Neighborhoods of Dearborn, Michigan

Dearborn is a city in Wayne County, Michigan with a population of around 95,000 residents. Originally established as a farming community, Dearborn transformed into an industrial hub in the early 20th century when Henry Ford opened several auto plants in the area. While known today as the international headquarters of Ford Motor Company, Dearborn has developed into a diverse suburban city with a variety of distinct neighborhoods.

West Dearborn

West Dearborn makes up the western half of the city and contains some of Dearborn’s most notable neighborhoods.

Springwells

Springwells is one of the oldest neighborhoods in Dearborn, first settled in 1826. Located along the Rouge River, Springwells was home to several grist mills in the 19th century before transitioning into an industrial and residential area.

Today, Springwells retains much of its blue-collar roots and historic homes and buildings. The Springwells Historic District contains over 100 buildings of historical significance. Key landmarks include:

• Springwells Water Works Park – riverfront park with walking trails and remnants of the original Springwells Pumping Station building
• Rouge Assembly Plant – Ford’s oldest factory still in operation where F-150 pickup trucks are assembled
• Dearborn Historical Museum – contains artifacts and information on local and national history

The neighborhood also provides convenient access to Dearborn’s bustling Ford Road shopping district. Home prices in Springwells range from $150k-$350k.

South Dearborn

South Dearborn refers to the neighborhoods directly south of the University of Michigan-Dearborn campus. It features a variety of housing options, convenient amenities, and several community parks.

Key features and landmarks in South Dearborn include:

• University Hills Golf Course – public 18-hole course managed by UM-Dearborn *ист Dearborn Family YMCA – over 100,000 sq ft facility with pools, fitness center, walking track, and more
• Oxley Park – Large community park with baseball diamonds, playgrounds, picnic shelters
• Home prices range from $200k – $500k
• Mix of charming bungalows, brick ranches, colonials, and new luxury homes
• Close proximity to local schools, restaurants and shops

With its central location, suburban feel, and family amenities, South Dearborn is a highly desirable community for many residents.

West Downtown Dearborn

Serving as the primary downtown and city center for Dearborn, West Downtown Dearborn features government services, entertainment venues, cultural sites, offices, and more.

Notable attractions and locations include:

• City Hall
• Ford Community & Performing Arts Center – hosts theater, music, and dance performances
• Michigan Firehouse Museum
• Several restaurants, cafes, and bakeries
• Key office buildings for local professionals and businesses

The West Downtown area provides a quintessential downtown experience. Tree-line streets with wide sidewalks and historic two-three story mixed-use brick buildings create an inviting pedestrian shopping district. Several city lots and garages provide parking options in the area.

Home values range from $250k to over $1 million for luxury condos and brownstones. West Downtown appeals to young professionals and families alike with its central location and abundant amenities.

East Dearborn

While West Dearborn holds many of the city’s historic neighborhoods, East Dearborn offers more modern suburban communities that developed primarily after 1950. It features curvilinear streets and cul-de-sacs reminiscent of many post-war American suburbs.

Northeast Dearborn

Northeast Dearborn contains some of the city’s most recently developed subdivisions featuring sprawling homes on large lots. Neighborhoods like Dearwood and River Oaks Estate offer luxury living with custom estate homes over 3,500 sq ft.

Other features of Northeast Dearborn include:

• Easy access to major highways like Interstate 94
• Lowry Park & Nature Preserve – 90 acre wooded wetlands park with over 2 miles of trails
• Several upscale dining and shopping options
• Median home value over $550k
• New neighborhoods still under development
• Low crime rates

Northeast Dearborn appeals to upscale families looking for executive homes in safe communities.

Dearwood

One of Northeast Dearborn’s most exclusive developments, Dearwood features custom two-story homes starting at 3800 sq ft on half acre wooded lots. Mediterranean inspired architectural designs incorporating stonework, tile roofs, and ornate detailing create a village-like aesthetic. Home prices range from $750k to over $2 million.

Southeast Dearborn

While not quite as upscale as Northeast Dearborn, Southeast Dearborn still provides a solid mix of suburban living at more moderate prices. Neighborhoods like Maple Glen, Pleasant Ridge, and Dix-Vernor offer excellent local schools, vibrant parks, and convenient shopping.

Key features include:

• Excellent access to Ford Road shopping district and restaurants
• Several community parks like Dix Park, Crowley Park, Lapeer Park and more
• Median home values around $325k
• Built primarily between 1950-2000
• Brick ranches and colonials common architectural styles

Southeast Dearborn offers excellent family living without breaking the bank. Easy access to amenities combined with down-to-earth neighborhoods create an ideal environment to put down roots.

Neighborhood Comparison Table

Neighborhood	Key Features	Housing Stock	Median Home Value
Springwells	Historic charm; blue-collar roots; access to Ford Road shops	Historic homes, brick ranches	$150k-$350k
South Dearborn	Great amenities; prime location; range of housing	Brick ranches, colonials, bungalows	$200k-$500k
West Dearborn	West Downtown Dearborn	Downtown district; entertainment & culture	Mixed-use buildings, brownstones	$250k+
Northeast Dearborn	New luxury subdivisions; executive estates	Sprawling custom homes	$550k+
East Dearborn	Southeast Dearborn	Local schools; parks; convenient location	Brick ranches, colonials	$325k

Final Thoughts

While Dearborn has developed into a bustling suburban city over the past century, it manages to retain a certain small-town feel thanks to its network of distinct neighborhoods. From the Springwells historic district to the luxury subdivisions of Northeast Dearborn, residents can find a community that aligns with their lifestyle and budget.

Yet all neighborhoods provide access to Dearborn’s top-rated schools, extensive park system, and vibrant shopping districts. Supported by low crime and solid city services, Dearborn offers exceptional livability perfect for couples, families, and professionals.

So whether you’re attracted to charming bungalows, posh executive estates, starter ranches or urban brownstones, Dearborn likely has a neighborhood for you. Come join this thriving Midwest community that blends heritage with progress.