River rouge, MI — Cost of Living & Relocation Guide
Population: 7,040
📍 Some data sourced from nearby metro area
About River rouge, MI
Welcome to our comprehensive guide to River rouge, MI. With a population of 7,040, River rouge features a cost of living index of 71.53 (28.5% below the national average of 100). The local economy supports a median household income of $26,343 (65% below the national average), while the real estate market offers homes at a median price of $84,000.
Explore our detailed crime and safety data (93% below the national average), school ratings, tax information, and climate data below. Compare River rouge with Detroit or other cities.
📅 Data last updated: February 2026 | Sources: U.S. Census Bureau ACS, FBI UCR, BLS
River rouge, MI Quick Facts & Key Statistics
💡City Insights
River rouge scores 8/10 for affordability, 10/10 for safety, and 6/10 for family-friendliness — an excellent overall profile. Its strongest aspect is safety, making it particularly suitable for those prioritizing security. This balanced profile makes River rouge worth considering for various lifestyle priorities.
Living in River rouge, MI
River Rouge is a small city located in Wayne County, Michigan, situated along the banks of the Detroit River. Known for its rich industrial history, River Rouge played a significant role in the automotive industry, primarily due to the presence of the River Rouge Complex, one of the largest integrated steel mills in the world, owned by Ford Motor Company. The city spans approximately 2.1 square miles and has a diverse population, characterized by its close-knit community and a mix of residential, commercial, and industrial areas. River Rouge has historical landmarks, including the iconic River Rouge Park, which offers recreational opportunities for residents and visitors alike. Residents enjoy a suburban lifestyle with easy access to the vibrant urban scene of nearby Detroit. The city also hosts community events, fostering a strong sense of belonging. River Rouge is served by the River Rouge School District, focusing on providing quality education to its students. Overall, River Rouge represents a unique blend of history, community spirit, and proximity to the dynamic Greater Detroit area.
How River rouge Compares
Black line indicates US average
💵 Affordability Calculator
Based on the 28/36 rule: housing costs should not exceed 28% of your gross income. Compared against local median income of $26,343.
Income Needed to Buy
Income Needed to Rent
Pros & Cons of Moving to River rouge, MI
Pros
- • Various cultural events
- • Nearby Detroit for entertainment
- • Access to public transportation
- • Diverse food scene
- • Historic sites to explore
- • Family-friendly neighborhoods
- • Good community resources
- • Affordable housing options
- • Close-knit community vibe
- • Local parks for outdoor activities
Cons
- • High crime rates reported
- • Some areas have poverty issues
- • Social services may be lacking
- • Economic instability concerns
- • Limited nightlife options
- • Perceptions of racism exist
- • Struggling job market
- • Declining school performance
- • Transportation can be limited
- • Not very diverse demographics
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cost of living in River rouge, MI? ▼
The cost of living in River rouge, MI is 28% lower than the national average, with a cost of living index of 72 (where 100 represents the U.S. average). Housing typically accounts for the largest portion of living expenses. See full cost of living breakdown →
How much does it cost to buy or rent a home in River rouge, MI? ▼
In River rouge, MI, The median home price is $84,000. requiring approximately $60,857 annual income to afford. Average rent is $1,224/month (requiring ~$48,970/year income). The local median household income is $26,343, making homeownership attainable for typical residents. Explore River rouge real estate data →
Is River rouge, MI a safe place to live? ▼
River rouge, MI is average in terms of safety, with crime rates near the national average. The crime rate is 1.7 per 1,000 residents. Safety varies significantly by neighborhood. View detailed River rouge crime statistics →
What salary do you need to live comfortably in River rouge, MI? ▼
To live comfortably in River rouge, MI and afford a median-priced home of $84,000, you would typically need a household income of $21,000 to $26,250 per year. The local median household income is $26,343. Renting requires approximately $48,970/year (at $1,224/month). See full affordability analysis →
What are the job opportunities like in River rouge, MI? ▼
River rouge, MI has an unemployment rate of 12.3%, which is above the national average of 3.7%. The median household income is $26,343, suggesting developing local economic conditions. View River rouge employment & demographics →
Is River rouge, MI growing? ▼
River rouge, MI has a population of 7,040. As a smaller community, population trends depend on local housing development, job growth, and quality of life factors. The affordable housing market and competitive job market shape migration patterns. See River rouge population demographics →
What are the best neighborhoods in River rouge, MI? ▼
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 throughout the city offer good value since the median home price of $84,000 is below the national average. Explore River rouge on our interactive map →
What is the commute like in River rouge, MI? ▼
Commute times in River rouge, MI vary by neighborhood and workplace location. As a smaller community, residents typically drive, as public transit is limited. The affordable cost of living may allow for housing closer to employment centers. Explore commute times on our map →
How are the taxes in River rouge, MI? ▼
Tax rates in River rouge, MI include state and local components. The cost of living index of 72 suggests a lower overall tax and expense burden cost environment compared to the national average. View detailed River rouge tax information →
How does River rouge, MI compare to Detroit? ▼
River rouge, MI offers a more affordable alternative to nearby communities. With a cost of living index of 72, median home prices of $84,000, and a crime rate of 1.7 per 1,000 residents, you can compare these metrics side-by-side. Compare River rouge vs Detroit →
What is the weather like in River rouge, MI? ▼
Weather in River rouge, MI varies by season. Climate data varies by season. View detailed River rouge climate & environment data →
Explore River rouge in Detail
📅 Last Updated: February 2026
Sources: U.S. Census Bureau (ACS), FBI Uniform Crime Reports, Bureau of Labor Statistics