Dearborn is a city located in the southeastern part of the U.S. state of Michigan, just west of Detroit. As of the 2020 census, Dearborn had a population of 108,412 residents, making it Michigan’s eighth largest city. The city’s population peaked in 1970 at 112,007 before experiencing a decline over subsequent decades. However, its population has ticked upward again in recent years.
Population and Demographics
Dearborn has a diverse population, with sizable Arab and Muslim communities. According to 2019 estimates, around 47% of residents are non-Hispanic white, 40% are Arab, 7% are black, 3% are Hispanic or Latino, and 3% identify as other or mixed race.
The median age in Dearborn is 32.9 years. About 22% of the population is under age 18, while 13% are age 65 or older. There are slightly more female residents (51%) than male residents (49%).
Dearborn has a high concentration of people of Lebanese ancestry, with over 30,000 Lebanese-Americans living in the city. This is one of the largest Lebanese populations outside of Lebanon. Many immigrated here in the late 19th and early 20th centuries to work in the auto industry.
Today, Dearborn contains the largest Muslim population in the United States. The Muslim community in Dearborn is primarily Shi’a and live in east Dearborn. There are over 60 mosques, Islamic schools, and many other Muslim organizations and businesses.
History
The area that is now Dearborn was inhabited for thousands of years by Native American tribes before European settlement. French colonists were the first Europeans to arrive here in the late 17th century. The city itself was incorporated in 1893 and developed rapidly in the 20th century.
Dearborn’s growth was fueled by the establishment of the Ford Motor Company in the city and the associated automobile industry boom. It became home to the world headquarters of the Ford Motor Company, which greatly expanded the local economy and workforce.
Today, Dearborn retains its connections to automotive manufacturing but has diversified its economic base. It is home to many corporate headquarters, research and development facilities, and high-tech industries.
Economy and Major Employers
Although no longer providing the overwhelming majority of local jobs, the auto industry is still a major part of Dearborn’s economy. The city has several significant employers in the automotive and manufacturing sectors:
- Ford Motor Company – Auto manufacturer
- AK Steel – Steel producer
- Automation Solutions – Automation systems
- MANN+HUMMEL USA – Auto parts supplier
- Severstal – Steel factory
However, the city has significantly diversified its major industries over the past few decades. Other top employers today include:
- Henry Ford Health System – Hospital network
- Henry Ford College – Community college
- Comerica – Financial services
- Guidehouse – Consulting firm
- University of Michigan-Dearborn – Public university campus
- Defense Nuclear Facilities Safety Board – Federal agency regional office
- Access – Tech and IT services
Other major industries today include education, finance, technology, healthcare, and retail. So while the auto industry is still a presence, Dearborn has a more diverse economic picture overall.
Attractions and Landmarks
Some of the most popular attractions and landmarks in Dearborn include:
- The Henry Ford Museum – History museum with exhibits focusing on American innovation and culture.
- Arab American National Museum – Museum that celebrates Arab American heritage and contributions.
- Museum of Contemporary Art Detroit – Contemporary art museum located in the historic Dearborn Armory building.
- Greenfield Village – Outdoor history museum adjacent to the Henry Ford Museum featuring historic homes and buildings.
- University of Michigan-Dearborn – Campus with modern architecture and a large wooded area.
- Dearborn Recreation and Parks – Operates over 60 parks, pools, golf courses and other recreation facilities.
The presence of the Ford Motor Company led to the establishment of many significant automotive attractions as well, such as the Ford Rouge Factory Tour and the Automotive Hall of Fame.
Sports
Dearborn doesn’t have any major professional sports teams, but sports still play an important role in the city’s culture. Some of the local teams include:
- Henry Ford College Athletics – Competes in the NJCAA with 15 varsity sports teams.
- UM-Dearborn Wolverines – NCAA Division III teams.
- Dearborn Allied War Veterans – Amateur baseball team part of the Connie Mack League.
- Dearborn Divine Child High School – Competes in the Michigan High School Athletics Association.
Dearborn also has a rich youth sports scene with baseball, soccer, football, and other leagues. And many residents root for Detroit’s professional teams like the Lions, Tigers, Red Wings, and Pistons.
You can follow the latest news and events happening in Dearborn by liking the city’s Facebook page. The page has over 18,000 followers and shares photos, event announcements, city notices, and more.