State of Vacancy in Michigan (2014)

Author(s): Center for Community Progress

Michigan, already dealing with significant decline in its industrial base, was one of the first states to feel the impacts of the national economic downturn and 2008 foreclosure crisis. Even in recovery, many Michigan towns, cities and counties continue to face the lasting effects of a weakened housing market, including exacerbated vacancy rates and increased blight.

This report illustrates general trends in residential vacancy and distressed property between 2000 and 2013 across Michigan counties and select Michigan cities. The Center for Community Progress collected and analyzed housing data from the U.S. Decennial Census (2000 and 2010), the Michigan Department of Treasury, and U.S. Postal Service vacancy data to assess the current state of vacancy, and the changes seen over the last decade. The report highlights significant findings from this research.