Eleven miles from downtown Detroit, the city of Ecorse is part of the Downriver community, a collection of 19 cities and townships just south of Detroit. One of the oldest municipalities in Wayne County, Ecorse's position on the river made it a shipping destination before it became an industrial and automotive hub in 1923. The residential parts of the city were constructed for factory workers after the Michigan Steel Mill opened, and it quickly became an “inner-ring suburb” of Detroit. After being in economic decline for decades, the city is turning around with small, steady gains in population growth and increasingly accessible public amenities, like walking and biking connections throughout the revitalizing area. Railroad tracks bisect the city, and the Ecorse River forms its southern boundary. Just short of the US/Canadian border, Ecorse is also home to Mud Island, a part of the Detroit River International Wildlife Refuge.
2023 saw several significant new developments for the city – from the extensive work on the library to revitalized green spaces to the new public transportation system. “Those new developments, and Ecorse’s location on the waterfront, have slowly helped contribute to the city’s population growth,” says Jozsef Trattner, a Realtor with Real Estate One-Novi with 16 years of experience. “I grew up downriver, so this is an exciting time,” he says. Trattner pointed out how a two-bedroom brick colonial on a corner lot was recently listed at $195,000 and garnered a surprising amount of interest. "It was within walking distance of the neighboring city of Wyandotte, which has small shops and new eateries,” he says. “It also had million-dollar panoramic views of the water. Everyone who saw it wanted it.” The interest in that house, combined with steady population gains and increasing amenities, indicates that the city is on an upward trend.
Midcentury homes built for industrial workers
Today’s Ecorse developed between the early 1900s and the 1950s. Many of the single-family houses in the area reflect this with vintage architectural styles and features like dormer windows and expansive front porches. Homebuyers can choose from traditional colonial-style buildings, bungalows and Craftsman houses along the tree-lined streets. There are also some Victorian and ranch-style dwellings and numerous mid-century modern homes. Many of these require some level of restoration, from cosmetic to structural. Most have modestly sized lawns, and lots are available throughout the city. Prices range from $45,000 for a three-bedroom bungalow to $145,000 for a three-bedroom updated colonial.
Contemporary brick homes on large lots can be found in Ecorse.
In Ecorse, there are also a variety of brick Tudor and Cottage-style homes.
Traditional homes with large covered porches are common throughout Ecorse.
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Revamped buses and new bike lanes
Public transportation in Ecorse has significantly improved in recent years. The city adopted a modern bus fleet with interactive screens, wireless internet and other features. Bus stops are found throughout the area but are concentrated along Jefferson Avenue and Outer Drive. Several new bike paths have been built, and sidewalks of varying conditions connect different parts of the city. For those who need to travel by car, Interstate 75 and State Route M-85 are just over 2 miles west of the community. Major local roadways include Visger and Southfield Roads, Jefferson Avenue and Outer Drive.
Hands-on learning, reward programs and technical education
Ecorse Public Schools operates multiple facilities for the children of Ecorse. These include Ralph J. Bunche Elementary, Grandport Academy and Ecorse High. All three earned a D or above from Niche. Bunche Elementary is the home of the Little Raiders. It uses technology enrichment classes and multi-sensory learning techniques, like hands-on, interactive activities, to enhance students’ skills and curiosity. Grandport Academy recently opened the Grand Stand, a reward program that allows students who’ve earned enough points to choose snacks, gift cards and more in the once-a-month pop-up store. Ecorse High offers career and technical education courses like automotive mechanics, graphic design, and radio and TV production.
Gyros, burritos, beers and groceries
Ecorse is a transitioning industrial/residential area. It’s near Wyandotte's shops and eateries but has its own unique options, too. Groceries are easy to find at O’Brien’s Market on Southfield Road or Ecorse Market on Visger. Downriver Bar and Grill is a popular hangout for pool, darts and a couple of beers, while award-winning Greek restaurant Auburn Cafe has been welcoming customers for over 40 years. Taco Especial was opened in 1979 by a husband-and-wife team. The colorfully painted building has seen generations of diners enjoy the authentic Mexican flavors of chimichangas and its signature “chunky beef” burrito.
The Auburn Café, Serving authentic Greek food in Ecorse.
Dip Net Bait and Tackle shop located next to Riverside Coney Island in Ecorse.
Find familiar, big-box retailers in Ecorse.
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Rehabbed green spaces by the Detroit River
The city has been working to improve its nearly 20 acres of public green spaces. Many of them are pocket parks, like Beach and Cicotte. This 1.5-acre green space is adjacent to the railroad tracks and has a soccer field, a jungle gym, slides and swings. Pepper Road Park occupies 5 acres along the Ecorse River and contains a variety of athletic fields and courts, a playground and a gazebo. It’s Ecorse’s most popular green space, and a proposed splash pad would be finished by 2027. Locals can experience the Detroit Riverfront at Dingell Park. The only regional park in the city, it's a quarter-mile-long and has wooden benches facing the water. Children enjoy two play areas and a playscape, and people of all ages are seen fishing from the brick-paved boardwalk. A monument to WWII, Korea and Vietnam veterans also rests in the tranquil area.
Dingell Park in Ecorse offers a variety of playground equipment with waterfront views.
Pepper Park in the Ecorse neighborhood features a baseball field.
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Community classes and Meals on Wheels
The city operates two community centers on Jefferson Avenue. Right next door to each other, the Senior Center and Recreation Center can be joined into one large hall for special events. Otherwise, the Senior Center is a services and social activities hub for Ecorse’s seniors. It provides Meals on Wheels to homebound people and operates a bus service to help them reach medical appointments and do shopping. Renovated in 2022, it has craft classes, bingo, bridge club and more. The Recreation Center is an open classroom space with cushioned plastic mat flooring for yoga and Cardio Drum Fit programs.
An overview of The Detroit River in relation to the neighborhood of Ecorse.
Important to Know
Being located along two riverfronts means Ecorse can experience some flooding. This is most prevalent in the residential area north of the Ecorse River.
Written By
Tina Davis
Photography Contributed By
Gregory Hayes
Video By
Stewart Taveras
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
Michelle Stalmack,
an experienced agent in this area.
GreatSchools:
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On average, homes in Ecorse, MI sell after 52 days on the market compared to the national average of 56 days. The median sale price for homes in Ecorse, MI over the last 12 months is $85,000, down 6% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
This beautiful 3-bedroom, 1.5-bathroom home offers spacious living across two levels with a convenient half bath on the basement and a full bath upstairs. You’ll love the living room, kitchen and formal dining area.The property sits on an oversized lot with a covered car port on the side and an automatic fence door, providing plenty of room for outdoor gatherings, parking, or future expansion.
THIS IS A FANNIE MAE HOMEPATH PROPERTY. SIMPLY GORGEOUS UPDATED 3 BEDROOM BUNGALOW WITH GARAGE AND BASEMENT. HOME HAS BEEN EXTENSIVELY RENOVATED FEATURING: GOURMET KITCHEN, GRANITE COUNTER TOPS, STAINLESS MICROWAVE, OVEN AND DISHWASHER. REMODELED BATH, NEWER WINDOWS , ROOF, AND VINYL WINDOWS, FRESHLY PAINTEDWITH NEW LVP AND CARPET FLOORING. HOME SHOWS GREAT AND HAS IMMEDIATE OCCUPANCY.
Back on the market! This time, it's ready Go and Show! Calling all investors and 1st time home buyers! This home has been remodeled with new EVERYTHING! Exterior and interior. New roof, siding, windows and flooring throughout. New kitchen and bath remodeled 3/2026. Perfectly located in the center of everything. Seller is acquiring the CO from the city. BATVAI Schedule your appointment today!
Nestle up in a new home this season! This updated two bedrooom is the perfect starter home or investment property. Enjoy an open kitchen and living room concept, with a separate dining area. The bedrooms have a touch of cozy and good closet space. A full, clean basement with a full bathroom makes this home a true gem. Schedule your appointment today. Please email all offers to
Ready to build! This fantastic lot is an ideal spot for your new home or next project. Close to schools and other community amenities! The property is sold As-Is, Where-Is. Seller has no knowledge, buyer should perform their due diligence and make their own assessments. Sold via QCD. Warranty deed is an option if buyer picks up all closing costs.
Unique opportunity to own a former fire station with incredible potential! This solid structure offers expansive open space, high ceilings, and a flexible layout ideal for a variety of uses including redevelopment, storage, workshop, or conversion to residential or mixed-use (subject to municipal approval). Property is in need of renovation and is being sold as-is.Situated on W Outer Dr with
Welcome to this 2100 sq. ft. two family home offering classic charm and endless potential. This spacious home features a generous layout with 3 bedrooms, 1 bath, large living and dining area with original character throughout on the main floor. The second floor offers 2 bedrooms, 1 bath, spacious living/home office space, or future expansion to convert to a single family home. While the home does
Fantastic opportunity to build or invest in the growing Ecorse community! This 30' x 100' residential lot is ideal for new construction, modular development, or land holding. Walkable neighborhood near schools, parks, and major freeways. Buyer and buyer’s agent to verify all information, including but not limited to property details, measurements, and permitted zoning uses. Property sold as-is.
Step into this clean and comfortable 3-bedroom, 1-bath home on 17th Street and make it your own. The home offers a bright living area, an efficient layout, and freshly cleaned spaces that are truly move-in ready. Enjoy nice-sized bedrooms, a practical kitchen, and a low-maintenance yard that’s easy to care for. Conveniently located near schools, parks, and major roads for an easy commute. Come
3 bedroom, 1 1/2 bath brick/alum sided colonial. Wood floors, Fireplace in large family room. Fixer upper with great potential. Sold "as is." All data & measurements are estimates. Buyer/buyer's agent to verify all data & measurements.
ATTENTION INVESTORS! VACANT LAND FOR DEVELOPMENT. SELLER HAS 5 LOTS AVAILABLE. BRING OFFERS!The property is sold As-Is, Where-Is. Seller has no knowledge, buyer should perform their due diligence and make their own assessments.SEE ALSOMLS LISTINGS: 20251019551 4007 13TH STREET, ECORSE 20251019551 3895 13TH STREET, ECORSE
Charming & Spacious 3-Bedroom Rental in Ecorse! This 2-story Colonial home features 924 sq. ft. of comfortable living space, including a spacious living room, a large kitchen, and three well-sized bedrooms. Located in a quiet neighborhood with easy access to public transit, schools, and major highways, this home offers both convenience and comfort. Tenant is responsible for utilities. Don’t miss
1/2 OFF 2ND MONTHS RENT with a 12 month lease! We want to help you in the beginning of the year by offering you this special. Newly renovated apartment with private entrance, has parking directly in front of your unit and is located a block away from Ecorse River. Apartment is sitting on lots of land for summer family events. This place is ready for you to call home.
Price Cut - $1,200+Free Month of Rent. Terms and Conditions apply. Make yourself at home at 3970 11th St--your perfect new space awaits. Experience the perfect balance of style and ease in this lovely brick ranch. Featuring two bedrooms and 1.5 baths, it's a home designed for effortless daily living. Relax on your charming front porch then head inside to discover a bright, airy living space
Property Id: 1487625Fenced-in backyard is pet-friendly. 2 bedrooms, living room & dining room w/ hardwood floors, kitchen and full bathroom. Includes appliances & washer/dryer! Central heating for winter and air conditioning for summer. Great location minutes away from I-75, Southfield Rd, Located minutes away from Lincoln Park shopping center with many options for shopping, restaurants &
**SECTION 8 ACCEPTED 650+ credit score NO EXCEPTIONS.** Charming 2 bedroom, 1 bathroom home with a fresh, modern interior and additional living space in the basement. This home features updated flooring, a beautifully renovated kitchen with new cabinetry and a stylish backsplash, and a bright, open living area. The updated bathroom offers a clean, contemporary look, while the neutral finishes
Welcome to this well-maintained 3-bedroom, 1-bath ranch located in the heart of Ecorse. This home offers comfortable living with a practical floor plan and a welcoming atmosphere. The spacious living room provides plenty of natural light, while the kitchen comes fully equipped with all major appliances, making move-in easy and convenient. Each bedroom offers ample closet space, and the large yard
Welcome to this fully renovated and move-in-ready rental offering modern finishes and functional living space. This property features a clean, contemporary design with thoughtful updates throughout, making it ideal for tenants seeking comfort, style, and efficiency. The interior showcases updated flooring, fresh neutral paint, and recessed lighting that creates a bright and inviting atmosphere.
Experience modern living in this beautifully renovated 3-bedroom, 2-bath condo, updated in 2023. Featuring a stylish open-concept design and brand-new appliances, this home seamlessly blends comfort and sophistication. The fresh, contemporary feel creates a warm and inviting atmosphere. Situated in a prime location, this move-in-ready gem offers both convenience and elegance, perfect for those
Property Id: 1327971Welcome to your cozy 3-bedroom, 1-bath single-family home offering 894 sqft of comfortable living space. Located at 3575 S Ethel St in Detroit, this move-in ready home features a functional layout, spacious interiors, and great natural light—perfect for families or individuals seeking both comfort and convenience. Section 8 vouchers are welcome.Situated in the
Three bedroom, one bath this home has beautiful wood floors throughout with a big back yard for plenty of room to entertain. The house includes an unfinished basement and comes equipped with a stove, refrigerator, washer, dryer, and central air. This immaculate home is move in ready and available for immediate occupancy.
Step into the legacy of one of Detroit’s most beloved institutions. The former Mr. Fofo’s Delicatessen—a neighborhood staple known for its old-school charm and loyal following for decades—now presents a rare opportunity for a new operator to bring fresh energy to the New Center / Henry Ford Hospital district, one of the city’s most rapidly evolving corridors.This 4,308 sq. ft. commercial
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