Ann Arbor Times

A recent survey by the University of Michigan's Detroit Metro Area Communities Study (DMACS), in partnership with Outlier Media, highlights the primary challenges facing Detroit households as the city approaches its mayoral election in November 2025.

The survey, which is representative of Detroit residents, found that safety or crime is the top concern for 17.7% of respondents, followed closely by neighborhood conditions (16.4%), employment (15%), housing (14.9%), transportation (14.2%), schools (12.5%), and access to food (12%).

An issue brief released by DMACS and supported by U-M’s Poverty Solutions provides analysis of these results and offers insight into what Detroiters believe would help address these issues.

“Detroiters’ needs and priorities should shape the agenda for the city’s new leadership. Going into the election, the survey data offer insights into the day-to-day challenges that are most pressing for Detroiters,” said Celia Fan, DMACS data manager and co-author of the issue brief with Mara Cecilia Ostfeld, faculty lead of DMACS.

For those who identified crime and safety as a major challenge, less than half—47.1%—said a greater police presence would make them feel safer. Respondents also pointed to alternative solutions such as stronger gun control measures (4.6%), improved street lighting (4.5%), reducing vacant properties (4.4%), and increased support for neighborhood associations and block clubs (3.9%).

Regarding neighborhood conditions, residents most frequently called for better maintenance—including more consistent garbage collection and improved upkeep of streets, alleys, and vacant lots—(17.7%). Preventing illegal dumping was cited by 17.5%, while 16.6% wanted fewer vacant or blighted structures.

Employment remains a significant concern: three-quarters of those facing job-related challenges reported being unable to find work; one-quarter were dissatisfied with their current job situation. The main problem cited was insufficient pay—87.8% among those unable to find a job and 64.8% among those dissatisfied with their employment.

Housing affordability emerged as a central issue among respondents struggling with housing: 72.7% had difficulty finding homes that fit their needs and budget; 65% faced problems paying rent; 63.2% struggled with utility costs; another 63.2% had trouble maintaining their homes; and 60.9% found it difficult to keep up with home repairs.

Transportation was also identified as a major challenge: 77% said buying or maintaining a vehicle was difficult, while 69.3% pointed to high car insurance costs as an obstacle. In terms of public transit concerns, unreliable bus or rail schedules were mentioned by 47.8%, infrequent service by 41.4%, and insufficient routes by 38.2%.

School-related issues included calls for more educational options, safer environments, and smaller class sizes.

“While school-related concerns and getting the food they need ranked lower on the list of challenges that Detroiters face, these are still areas where residents see opportunities for city leadership to make improvements,” Ostfeld said.