🌍 Overview
As a seasoned digital nomad, I’ve had the pleasure of calling Detroit home for several months, and I must say, it’s a city that will surprise you. With its rich history, vibrant cultural scene, and thriving food scene, Detroit is an excellent choice for remote workers looking for a unique experience. The city’s motto, “Speramus Meliora; Resurget Cineribus” or “We hope for better things; it will arise from the ashes,” reflects its resilience and determination. As a digital nomad in Detroit, you’ll find a community that’s passionate about revitalizing the city and making it a hub for innovation and creativity.
Detroit’s vibe is a mix of industrial chic and small-town charm, with a dash of Midwestern hospitality. The city’s architecture is a testament to its history, with stunning examples of Art Deco, Beaux-Arts, and modern designs. From the iconic Renaissance Center to the picturesque Belle Isle Park, there’s no shortage of Instagram-worthy spots to explore. As a remote worker, you’ll appreciate the city’s relatively low cost of living, which makes it an attractive option for those looking to stretch their dollars.
🏘️ Best Neighborhoods for Digital Nomads
When it comes to choosing a neighborhood in Detroit, you’ll find that each area has its unique character and charm. Here are three neighborhoods that are popular among digital nomads:
- Eastern Market: This historic neighborhood is a hub for foodies and creatives. With its vibrant street art, bustling farmers’ market, and eclectic mix of shops and restaurants, Eastern Market is the perfect place to experience Detroit’s energy. Rent for a one-bedroom apartment in Eastern Market averages around $1,200 per month (approximately $1,500 USD).
- Midtown: This trendy neighborhood is home to many of Detroit’s startups and tech companies. With its beautiful parks, boutique shops, and thriving arts scene, Midtown is an excellent choice for remote workers who want to be in the heart of the action. A one-bedroom apartment in Midtown will set you back around $1,500 per month (approximately $1,900 USD).
- Corktown: This charming neighborhood is Detroit’s oldest, with a rich history dating back to the 19th century. With its picturesque streets, historic homes, and lively bars and restaurants, Corktown is a great choice for digital nomads who want to experience the city’s authentic charm. Rent for a one-bedroom apartment in Corktown averages around $1,000 per month (approximately $1,300 USD).
Cost of Living Breakdown
The cost of living in Detroit is relatively low compared to other major cities in the United States. Here’s a breakdown of what you can expect to pay for typical expenses:
- Rent: The average monthly rent for a one-bedroom apartment in Detroit is around $932 (approximately $1,200 USD).
- Food: Eating out in Detroit can range from $10 to $20 per meal (approximately $13 to $26 USD). Groceries are relatively affordable, with a basket of basic items costing around $50 to $75 per week (approximately $65 to $100 USD).
- Transportation: A monthly public transportation pass costs around $50 (approximately $65 USD). If you prefer to drive, gas is relatively cheap, with an average cost of $2.50 per gallon (approximately $3.30 USD).
- Coworking: Coworking spaces in Detroit typically cost between $200 to $500 per month (approximately $260 to $650 USD), depending on the amenities and services offered.
Internet & Coworking
Detroit has a thriving coworking scene, with many spaces offering high-speed internet and a range of amenities. Some popular coworking spaces include:
- WeWork: With several locations throughout the city, WeWork offers fast and reliable internet, as well as a range of amenities like printing, meeting rooms, and on-site staff.
- Bamboo Detroit: This coworking space is located in the heart of downtown and offers high-speed internet, as well as access to a rooftop garden and a range of networking events.
- The Gathering Space: This unique coworking space is located in the historic Fisher Building and offers fast internet, as well as access to a range of amenities like a fitness center and on-site parking.
Internet speeds in Detroit are relatively fast, with an average speed of 43 Mbps. You can expect to pay around $50 to $100 per month (approximately $65 to $130 USD) for a reliable internet plan.
Detroit has a thriving digital nomad community, with many meetups and events taking place throughout the city. Some popular groups include:
- Detroit Digital Nomads: This Facebook group is a great resource for connecting with other remote workers and finding out about upcoming events and meetups.
- Detroit Tech: This group is focused on the tech industry, but also welcomes digital nomads and remote workers.
- Nomad List Detroit: This group is part of the larger Nomad List community and offers a range of resources and advice for digital nomads living and working in Detroit.
Culture & Lifestyle
Detroit is a city that’s deeply rooted in its history and culture. From its vibrant music scene to its stunning architecture, there’s no shortage of things to explore and experience. Some popular attractions include:
- Motown Museum: This iconic museum is a must-visit for music lovers, with a range of exhibits and artifacts showcasing the history of Motown.
- Detroit Institute of Arts: This world-class museum features a range of art and artifacts, including works by famous artists like Van Gogh and Monet.
- Belle Isle Park: This stunning park is located on an island in the Detroit River and offers beautiful views, walking trails, and a range of recreational activities.
The food scene in Detroit is also worth exploring, with a range of delicious options to try. Some popular dishes include:
- Square pizza: This Detroit staple is a must-try, with its crispy crust and flavorful toppings.
- Coney dogs: These classic hot dogs are topped with chili, onions, and mustard, and are a popular snack throughout the city.
- Pierogies: These Polish dumplings are a staple of Detroit’s culinary scene, with a range of fillings and toppings to try.
As a digital nomad, you’ll typically enter the United States on a tourist visa, which allows you to stay in the country for up to 90 days. If you plan to stay longer, you may need to apply for a different type of visa, such as a work visa or a student visa. It’s essential to research the requirements and regulations for your specific situation and to consult with the relevant authorities to ensure you’re in compliance.
💡 Practical Tips
Here are some practical tips to keep in mind when living and working in Detroit:
- SIM cards: You can purchase a SIM card from a range of providers, including Verizon, AT&T, and T-Mobile. Prices start at around $30 per month (approximately $39 USD).
- Transportation: Detroit has a comprehensive public transportation system, including buses and a people-mover. You can also use ride-hailing services like Uber and Lyft.
- Safety: As with any city, it’s essential to take common-sense precautions to stay safe. Avoid walking alone in dimly lit areas at night, and keep an eye on your belongings in crowded areas.
- Weather: Detroit has a continental climate, with cold winters and warm summers. Be sure to pack accordingly, with warm clothing for the winter months and light clothing for the summer.
