Is Hazel Park Safe, Pros and cons of living in Hazel Park

Is it Safe to Live in Hazel Park?

Hazel Park faces challenges regarding crime, with both violent and property crime rates exceeding national averages. Violent crime in Hazel Park is 135.3 per 100,000 residents, which is 27.3% above the national average (as reported by FBI Crime Data Explorer). Property crime averages 182.6 per 100,000 residents, 11.6% higher than the national average (as reported by FBI Crime Data Explorer). The chance of being a victim of any crime in Hazel Park is about 1 in 54 (as reported by AreaVibes).

However, some data suggests a downward trend in crime. One report indicates that Hazel Park’s crime rate is 12% lower than the national average overall, with violent crime being 43% lower and property crime 5% lower than the national average (as reported by AreaVibes). This discrepancy might stem from different reporting periods or methodologies. Motor vehicle theft is an area where Hazel Park shows a better-than-average rate, with 6.8 incidents per 100,000 residents, significantly lower than the national average (as reported by FBI Crime Data Explorer).

Demographics and Community

Hazel Park has a population of approximately 14,983 residents as of the 2020 census (as reported by Wikipedia). The median age in the city is around 33 years (as reported by Wikipedia). The racial makeup of Hazel Park is predominantly White, accounting for about 81.1% of the population in 2010, with African Americans making up 9.7% (as reported by Wikipedia). More recent data indicates the population is 73.4% White, 11.0% Black, and 7.8% Multiracial (as reported by Census Dots).

The city is considered diverse within Michigan, ranking 75th in population and showing growth in its multiracial population since the 2020 Census (as reported by Census Dots). Hazel Park is home to a population where 97.3% are U.S. citizens (as reported by Data USA). The majority of residents drive alone to work, with an average commute time of 24.6 minutes (as reported by Data USA).

Cost of Living and Housing Market

Hazel Park offers a more affordable cost of living compared to many surrounding Oakland County communities (as reported by Niche.com). Housing costs, in particular, are a significant factor in this affordability. The median home value in Hazel Park is approximately $155,502 as of March 31, 2026 (as reported by Zillow). Last month, the average home price was $183,000, showing a 3.7% increase since last year (as reported by Redfin).

The rental market in Hazel Park also presents opportunities for affordability. The average rent is around $1,515 per month as of March 31, 2026 (as reported by Zillow). This is lower than the national average rent of $1,910 (as reported by Zillow). Housing expenses in Hazel Park are noted to be 62% lower than the national average (as reported by Payscale).

Job Market and Economy

The average annual salary in Hazel Park is approximately $45,197, which translates to about $21.73 per hour (as reported by ZipRecruiter). Most salaries in Hazel Park fall between $33,897 and $53,895 annually (as reported by ZipRecruiter). Certain high-paying professions in Hazel Park include Quality Manager, Police Officer, and Dental Office Manager, with these roles potentially earning over 41% more than the city’s average salary (as reported by ZipRecruiter).

Major employers in the Hazel Park area contribute to the local economy. Companies like Amazon, LG Electronics, and Bridgewater Interiors have a presence in the Tri-County Commerce Center, which has become a significant economic catalyst for the city (as reported by Ferndale Friends). Other notable employers include Walmart, McDonald’s, and Kroger (as reported by Indeed.com). The unemployment rate for Michigan was 4.3% in April 2026 (as reported by the Bureau of Labor Statistics).

Climate and Environment

Hazel Park experiences a climate typical of southeastern Michigan, with distinct seasons. The average high temperature is around 59°F, with an average low of 41°F (as reported by Livability.com). The city receives an average of 33 inches of rainfall annually and about 28 inches of snowfall (as reported by Livability.com). Temperatures can vary significantly, with summer highs often reaching into the 80s and winter lows dropping well below freezing.

The National Weather Service provides detailed forecasts for the region, indicating periods of showers and thunderstorms, particularly in the spring and summer months (as reported by the National Weather Service). Winters are characterized by cold temperatures and snow, while springs and autumns offer milder, transitional weather. The city is situated in a region with access to NOAA data for climate understanding and preparedness (as reported by NOAA).

Education and Schools

Hazel Park is served by the Hazel Park School District, which includes several schools within the city and some in neighboring Ferndale (as reported by Wikipedia). The district generally receives a “C minus” overall Niche grade (as reported by Niche). Hazel Park High School has an overall Niche grade of C+ (as reported by Niche).

State test scores indicate that about 12% of students are proficient in math and 27% in reading at Hazel Park High School (as reported by Niche). The district has a student-teacher ratio of 17 to 1, with 2,910 students in grades PK-12 (as reported by Niche). While some schools within the district receive lower grades, others are noted for their diversity and strong community feel (as reported by Niche).

Pros and Cons of Living in Hazel Park

Hazel Park offers several advantages for potential residents. Its central location within the Metro Detroit area provides convenient access to major expressways like I-75 and I-696, making commuting and travel easier (as reported by Niche.com). The city is also known for its more affordable housing costs when compared to neighboring communities such as Ferndale and Royal Oak (as reported by Niche.com). Established neighborhoods with classic home styles add to the city’s charm.

However, challenges exist. The crime rates in Hazel Park are a significant concern, with both violent and property crime rates exceeding national averages (as reported by FBI Crime Data Explorer). While some data points to a downward trend in crime, it remains an area to consider carefully. The job market, while showing some higher-paying opportunities, has an average salary that is lower than some other areas (as reported by ZipRecruiter).