Michigan

Detroit, MI Rental Market

Detroit is in the midst of a sustained urban renaissance, anchored by the global headquarters of GM, Ford, and Stellantis — the "Big Three" automakers — along with a growing technology sector. Ultra-low median home prices (the lowest of any major US city) produce extraordinary gross yields, making Detroit one of the highest-yield rental markets in the country. Investors who conduct thorough neighborhood-level due diligence can find exceptional cash flow in a city that is meaningfully improving.

Get a rent estimate for an address in Detroit

Average Rent in Detroit, MI

$1,020

per month · 2026-06

+2.8% year-over-year

Market Score

6/10

Key Facts — Detroit, MI Rental Market

  • Average rent in Detroit, MI:$1,020/mo
  • Median rent:$938/mo
  • Rent range:$500 – $2,250/mo
  • Most common rental (2 bedrooms):$900/mo
  • Active listings:1,200
  • Avg days to lease:38 days
  • Year-over-year change:+2.8%
  • Median home value:$95,000
  • Est. gross annual yield:12.9%
  • Data as of:2026-06

Rent by Bedroom in Detroit, MI

Average monthly rent for each bedroom type based on current active listings in Detroit.

Bedroom TypeAvg Rent/mo
1 Bedroom
$725/mo
2 Bedrooms
$900/mo
3 Bedrooms
$1,150/mo
4 Bedrooms
$1,400/mo
5 Bedrooms
$1,600/mo

Detroit Rental Market Statistics

Key indicators from the current Detroit, MI rental market.

Active Listings

1,200

Available now in Detroit

Avg Days on Market

38

From list to lease

Rent per Sq Ft

$0.81

Average across listings

Avg Square Footage

1,255 sq ft

Typical rental size

Rent Range

$500 – $2,250

Min to max active listings

Year-over-Year Change

+2.8%

Avg rent vs. prior year

Investing in Detroit, MI Rental Properties

Estimated returns based on current market rents and median home values. Perform full due diligence before investing.

Median Home Value

$95,000

Typical purchase price in Detroit

Est. Gross Annual Yield

12.9%

Before expenses & vacancy

Avg Monthly Income

$1,020

At average market rent

Gross yield = (avg rent × 12) ÷ median home value. Does not include expenses, financing, vacancies, or management fees. Analyze a specific property in Detroit for a full cash-flow breakdown including all costs.

Detroit, MI Rental Market FAQ

Common questions about renting and investing in Detroit, MI.

What is the average rent in Detroit, MI?

The average rent in Detroit, MI is $1,020 per month as of 2026. One-bedroom apartments average $725/mo, two-bedrooms $900/mo, and three-bedroom homes $1,150/mo. Midtown, Corktown, and New Center command significantly higher rents, while neighborhoods on the east and west sides offer lower price points.

Is Detroit, MI a good place to invest in rental property?

Detroit offers an estimated 12.9% gross annual yield — among the highest of any major US city — driven by median home values around $95,000. The Big Three auto companies, Rocket Companies, Henry Ford Health, and a growing tech presence provide employment anchors. Investors must research specific neighborhoods carefully, as performance varies dramatically across the city.

How competitive is the Detroit, MI rental market?

Detroit averages 38 days on market with approximately 1,200 active listings. Midtown, Corktown, and New Center are genuinely competitive with fast lease-ups. The broader city market is more moderate, reflecting the ongoing revitalization process. Well-maintained properties in improving neighborhoods lease significantly faster than the average.

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