blog - Michael Perna

Where Are People Moving? Metro Detroit’s Hottest Growth Cities

Metro Detroit is turning a corner and gaining people, a trend that has locals buzzing. After decades of population loss and slow growth, new census data shows a modest but meaningful uptick in the region’s population, driven largely by thriving immigrant communities and new housing developments. In a tone of optimism and hometown pride, let’s dive into which Metro Detroit communities are growing the fastest, why it’s happening, and what it means for families and residents. This is the inside scoop from a lifelong Michigander’s perspective, offering friendly expert insights on where people are moving and why these areas are booming.

A Population Surge Fueled by Diversity and Immigration

Metro Detroit’s growth spurt is closely tied to its…

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From Forgotten Fairways to Future Greenspace: The Remarkable Revival of Detroit’s Rogell Park

Imagine a long-abandoned golf course in Northwest Detroit, its once-manicured fairways now a tangle of weeds. For years, the 120-acre Rogell Golf Course sat as an overgrown reminder of better days. Today, that forgotten fairway is on the verge of an inspiring transformation into Rogell Park, a sprawling new green space that’s about to breathe fresh life into the neighborhood. This revival isn’t just about adding another park to the city’s roster; it’s about turning a community eyesore into a community asset. Locals who grew up near Seven Mile and Lahser remember when the course was a point of pride, and they’ve watched its decline with disappointment. Now, as plans take shape to convert those idle acres into a nature park with trails and wetlands, there’s…

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Metro Detroit Home Prices Are Surging Again: What Buyers and Sellers Need to Know

Metro Detroit’s housing market is making headlines, and for once, it’s not the usual story of steady-as-she-goes growth. Home prices in the Motor City metro are soaring at one of the fastest rates in the nation. In fact, recent data showed Metro Detroit near the very top of U.S. cities for annual home price appreciation. Detroit even briefly held the #1 spot for fastest-rising prices late last year. This surge has caught the attention of families and industry experts alike. What’s fueling this sudden rise, and what does it mean for local buyers and sellers? Let’s break it down, with the friendly insight of a lifelong Michigander who’s seen a thing or two in this market.

Metro Detroit Home Prices Soar to the Top of the Charts

It might surprise…

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Detroit Ranked Among America’s Least Happy Cities: But There’s More to the Story

Detroit recently appeared near the bottom of a national “happiest cities” list, raising eyebrows and concerns. A 2024 study by personal finance site SmartAsset evaluated quality-of-life factors in 90 of America’s largest cities, and Detroit landed at No. 88 out of 90. By the numbers, the Motor City struggled on key metrics like income levels, health, and overall quality of life. Headlines made it sound like Detroit is one of the country’s unhappiest places. But talk to any lifelong Detroiter, and you’ll hear a more nuanced story. Does a low ranking mean Detroit is truly an unhappy city? Let’s unpack what the data says, why it might be misleading, and the real reasons locals still find plenty to love about the D.

The “Unhappiest Cities” Ranking:…

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Explore the Largest Bookstore in Michigan: A Maze of Hidden Literary Gems

Tucked away in the heart of Detroit’s bustling landscape lies a treasure trove for book lovers and adventure seekers alike. John K. King Used & Rare Books is not your average literary destination – it’s a sprawling four-story labyrinth of stories, history, and wonder just waiting to be explored. Step inside, and the scent of old paper and leather binding envelops you, instantly transporting you to a world where every one of the over one million books on the shelves has a tale to tell. This massive collection isn’t just the largest in Michigan; it’s among the largest in the entire United States. From the moment you enter, it’s clear that John K. King Books is less a store and more a grand adventure for the mind – a place where you’re invited to get…

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Things to Do in Downtown Detroit with Kids: Ultimate Family Day Out

Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a lifelong Detroiter who proudly reps the 313, downtown Detroit is brimming with family-friendly adventures waiting to be discovered. The Motor City’s center has transformed into a vibrant playground where locals, tourists, and new residents alike can enjoy world-class attractions side by side. From playful parks and interactive museums to classic Coney hot dog joints and over-the-top milkshakes, downtown Detroit offers something exciting for kids of all ages. This ultimate family guide, written in the warm, savvy voice of a lifelong Michigander, will walk you through the must-see sights, bites, and insider tips for an unforgettable day in the D with your kiddos. Grab your strollers and Tigers caps, let’s explore!

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The Best Affordable Michigan Beach You’ve Never Heard Of

Families in southeast Michigan who have trekked to the Upper Peninsula will tell you: the long, long drive is absolutely worth it. Tucked along Lake Superior’s coast, in a region most downstaters only dream about each summer, lies a hidden gem that’s both stunning and surprisingly gentle on the wallet. We’re talking about Twelvemile Beach – a pristine stretch of sand in Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore that was recently crowned the most affordable beach destination in the entire country. If you’re looking for an unforgettable Up North getaway that won’t break the bank, this low-cost Michigan beach should top your summer travel list.

Want a full list of the best U.P. waterfalls? Check out our Michigan's Ultimate Waterfall Road Trip

Pictured Rocks…

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Is It Smarter to Wait for a Recession Before You Buy or Sell a Home? What History, and Today’s Data, Really Says

You’ve seen the headlines everywhere: “Recession looming,” “Inflation uncertainty,” and “Mortgage rate volatility.” Conversations at work, at the local coffee shop, or even around the dinner table probably sound similar: “Maybe we should wait until the recession hits before making a real estate move.” It’s understandable. On paper, recessions seem like they should bring falling prices and lower interest rates, creating the perfect conditions to buy or prompting urgency to sell quickly before values decline.

But here's the truth from someone who’s been through multiple market cycles in Metro Detroit: real estate markets rarely behave exactly as expected. Instead of making emotional or speculative decisions based solely on the fear of recession,…

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Where to Ride Horses in Metro Detroit: Trails, Stables & Lessons

Whether you’re living in Metro Detroit or moving to Metro Detroit, discovering the region’s vibrant equestrian scene is a must for horse lovers of all levels. From serene wooded trails and scenic state parks to year-round lesson programs and full-service boarding facilities, Metro Detroit offers a diverse array of places to ride horses, learn horsemanship, and connect with a close-knit riding community. Whether you're seeking beginner-friendly riding schools, advanced training in dressage or hunter jumper, or a relaxing weekend trail ride through Michigan’s natural beauty, this guide highlights the top stables and equestrian centers across the region for lessons, trail rides, and unforgettable outdoor experiences.

Brighton Recreation Riding Stable,…

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Downtown Brighton, Michigan Is Booming: Here’s What’s New and What’s Next

Downtown Brighton is having a moment, and if you haven’t strolled through it lately, you’re missing out on one of Livingston County’s most compelling comeback stories. Once a quiet crossroads with a few mom-and-pop shops, this walkable downtown has transformed into a vibrant, evolving hub that blends historic character with exciting new energy.

From the charming storefronts of Main Street to the modern amphitheater perched on the scenic Mill Pond, Brighton has managed to hold onto its small-town roots while stepping confidently into the future. And the community has noticed, residents, developers, and day-trippers alike are all looking twice at this growing gem just northwest of Metro Detroit.

Downtown Brighton, Michigan, Facebook

A Walkable…

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