Downtown

Downtown Detroit is not a bad deal for a city that's been declining for 50 years. Recent investments have made it more pleasant. It's close to the River. The cost for housing is not nearly what you would pay to live downtown in many other cities. There are great restaurants, and there's something to do every weekend with pubs, bars, and a vibrant music scene. One big problem is the crime. It's not too bad downtown. But if you're anywhere in Detroit, you need to be alert. Unemployment is also much higher here than other cities in the country. It was already a problem before the recession hit. However, CNN Money Magazine named Downtown Detroit as one the best place to retire. It's affordable and has improved. But you may have to drive out to do shopping, and there's still much work to be done.