Let the numbers do the talking.
Dearborn, MI vs Rochester Hills, MI
Dearborn, MI vs Rochester Hills, MI: What the data shows
Dearborn, MI is in Dearborn, MI while Rochester Hills, MI is in Rochester Hills, MI — both in the same state. On home prices, Dearborn, MI is the more affordable option at $175,700 median — $140,400 less than Rochester Hills, MI's $316,100. WYLT rates Dearborn, MI as “Good for now” — a solid choice worth serious consideration — and Rochester Hills, MI as “Good for now” — a solid choice worth serious consideration.
Rochester Hills, MI has the stronger safety profile of the two. Dearborn, MI has Moderate violent crime and Moderate property crime. Rochester Hills, MI has Low violent crime and Moderate property crime. On environmental risk, Dearborn, MI has Low flood risk and Rochester Hills, MI has Low flood risk.
Dearborn, MI is the more walkable neighborhood. Dearborn, MI scores 16/100 (car-dependent) versus Rochester Hills, MI's N/A/100. For families weighing school quality, both neighborhoods have the same school rating — Dearborn, MI rates 7/10 and Rochester Hills, MI rates 7/10.
| Category | Dearborn, MI | Rochester Hills, MI |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | ||
| Verdict | Good for now | Good for now |
| Median Price | $176K ✓ Lower price | $316K |
| Median Rent | $1K ✓ Lower rent | $1K |
| Median Income | $77K | $102K ✓ Higher income |
| Price Volatility | Moderate | Moderate |
| Getting Around | ||
| Walk Score | 16/100 ✓ More walkable | Car-dependent |
| Transit Score | Minimal transit | Minimal transit |
| Bike Score | N/A | N/A |
| Commute | 24 min ✓ Shorter commute | 36 min |
| Safety & Environment | ||
| Safety Grade | D+ | B ✓ Safer |
| Violent Crime | Moderate | Low ✓ Lower risk |
| Property Crime | Moderate | Moderate |
| Flood Risk | Low | Low |
| Air Quality | Moderate | Good ✓ Cleaner air |
| Community | ||
| Schools | 7/10 | 7/10 |
| Best for | Commuters to DetroitFamilies seeking affordable housingStudents looking for a lower‑cost area | FamiliesCommuters to DetroitEducated professionals |
Bottom line
Bottom line: If you’re looking for a more affordable home and a slightly better walkability score, Dearborn offers a cheaper option with a 24‑minute commute to Detroit, making it a practical choice for budget‑conscious commuters and families. Rochester Hills, while pricier and still car‑dependent, provides a quieter, more suburban environment and a similar school rating, which may appeal to families and professionals who prefer a less hectic setting and don’t mind a longer commute. Ultimately, Dearborn is better for cost and slight walkability, while Rochester Hills is better for a quieter, suburban feel.
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