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Sterling Heights, MI

Frequently asked questions

Sterling Heights, MI

Sterling Heights is a city in Macomb County in the U.S. state of Michigan. A northern suburb of Detroit, Sterling Heights is located roughly 18 miles (29.0 km) north of downtown Detroit. As of the 2020 census, the city had a population of 134,346, placing Sterling Heights as the second-largest suburb of Detroit, and the fourth-most populous city in Michigan.

As a result of the War of 1812 and the 1817 Treaty of Fort Meigs, the area of the Michigan Territory which now makes up Sterling Heights was first surveyed by Deputy Surveyor Joseph Wampler; his survey was approved on February 20, 1818. Wampler had been one of two deputy surveyors of Perrysburg, Ohio, in 1816.

Created as part of Shelby Township in April 1827, it was broken off as Jefferson Township in March 1835. In March 1838, it was renamed Sterling Township.

Until the 1950s, Sterling Township was an agricultural area, largely devoted to growing rhubarb and other crops sold in Detroit. Road improvements led to decreased commute times and lower costs for the delivery of goods and services to and from businesses. The population increased when suburban homes were built for the workers in metropolitan Detroit's booming automobile industry. When Sterling Township was incorporated as a city in 1968, "Heights" was added to the name to satisfy a state law that prevented incorporated municipalities from having the same name, as there was already a small village named Sterling in Arenac County.

Sterling Heights is a second-ring suburb, 14 to 20 miles (23 to 32 km) north of downtown Detroit. The city's southern border is 6 miles (10 km) from Detroit's northern border. The shape of the city is six miles long and miles wide. It is bordered to the south by the city of Warren, at its southwest corner by Madison Heights, to the west by Troy, to the north by Utica and Shelby Township, at its northeast corner by Macomb Township, to the east by Clinton Township, and to the southeast by Fraser.

According to the U.S. Census Bureau, Sterling Heights has a total area of 36.72 square miles (95.10 km2), of which 36.45 square miles (94.41 km2) are land and 0.27 square miles (0.70 km2), or 0.74%, is water. The Clinton River crosses the northeast part of the city, flowing east to Lake St. Clair east of Mount Clemens.

Sterling Heights places a strong emphasis on health and wellness for its residents. The Sterling Heights Community Center features a modern gym equipped with cardio machines, weightlifting equipment, and fitness classes led by certified instructors, catering to individuals of all fitness levels. Additionally, Sterling Heights Parks and Recreation Department organizes various outdoor activities such as hiking trails, sports leagues, and community fitness events, encouraging residents to stay active and enjoy the natural surroundings. Transcendence Family Wellness Center provides holistic health services including acupuncture, chiropractic care, and nutritional counseling to promote overall well-being. For those seeking relaxation and rejuvenation, Tranquil Spa & Wellness offers a range of spa treatments such as massages, facials, and body scrubs in a serene environment. Updog Yoga hosts daily yoga classes, meditation sessions, and wellness workshops focused on mindfulness and stress management techniques. Sterling Heights Senior Center offers fitness programs, social activities, and educational seminars tailored to the needs of older adults, promoting healthy aging and community engagement. Henry Ford Medical Center - Sterling Heights offers comprehensive health services, including wellness check-ups and preventive care programs. 

Top Sites in Sterling Heights, MI are Full Throttle Adrenaline Park, Dodge Park, and Sterling Heights Nature Center.

Population: 134,342 (2024). ZIP codes: 48310, 48311, 48312, 48313, 48314. Area codes: 586. Elevation: 614 ft (187 m). Area: 36.72 sq mi (95.10 km²).

FAQs

Is Sterling Heights, MI expensive?

Sterling Heights, Michigan's cost of living is 4% lower than the national average. The cost of living in any area can vary based on factors such as your career, average salary, and the real estate market of that area. Sterling Heights's housing expenses are 26% lower than the national average and the utility prices are 6% lower than the national average. Transportation expenses like bus fares and gas prices are about the same as the national average. Sterling Heights has grocery prices that are 1% higher than the national average.

What is Sterling Heights, MI is known for?

Sterling Heights, Michigan, is a vibrant and diverse city where community spirit and modern amenities blend seamlessly. Sterling Heights offers a perfect balance of urban excitement and natural beauty, from its bustling shopping centers to serene parks and recreational facilities. Immerse yourself in the local culture by exploring the city’s art and music scene, or indulge in the diverse culinary offerings. 

What is the crime rate in Sterling Heights, MI?

The crime rate in Sterling Heights is considerably higher than the national average across all communities in America from the largest to the smallest, although at 14 crimes per one thousand residents, it is not among the communities with the very highest crime rate. The chance of becoming a victim of either violent or property crime in Sterling Heights is 1 in 72. Based on FBI crime data, Sterling Heights is not one of the safest communities in America. Relative to Michigan, Sterling Heights has a crime rate that is higher than 71% of the state's cities and towns of all sizes.

Sources

Wikipedia

City of Sterling Heights

Payscale

Redfin

Neighborhood Scout

Full Throttle Adrenaline Park

Dodge Park

Sterling Heights Nature Center

Sterling Heights Community Center

Sterling Heights Parks and Recreation

Transcendence Family Wellness Center

Tranquil Spa & Wellness

Updog Yoga

Sterling Heights Senior Center

Henry Ford Medical Center - Sterling Heights

The content herein is provided for general informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Medical information changes constantly, and therefore the content on this website should not be assumed to be current, complete, or exhaustive. Always seek the advice of your doctor before starting or changing treatment. If you think you may have a medical emergency, please call your doctor or 9-1-1 (in the United States) immediately.