Downriver is a collection of 18 communities located along the Detroit River and western Lake Erie shoreline, just south of Detroit.
The region is known for its strong local identity, accessible recreation, and a mix of established neighborhoods, waterfront areas, and protected natural spaces. With convenient access to major highways, the airport, and Metro Detroit job centers, Downriver offers an easy balance between everyday convenience and a slower, community-driven pace of life.
What Makes Downriver Special.
- Miles of riverfront, marinas, and access to Lake Erie
- Expansive parks, nature preserves, and trail systems
- Commuter-friendly connections to Detroit, Dearborn, and Detroit Metro Airport
- Local shops, restaurants, festivals, and community events
- A wide range of housing styles and neighborhoods
- Strong community identity across its 18 cities and townships
Real Estate
Options in Downriver
Downriver offers one of Metro Detroit’s most versatile housing markets, with everything from affordable starter homes to premium waterfront properties along the Detroit River and Lake Erie. Buyers can choose from classic mid-century homes, modern subdivisions, condos, and spacious rural settings across 18 unique communities. With strong value, diverse neighborhoods, and options ranging from budget-friendly to luxury, Downriver makes it easy to find a home that fits your lifestyle and goals.
| Allen Park |
Allen Park is a centrally positioned Downriver city with immediate access to major freeways including I-94 and I-75, making it one of the most connected communities in the region for commuting throughout Metro Detroit. The city offers a well-established Parks & Recreation system that includes a community center, ice arena, youth sports programs, senior services, and multiple neighborhood parks. Allen Park’s downtown district is supported by an active Downtown Development Authority and a broad mix of locally owned businesses and dining options. Community amenities also include the Allen Park Public Library and the Allen Park Historical Museum, reflecting the city’s long-standing civic investment.
Residential areas are made up primarily of traditional, mid-century home styles with consistent lot patterns and attainable price points. Real estate activity remains steady, supported by Allen Park’s transportation access, municipal services, and strong demand for centrally located Downriver housing.
| Brownstown |
Brownstown Charter Township is a geographically large Downriver community offering a mix of established neighborhoods, newer residential development, and expansive recreational assets. The township maintains an active Parks & Recreation system with multiple parks, courts, athletic fields, a splash pad, dog park, community garden, and senior-focused programming. Brownstown is home to Lake Erie Metropark, which includes a marina, golf course, marshland museum, and miles of waterfront and natural areas that draw visitors from across Southeast Michigan. Community amenities also include access to the Trenton Veterans Memorial Library, local community centers, and the Brownstown Historical Museum.
Housing options range from traditional subdivisions to newer construction and properties with larger lot sizes, providing flexibility across a range of price points. Real estate activity in Brownstown is supported by continued residential growth, proximity to I-75 and I-275, and steady demand from buyers seeking space, recreation access, and regional connectivity.
| Ecorse |
Ecorse is a historic Downriver city located along the Detroit River, positioned just south of Detroit with direct access to regional transportation corridors. The city offers river-adjacent parks, community facilities, and a public library, supported by an active Parks & Recreation system and long-term planning through its Parks and Recreation Master Plan. Ecorse maintains municipal services including public works, water and sewer infrastructure, and city-managed community programs that support daily living and redevelopment efforts.
Housing options consist primarily of established residential neighborhoods with traditional home styles and attainable price points relative to surrounding riverfront communities. Real estate activity reflects steady demand driven by proximity to Detroit, river access, and ongoing public and private reinvestment. With its waterfront location, infrastructure focus, and central positioning within Downriver, Ecorse remains a practical option for buyers seeking value near the Detroit River.
| Flat Rock |
Flat Rock is a Downriver city centered along the Huron River, with a strong connection to outdoor recreation, trails, and river-based activities. The community features a well-developed recreation system that includes the Flat Rock Community Center, aquatic and fitness facilities, and multiple parks such as Huroc Park and Fountain Park. Flat Rock also offers direct access to paddling, kayaking, and canoe rentals, along with a public boat ramp and connections to the Downriver Linked Greenways trail network. Local amenities include a downtown business district supported by the Downtown Development Authority, a public library, community clubs, and event venues like Stone Creek Event Center and Flat Rock Speedway.
Housing consists largely of established residential neighborhoods with a mix of traditional home styles and a range of price points. Real estate activity benefits from Flat Rock’s river access, recreation assets, and steady demand from buyers seeking a balance of community amenities and outdoor lifestyle within Downriver.
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Gibraltar
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Gibraltar is a waterfront Downriver city located along the Detroit River, known for its network of canals, islands, and direct boating access to Lake Erie. The community is closely connected to outdoor and waterfront amenities, including Humbug Marina and proximity to the Detroit River International Wildlife Refuge at Humbug Marsh. Gibraltar supports local engagement through city-managed parks and recreation, a public library, community centers, and senior services. The city also maintains an active Downtown Development Authority and a growing base of locally owned businesses, including riverfront dining.
Housing options include established residential neighborhoods, canal-front homes, and properties with direct river access, contributing to limited-inventory waterfront demand. Real estate activity is shaped by long-term ownership trends, boating-oriented lifestyles, and Gibraltar’s distinct position as one of Downriver’s most water-focused communities.
| Grosse Ile |
Grosse Ile Township is a river-surrounded island community in the southern Detroit River, accessed via the Grosse Ile Parkway Bridge and the Grosse Ile Toll Bridge. The township is defined by extensive shoreline, marinas, yacht clubs, and canal systems, along with a strong network of protected natural areas supported by the Grosse Ile Nature and Land Conservancy. Community life centers around township-led recreation programming, Water’s Edge Pool, Centennial Farm facilities, Islandfest, and year-round events coordinated through the township calendar. Grosse Ile also features a unique Airport Commerce Park anchored by the Grosse Ile Municipal Airport, aviation services, and helicopter tours.
Housing options range from established interior neighborhoods to canal-front and direct riverfront properties, including custom homes and limited-inventory waterfront real estate. Market activity is shaped by long-term ownership trends, constrained supply, and consistent demand for island and waterfront living within Downriver.
| Huron Township |
Huron Charter Township is one of Downriver’s more spacious communities, offering a mix of residential neighborhoods, preserved natural areas, and access to major transportation routes connecting the region. The township is known for its extensive outdoor amenities, including Crosswinds Marsh and proximity to Oakwoods, Willow, and Lower Huron Metroparks, providing miles of trails, nature centers, and recreational facilities. Local services include a senior recreation center, parks and recreation programming, volunteer initiatives, and access to the Romulus Public Library.
Housing options range from traditional subdivisions to properties with larger lots, reflecting the township’s blend of suburban and open-space environments. Real estate activity is supported by steady demand from buyers seeking room to spread out while remaining close to employment corridors and Detroit Metro Airport. With its emphasis on land preservation, recreation, and community services, Huron Township offers a distinct lifestyle within the Downriver region.
| Lincoln Park |
Lincoln Park is a centrally located Downriver city positioned between Detroit and the core Downriver corridor, offering direct access to major roadways and regional employment centers. The city maintains an active Parks & Recreation system, multiple community facilities, and a well-used public library that supports year-round programming. Lincoln Park is also home to a Citizens Patrol Watch program and city-managed emergency alert system, reflecting a strong emphasis on resident engagement and communication.
Housing throughout the city consists largely of established residential neighborhoods with traditional home styles and attainable price points. Real estate activity remains steady, supported by long-term ownership patterns and consistent buyer interest. With its central location, municipal services, and wide range of local businesses and recreation options, Lincoln Park continues to serve as a key residential hub within Downriver.
| Melvindale |
Melvindale is a centrally located Downriver city known for its compact layout, established neighborhoods, and strong access to regional transportation routes. The community offers city-maintained parks, a public library, recreation facilities, and a community event center that hosts year-round programming.
Melvindale’s housing stock is primarily residential, with a mix of traditional home styles and attainable price points. Its location near major employment corridors makes it a practical choice for buyers prioritizing accessibility and value within Metro Detroit.
| River Rouge |
River Rouge is a Downriver city located along the Detroit River, positioned just south of Detroit with close proximity to major industrial, transportation, and employment corridors. The community offers a network of city parks and facilities, including Belanger Park, Memorial Park, and a public splash pad, along with a senior community center and public library. River Rouge is also actively engaged in environmental and waterfront initiatives through partnerships such as the Friends of the Rouge Watershed program. Local identity is reinforced through the River Rouge Historical Museum and ongoing community development efforts.
Housing throughout the city consists primarily of established residential neighborhoods with traditional home styles and accessible price points. Real estate activity is influenced by River Rouge’s riverfront location, infrastructure investment, and continued interest from buyers seeking value near Detroit and the Downriver core.
Riverview |
Riverview is a Downriver city located along the Detroit River, offering a balance of established residential neighborhoods, recreational amenities, and convenient regional access. The city maintains an active Parks & Recreation system with multiple neighborhood parks, senior programming, and community events, along with the Riverview Public Library. Riverview is also home to Riverview Highlands Golf Course and a public boat launch, providing both inland and river-based recreation opportunities. Municipal services include a dedicated community development department, land preservation initiatives, and well-defined zoning and code enforcement programs.
Housing consists primarily of traditional single-family neighborhoods with consistent lot patterns and a range of attainable price points. Real estate activity remains steady, supported by long-term ownership, river proximity, and Riverview’s position within the central Downriver corridor.
| Rockwood |
Rockwood is a small Downriver city located along the western edge of Lake Erie, offering close access to regional parks, waterways, and outdoor recreation. The community is closely connected to Lake Erie Metropark, which features a marina, golf course, marshland museum, and waterfront amenities that draw visitors from across Southeast Michigan. Rockwood also benefits from nearby access to the Huron River Water Trail, supporting kayaking and paddling activities. Local amenities include a community center, senior services, and active civic groups such as the Beautification Committee and Rotary Club.
Housing in Rockwood consists primarily of established residential neighborhoods with traditional home styles and attainable price points. Real estate activity is supported by Rockwood’s proximity to Lake Erie, recreational assets, and its quieter setting within the Downriver region.
| Romulus |
Romulus is a large, centrally located Downriver city best known as the home of Detroit Metro Airport, providing unmatched regional and national connectivity. The community supports an active Parks & Recreation system with multiple neighborhood parks, an athletic center, and access to Lower Huron Metropark’s trails and riverfront recreation. Romulus features a growing downtown district with community events such as the Pumpkin Festival and Sounds in the R-District, along with a downtown historical park. Local amenities include a public library, organized community groups, and a wide range of residential HOAs across established neighborhoods and newer developments.
Housing options range from traditional subdivisions to newer construction and properties with larger lot sizes, offering flexibility across price points. Real estate activity is influenced by Romulus’s transportation access, available land, and continued investment in recreation and downtown programming.
| Southgate |
Southgate is a centrally located Downriver city known for its strong municipal infrastructure, established neighborhoods, and convenient access to major roadways throughout the region. The city supports community life through an active Parks & Recreation system, an ice arena, senior services, and year-round programming and events. Southgate features a broad commercial corridor with retail, dining, and local services that serve both residents and surrounding communities.
Housing stock is primarily made up of traditional mid-century neighborhoods with consistent lot sizes and a wide range of attainable price points. Real estate activity remains steady due to Southgate’s central location, service-driven layout, and continued buyer demand within the Downriver core.
| Taylor |
Taylor is one of Downriver’s largest and most centrally located cities, offering extensive access to major freeways, regional employment centers, and Detroit Metro Airport. The city supports a wide range of amenities through its Parks & Recreation system, including Heritage Park, multiple neighborhood parks, pools, splash pads, and the Taylor Sportsplex. Taylor is also home to major retail and entertainment destinations such as Southland Center, along with community-focused attractions including the Taylor Conservatory and Botanical Garden and the Veterans Museum. Municipal services are broad and well-established, with dedicated departments for planning, economic development, housing, and public works.
Housing options span long-established neighborhoods, newer subdivisions, and a variety of price points, making Taylor one of the most flexible residential markets in Downriver. Real estate activity remains steady due to Taylor’s size, infrastructure, and continued demand for centrally located housing with access to amenities.
| Trenton |
Trenton is a riverfront Downriver city located along the Detroit River, known for its established neighborhoods, walkable downtown, and strong connection to outdoor recreation. The city supports an active Parks & Recreation system, including Kennedy Aquatic Center, Kennedy Ice Rink, and a network of city parks and trails recognized through Trenton’s designation as a Trail Town. Trenton offers direct access to regional waterfront destinations such as Elizabeth Park, the Elizabeth Park Marina, and the Detroit River International Wildlife Refuge. Community life is anchored by a Downtown Development Authority–supported business district, a designated social district, and a wide range of local dining, retail, and services.
Housing consists primarily of traditional residential neighborhoods with consistent lot sizes and a range of price points. Real estate activity remains steady, driven by Trenton’s river access, downtown amenities, and long-term demand within the central Downriver corridor.
| Woodhaven |
Woodhaven is a centrally located Downriver city known for its strong retail presence, recreational amenities, and convenient access to I-75 and surrounding communities. The city supports an active Parks & Recreation Department, with Civic Center Park serving as a focal point for community events, recreation programming, and seasonal activities. Woodhaven offers a wide mix of entertainment and lifestyle options, including Emagine Theater, bowling, indoor golf, family entertainment centers, and locally owned businesses. Community resources also include senior services, organized civic groups, and access to the Trenton Veterans Memorial Library.
Housing consists primarily of established residential neighborhoods alongside newer development, offering a range of home styles and price points. Real estate activity remains steady due to Woodhaven’s location, amenities, and continued demand within the central Downriver corridor.
| Wyandotte |
Wyandotte is a historic riverfront Downriver city known for its walkable downtown, active arts scene, and strong connection to the Detroit River. The city supports a wide range of community programming through its Recreation, Leisure & Culture Department, senior services at the Copeland Center, and a robust calendar of city-sponsored events. Wyandotte’s Downtown Development Authority anchors a vibrant business district that includes dining, shopping, entertainment venues, and a designated social district. Cultural amenities include the Wyandotte Art and Glass Center, outdoor public art installations, museums, and signature events such as the Wyandotte Street Art Fair. Parks and facilities are woven throughout the city, including Yack Arena, waterfront spaces, and Wyandotte Shores Golf Course.
Housing options range from historic neighborhoods to established residential streets with a variety of home styles and price points, supporting steady real estate activity driven by location, walkability, and long-term demand.
