This Florida couple moved to Detroit because of affordability, 'welcoming' culture

Steven and Christa Marsicano moved from Tampa to Detroit last November. Climate, affordability and politics all contributed to their decision to relocate in Michigan.

Steven and Christa Marsicano pose after a conversation in line at Dessert Oasis in Capitol Park downtown. Photo: Samuel Robinson

I met a couple in their mid-30s Tuesday who moved from Tampa, Florida last year to a duplex in Midtown, Detroit, where they say neighbors are honest and friendly.

“People are super nice and welcoming up here compared to Florida,” Steven Marsicano, a freelance photographer, told me.

The Marsicano’s are among new, mostly white residents from out-of-state buying property in Detroit after visiting and being attracted to its history and culture, despite a negative perception the couple said still exists.

“There’s definitely a still perception problem,” Steven said. “Everybody that we told we were moving here basically had the same reaction, like, ‘Really, Detroit? Like, Michigan?’ It still has the perception that it’s not what it is.”

“There were people who told me, ‘Don’t get shot,’” Christa, a software engineer, added. “But, there’s less crime where we live now.”