Climate & Environment in River rouge, MI

Updated 2026 β€’ Air quality, water quality, CO2 emissions & energy costs

River rouge's average Air Quality Index is 2 β€” rated Good by EPA standards.

Average AQI
1.8
US avg: ~36 ↓ better
Median AQI
2.0
typical daily reading
Worst AQI
5.0
peak recorded
Days w/ Poor AQI
52
US avg: ~15 ↑ more

Understanding the Air Quality Index (AQI)

The AQI measures air pollution on a 0–500 scale. Lower is better. Here's how River rouge's air quality compares:

0–50
Good
51–100
Moderate
101–150
Sensitive
151–200
Unhealthy
201–300
Very Bad
301+
Hazardous

With an average AQI of 2, River rouge falls in the Good range. The area experienced 52 days with poor air quality over the past year, which is above average. The worst recorded AQI was 5.0, remaining within acceptable limits even at peak pollution.

Environmental Quality in River rouge, MI

Key environmental health indicators that affect daily life, outdoor activities, and long-term wellbeing for residents of River rouge.

Air Quality Index
1.8
Good β€” safe for all activities
↓ Below US avg
Water Quality
6/10
Moderate; well-managed water systems assist quality.
~ Acceptable
CO2 Per Capita
14.7 t
US avg: ~14 tons/year
↑ Above US avg
Days Poor Air
52
above average
↑ Above US avg

CO2 Emissions Breakdown for MI

MI's total CO2 emissions are 147.8 million metric tons (14.7 tons per capita). This is near the US average of ~14 tons per person, typical for states with a diverse energy mix.

Electric Power 52.9 MMT (35.8%)
Transportation 47.5 MMT (32.2%)
Residential 19.0 MMT (12.8%)
Industrial 17.6 MMT (11.9%)
Commercial 10.8 MMT (7.3%)

Source: U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA), 2021 data. Values in million metric tons of CO2.

⚑ Energy Costs in MI

Energy prices affect monthly household budgets and are an important factor when evaluating the cost of living in River rouge, MI.

Electricity Price
19.88Β’/kWh
US avg: 16.41Β’/kWh
↑ Above average
Data: 2024-06
Natural Gas Price
$15.42/thousand cu ft
Data: 2024-05

Electricity prices in MI are above the national average. When budgeting for a move to River rouge, factor in slightly higher utility costs. Energy-efficient appliances and solar panel options may help offset this difference.

What River rouge's Environment Means for You

Air Quality: River rouge, MI enjoys good air quality with an average AQI of 2, well within EPA's "Good" range (0–50). Residents can expect safe conditions for outdoor exercise, gardening, and recreational activities year-round.

Water Quality: River rouge's drinking water scores 6/10. This is an acceptable rating, meaning the water supply generally meets safety standards. Some residents choose to use filtration for taste preferences. Moderate; well-managed water systems assist quality.

Carbon Footprint: MI's per-capita CO2 emissions are 14.7 metric tons per year (total state emissions: 147.8 million metric tons). This is near the national average of ~14 tons per capita, typical for states with a mix of renewable and fossil fuel energy sources.

Energy Costs: Electricity in MI costs 19.88Β’ per kWh, which is above the US average of 16.41Β’/kWh. Households in River rouge should budget accordingly for higher utility costs.

River rouge, MI Environment Overview

How's the environment in River rouge, MI? The area experiences excellent air quality with an average AQI of 2 β€” well below concerning levels. Water quality is rated 6/10. This page covers air pollution trends, water safety, and environmental factors that affect daily life.

Environmental Pros & Cons of River rouge, MI

βœ“

Pros

  • β€’Various cultural events
  • β€’Nearby Detroit for entertainment
  • β€’Access to public transportation
  • β€’Diverse food scene
  • β€’Historic sites to explore
  • β€’Family-friendly neighborhoods
  • β€’Good community resources
  • β€’Affordable housing options
  • β€’Close-knit community vibe
  • β€’Local parks for outdoor activities
βœ—

Cons

  • β€’High crime rates reported
  • β€’Some areas have poverty issues
  • β€’Social services may be lacking
  • β€’Economic instability concerns
  • β€’Limited nightlife options
  • β€’Perceptions of racism exist
  • β€’Struggling job market
  • β€’Declining school performance
  • β€’Transportation can be limited
  • β€’Not very diverse demographics

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the cost of living in River rouge, MI? β–Ό

The cost of living in River rouge, MI is 0% equal to the national average, with a cost of living index of 100 (where 100 represents the U.S. average). Housing typically accounts for the largest portion of living expenses. See full cost of living breakdown β†’

Is River rouge, MI a safe place to live? β–Ό

River rouge, MI is average in terms of safety, with crime rates near the national average. Safety varies significantly by neighborhood. View detailed River rouge crime statistics β†’

What are the best neighborhoods in River rouge, MI? β–Ό

The best neighborhoods in River rouge, MI depend on your priorities. For families, look for areas near top-rated schools with lower crime rates. For affordability, neighborhoods vary in price depending on proximity to amenities and schools. Explore River rouge on our interactive map β†’

How are the taxes in River rouge, MI? β–Ό

Tax rates in River rouge, MI include state and local components. The cost of living index of 100 reflects a moderate cost environment compared to the national average. View detailed River rouge tax information β†’

How does River rouge, MI compare to nearby cities? β–Ό

River rouge, MI offers comparable costs to nearby communities. With a cost of living index of 100, median home prices of $0, and a crime rate of 0 per 1,000 residents, you can compare these metrics side-by-side. Use the compare feature to evaluate specific cities.

What is the weather like in River rouge, MI? β–Ό

Weather in River rouge, MI varies by season. Air quality is good, with an average AQI of 1. View detailed River rouge climate & environment data β†’

Explore More About River rouge, MI

πŸ“… Last Updated: February 2026

Sources: EPA Air Quality System (AQS), U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA), NOAA, U.S. Census Bureau

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