
| Schools | 7/10 ✓ Better schools | 6.9/10 |
| Best for | Commuters to DetroitFamilies seeking affordable housingStudents looking for a lower‑cost area | budget-conscious renterspublic transit usersshort-term housing seekers |
Bottom line
Dearborn is the better choice for most people due to its more affordable home prices, shorter commute to Detroit, and decent schools, making it suitable for families and commuters. Flint is only suitable for those with a tight budget and limited options, and even then, its high crime and lack of amenities are significant drawbacks. Overall, Dearborn offers a more balanced and livable environment for those who can afford it.
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