Detroit and Flint Rank Among Dirtiest Cities in 2025

When it comes to dirtiest cities, Michigan doesn’t exactly love seeing its name on that list, especially when you know the real story behind the numbers. But a new national report from LawnStarter ranks Detroit and Flint among the country’s less-than-pristine places for 2025, and while that might sound harsh, there’s important context here.

A Ranking That Misses the Full Picture

The study looked at 20 different factors, everything from air quality and pollution to infrastructure, waste management, and how residents feel about their local environment.

Detroit: Cleaning Up and Leading by Example

Detroit landed at No. 3, with high smoking rates and older housing stock factoring into its score. But before you roll your eyes at another 'Detroit doom headline', remember this: Motor City residents have been rolling up their sleeves to change that picture.

Community cleanups through programs like Motor City Makeover 365 and The Cleanup Club happen year-round, proving that Detroiters don’t just talk about change, they make it happen.

Flint: Rebuilding, Reinvesting, and Refusing to Quit

Flint, meanwhile, came in at No. 12, and honestly, that’s a complicated ranking for a city that’s been through so much and is still standing strong. From neighborhood beautification efforts to community gardens and renewed downtown energy, Flint’s story is one of resilience, not neglect.

At a Glance: Michigan Cities in the 2025 “Dirtiest Cities” Report

️ Detroit (#3 Overall)

Median Air Quality Index: 53
RSEI Industrial Score: 0.39
Percentage of Smokers: 23.8%
Residents Dissatisfied with Pollution: 54%
Community Action: Motor City Makeover 365, The Cleanup Club, and ongoing neighborhood beautification efforts

Flint (#12 Overall)

Residents reporting concern over infrastructure and pollution
Continued progress following the water crisis with environmental reinvestment
Local Initiatives: Community gardens, Flint River restoration, neighborhood cleanups, and downtown revitalization projects

Michigan Pride Still Shines Bright

So yeah, the air and infrastructure might still need some love. But the people of these Michigan cities continue to do what they’ve always done best: rebuild, reimagine, and refuse to give up.

Because if there’s one thing Detroit and Flint know better than anyone, it’s how to fight back and come out cleaner, stronger, and prouder than before.