Pontiac, Pontiac MI — neighborhood review

Pontiac, MI

Pontiac · Oakland County · MI 48342

Updated August 4, 2026 · Would You Live There?

Think twice

Verdict

$101K

Median Price

37/100

Walk Score

8.6/10

Schools

38 min

to Detroit, MI

Score Breakdown

AAffordability
92/100
FSafety
18/100
B+Schools
86/100
FQuietness
30/100
B-Commute
70/100
FWalkability
37/100
WYLT Score56/100

Our Take

Pontiac offers very affordable housing and a short commute to Detroit, but the area suffers from low walkability, high crime, and a low median income. It’s not a great place for families or those who value safety and amenities. If budget is your only priority, it might be worth a closer look, but otherwise consider better options.

B.

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Map

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The Good

  • Very affordable homes
  • Low flood risk
  • Good commute to Detroit (~38 min)
  • Some bike infrastructure

Real Talk

  • !High crime rates
  • !Very low walkability
  • !Median income below national average
  • !Limited public transit options
  • $Higher property taxes due to low values but high crime may increase insurance
  • $Maintenance on older homes can be high
  • $Potential future infrastructure costs

Best For

Budget-conscious buyersRentersRemote workersFirst-time homeowners

Risk Snapshot

Flood riskLow
Violent crimeHigh
Property crimeHigh
Air qualityModerate
Price volatilityHigh

Crime & Safety

Pontiac, MI

F

Safety grade

Safety score18 / 100
High riskVery safe
⚠️Violent Crime
High
9.2incidents / 1,000 residents / yr
0Natl avg (3.7)11+

149% higher than the national average

🔒Property Crime
High
38.4incidents / 1,000 residents / yr
0Natl avg (19.5)59+

97% higher than the national average

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From Residents

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