Detroit’s high property taxes are driving a housing affordability crisis – how can city leaders bring down costs?

Property tax reform in Detroit could boost homeownership and attract new residents and businesses.

By: Amanda Nothaft, University of Michigan, The Conversation

Outlets: The Conversation

Published: May 22, 2026

Words: 1,389

Last Updated: 2 months ago

Body Text Preview

By Amanda Nothaft, University of Michigan

Property taxes in Detroit, the highest among major U.S. cities, continue to burden the city’s low-income households. Failure to pay these taxes can lead to foreclosure.

Mayor Mary Sheffield advocated for property tax relief during her first State of the City address in March 2026. Sheffield proposed a 30% to 60% cut in property taxes in the city, a change Michigan lawmakers would need …

Create a free account to access this story and more

Join Plucky Wire to access full stories, collaborate with newsrooms, and discover content from networks around the world.
Register for Free Log in