The PROS and CONS of Living In Dexter Michigan - So you’re thinking about making the move to Dexter, Michigan. Well, stick around because I’m touching on some CRUCIAL pros and cons that will help you decide if this city in southeast Michigan is right for you.

Living in Dexter, Michigan: Pros, Cons, and What to Expect

As the title suggests, this is a deep dive into the pros and cons of living in Dexter, Michigan—the good, the not-so-good, and the “it depends on your lifestyle” factors that might influence whether you call this city home.

Pro #1 – Dexter’s Location Near Ann Arbor

One of the biggest reasons Dexter, Michigan lands on so many shortlists is simple:
Location.

Dexter is located in Washtenaw County, roughly 8 miles northwest of Ann Arbor, which makes it an ideal option for people who want:

• Easy access to downtown Ann Arbor, the University of Michigan, hospitals, and major employers
• Short commutes to I-94 and other regional roads
• A quieter, small-town feel while staying close to big-city amenities

A lot of people who reach out to me from out of state—or from other regions of Michigan—start by searching “living in Ann Arbor”, then realize they might not actually want to live in the middle of a busy college town. Dexter often becomes the perfect compromise:

• Close enough to enjoy Ann Arbor’s restaurants, culture, and energy
• Far enough away to escape the game-day traffic, constant student activity, and higher home prices

Nearby alternatives like Dexter, Ypsilanti, Saline, and Superior Township are all gaining popularity for this same reason: each has its own community identity while allowing residents to tap into everything Ann Arbor offers just a short drive away.

If Ann Arbor is also on your radar, you can check out my Pros & Cons of Ann Arbor video (link in the “Mentioned Links” section below) and compare the two.

Pro #2 – Dexter’s City Offerings, Parks, and Amenities

Dexter sometimes gets written off as “that little town next to Ann Arbor,” but that’s selling it short.

If you pull Dexter up on a map, you’ll see that it’s tucked along the Huron River and Mill Creek, which gives it a surprisingly robust list of things to do for a smaller city.

A few key highlights of living in Dexter, MI:

• 14 parks with walking, hiking, and biking opportunities
• Strong focus on environmental stewardship and green space, backed by a formal environmental awareness plan
• Easy access to canoeing, kayaking, and fishing on the river and creek
• A sidewalk network that connects you to:
  • Dexter Cider Mill
  • Dexter District Library
  • Local farmers market
  • Neighborhoods and downtown

Dexter also has several shopping and dining corridors, especially along historic Main Street and the Dexter–Ann Arbor corridor, where new developments have been steadily popping up over the past several years.

Some local favorites and staples along and around downtown include:

• Local pubs and eateries
• Specialty shops and small businesses
• Seasonal and family-friendly activities centered around the river and Main Street

It’s a compact city, but for many residents, that’s exactly the appeal: you don’t have to travel far to find what you need.

Pro #3 – Festivals, Culture, and Community Events

Like many Michigan communities, Dexter leans heavily into local events, arts, and traditions that help shape its identity.

Notable events and festivals include:

• Dexter Daze – A two-day August festival packed with food, art, music, and family-friendly activities
• Summer music concert series – Outdoor performances that bring residents together on warm evenings
• Paint Dexter Plein Air Festival – A week-long event (now going strong for years) featuring:
  • Outdoor painting
  • Art sales and competitions
  • Workshops and community art experiences

Beyond events, the city regularly communicates with residents through newsletters that cover:

• Tax structures and how local dollars are used
• Parks and recreation updates
• Long-term planning and infrastructure
• Local accomplishments and ongoing initiatives

All of this creates a strong sense that Dexter isn’t just a bedroom community for Ann Arbor—it’s its own active, engaged city.

Pro #4 – A Tight-Knit, Resilient Community

Dexter may be small, but many residents describe it as:

• Fun
• Inviting
• Increasingly sought-after

The walkable downtown, parks, and riverfront help reinforce that small-town feel that people are often searching for but struggle to find in larger metro areas.

One of the clearest examples of Dexter’s community strength came on March 15, 2012, when an EF3 tornado tore through the area:

• Over 100 homes were damaged or destroyed
• Trees and power lines were taken down
• Thankfully, there were no reported injuries

What stood out most wasn’t just the storm—it was how the community responded. Residents, local organizations, and surrounding areas came together and rebuilt. For many who lived through it, that period highlighted just how strong and supportive the community really is, and it’s a big reason longtime residents can’t picture themselves living anywhere else.

Con #1 – Small-Town Dynamics and “Fitting In”

The same small-town feel that draws people to Dexter can also be an adjustment for newcomers.

In many smaller Michigan communities—Dexter included—it can:

• Take some time to build relationships
• Feel like “everybody already knows everybody”
• Be a different pace and culture than large suburban or urban areas

This isn’t unique to Dexter; it’s a common theme across many tight-knit towns in the state.

My best advice if you’re considering moving to Dexter, MI (or any Michigan small town):

• Invest in a visit before you buy. Spend at least a full day or weekend here.
• Walk through downtown, stop into a restaurant or coffee shop, attend an event if you can.
• Pay attention to:
  • How people interact
  • How you feel in the space
  • Whether the rhythm of the town matches your lifestyle

I can share my experience and perspective all day long, but ultimately, your lifestyle, priorities, and expectations are unique. A quick “sight unseen” purchase might be convenient, but when we’re talking about one of the biggest financial decisions of your life, it’s worth taking the extra step to experience the area firsthand.

Con #2 – Limited Nightlife in Dexter

Let’s talk about nightlife, because that’s where Dexter tends to get mixed reviews.

Residents often mention that:

• Restaurants, bars, and breweries close relatively early
• The downtown nightlife is low-key rather than late-night
• If you’re looking for a more energetic, late-night scene, you’ll usually end up in Ann Arbor

This isn’t necessarily a dealbreaker—it depends what you want:

• If your ideal evening is dinner, a drink, and a walk by the river, Dexter works great.
• If you’re envisioning live music past midnight, club-style energy, or late-night crowds, you’ll likely be heading into Ann Arbor or another larger city nearby.

Realistically, Dexter could boost its nightlife appeal by:

• Extending some business hours later into the evening
• Incorporating more evening lighting, programming, and events that encourage people to stay out longer

But even as-is, many residents love that they can live in a quieter place and still get higher-energy nightlife just a short drive or rideshare away.

Con #3 – Cost of Living and Housing Affordability

Now for the big one: cost of living in Dexter, Michigan.

On the surface, you might expect a small town like Dexter to be inexpensive. In reality, Dexter’s overall cost of living sits above the Michigan average, largely because of housing.

A few key points:

• Dexter’s total cost of living index has been estimated above the state average.
• Housing is the largest driver, with real estate values elevated due to:
  • Proximity to Ann Arbor
  • Strong demand from both local and out-of-area buyers
  • Limited inventory in and around the city

When you compare Dexter vs Ann Arbor:

• Ann Arbor typically comes in more expensive overall, especially in certain neighborhoods and for student housing.
• Dexter often appears more “affordable” relative to Ann Arbor, but it is still not a budget market by Michigan standards.

Recent MLS data has shown:

• Dexter’s average sale prices steadily increasing year over year
• Ann Arbor and Ann Arbor Township at significantly higher price points, with sharp appreciation over the past few years

Because of this:

• Buyers who want access to Ann Arbor’s jobs, hospitals, and amenities—but don’t want Ann Arbor’s price tag—often look to Dexter.
• The gap between Ann Arbor and nearby communities has widened enough that commuting from Dexter can save a meaningful amount on mortgage or rent, even with today’s higher home prices.

If you’re considering Dexter, it’s important to:

• Look closely at current sale prices, taxes, and insurance
• Set realistic expectations about what your budget will get you
• Understand that you’re paying for location + small-town feel + proximity to a major city

Is Dexter, Michigan Right for You?

So… should you move to Dexter, MI?

It depends on what you’re looking for.

Dexter might be a great fit if you:

• Want to live near Ann Arbor but not in the middle of it
• Value trails, parks, rivers, and outdoor recreation
• Appreciate a tight-knit community with local festivals and events
• Prefer a walkable small downtown over a busy, urban core

You may want to explore other areas if you:

• Need a very active nightlife scene right outside your door
• Are working with a tight housing budget and need the lowest prices possible
• Prefer a more urban, high-density environment

From an economic standpoint, Dexter’s trajectory has been strong. The community has shown resilience, growth, and consistent demand—especially from people who want that “near Ann Arbor, but not in Ann Arbor” lifestyle.

If you’re considering Dexter and want to talk through neighborhoods, housing options, or cost of living based on your specific situation, feel free to reach out. I’m always happy to be a resource.

FAQ About Living in Dexter, Michigan

Is Dexter, Michigan a good place to live near Ann Arbor?

Yes. Dexter is one of the most popular options for people who want to be close to Ann Arbor (for work, school, or healthcare) while enjoying a quieter, small-town environment. Many residents commute into Ann Arbor daily.

How far is Dexter from Ann Arbor?

Dexter is roughly 8 miles from Ann Arbor, depending on your exact starting and ending points. In normal traffic, that often translates to a 10–20 minute drive.

Does Dexter have a downtown area?

Yes. Dexter has a small but charming downtown near the Huron River and Mill Creek with local shops, restaurants, and cafes. It’s not large or nightlife-heavy, but it is walkable and cozy.

What is there to do in Dexter besides go into Ann Arbor?

Within Dexter itself you’ll find:

• Parks and nature trails
• River and creek access for kayaking, canoeing, and fishing
• Seasonal festivals like Dexter Daze
• Farmers markets, music events, and local cultural activities

Many residents mix Dexter’s offerings with frequent trips into Ann Arbor.

Is Dexter, Michigan expensive?

Compared to the Michigan average, Dexter’s cost of living and home prices are higher, largely due to its proximity to Ann Arbor and ongoing demand. Compared to Ann Arbor itself, Dexter can often be a more affordable alternative.

What are the schools like in and around Dexter?

Dexter is served by Dexter Community Schools, and the broader area also benefits from being in the greater Ann Arbor/Washtenaw County educational region. Many families look at both school quality and commute when choosing between Dexter and neighboring communities.

Does Dexter get severe weather?

Dexter generally has typical southeast Michigan weather: four full seasons, snowy winters, and warm summers. The 2012 tornado was a rare, extreme event—but it did highlight the community’s ability to rally and rebuild together.

Is Dexter walkable?

The downtown core and nearby neighborhoods are relatively walkable, with sidewalks connecting to parks, the library, the farmers market, cider mill, and other local spots. For bigger shopping trips, you’ll likely drive to nearby corridors or neighboring cities.

MENTIONED LINKS 🔗

Pros & Cons Ann Arbor, Michigan: https://youtu.be/Q3hCE3DXAlc

Dexter Michigan Newsletter: https://bit.ly/3ebTZAl

Cheers,

Andrew