Westland is a city located in southeastern Michigan, about 16 miles west of downtown Detroit. With a population of over 80,000, it is the 10th largest city in Michigan. Keep reading to learn more about Westland’s demographics, economy, attractions, and more.
Population
According to the latest census data, Westland has a population of 82,089 people. This makes it the 10th largest city in the state of Michigan. The population density is approximately 3,500 people per square mile.
Westland saw its peak population in 1970, when over 100,000 people called the city home. Since then, the population has declined somewhat as families moved to suburban areas farther away from Detroit. However, in recent years Westland’s population has stabilized as new residents are attracted to affordable housing and convenient amenities.
The racial makeup of Westland is predominantly white, with about 70% of residents identifying as white alone. About 20% of the population is African American, 5% is Hispanic or Latino, and 5% identifies as Asian.
Over 25% of Westland’s population is under age 18, and another 10% is aged 65 or older. The median age is 38. The city has slightly more female residents than male.
Economy and Major Employers
Historically Westland was known for manufacturing, but today the city has a diverse economic base. Some of the top employers in Westland are:
- Ford Motor Company
- Livonia Public Schools
- TRW Automotive
- Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan
- Wayne-Westland Community Schools
- City of Westland
- Sam’s Club
- Kroger
- Target
- Walmart
Other major industries include healthcare, education, insurance, and retail. The largest employment sectors are education, healthcare, manufacturing, and retail trade.
For more details on Westland’s economy and business profile, visit the City of Westland economic development website.
Attractions and Things to Do
Some of the most popular attractions and activities in Westland include:
- Westland Bowl – a classic bowling alley with 48 lanes, an arcade, lounge, and diner.
- Westland Center – a shopping mall with over 90 stores including Macy’s, JCPenney, and Target.
- Wayne County Family Aquatic Center – an indoor water park open year-round.
- Westland Historic Village Park – a 12-acre park featuring historic buildings and artifacts from the 18th-20th centuries.
- Westland public golf courses – two 18-hole courses at JOANN Innsbrook Golf Course and Warren Valley Golf Course.
- Westland Tennis Center – fully lit outdoor tennis complex with 16 courts.
- Youth baseball/softball – Westland has over 20 ball fields across several parks.
- Farmers Market – open summers and features local produce, crafts, and food trucks.
- Concerts in the Park – free summer concert series with live music in Central City Park.
- Westland Center for the Arts – Community theater, art studios, gallery space, and classrooms.
The city organizes many community events year-round like a fall festival, winter holiday celebration, and summer carnival providing ongoing family entertainment.
Sports Teams
Westland is home to several youth sports leagues and one major professional sports team:
- Westland Youth Athletic Association provides sports for over 10,000 kids including baseball, football, cheerleading, soccer, and more.
- The Westland Figure Skating Club allows kids to compete and perform on ice.
- Adray Basketball Association runs winter leagues and camps.
- The Michigan Panthers professional football team plays at Ford Field in nearby Detroit, MI.
Westland also has over 20 public parks that have sports facilities for casual and organized play for all ages.
Living in Westland
Known as the “City of Progress,” Westland offers residents a vibrant, active community to call home. Neighborhood parks, diverse dining and shopping options, recreational facilities, and convenient proximity to Detroit make Westland an ideal suburb. The city has high-ranking public schools as well as houses of worship for many faiths.
New developments and city investment in Westland ensure it continues to grow and thrive into the future while maintaining its hometown pride and spirit.