Detroit

Detroit is on a rise back from the dead. Previously having a bad reputation for being violent and run down, things are getting better. Investors are rebuilding the city and the atmosphere has changed quite a bit over the last 2 years. There are new building projects and renovations occurring as the city continues its artistic rebirth.
Leading the charge for change are artists who create murals on the side of buildings. Artists come in from other parts of the country, sometimes even other countries, to participate in this. If you have not seen or heard of these, please check them out with a simple google search. Some are quite amazing.
I would not recommend living inside city limits but the Detroit Metropolitan area is large and many neighborhoods are safe. I was very surprised when I moved up here as I did not experience the climate that we have all been told to expect. Despite everytjing we have been told, its not a bad place.
Some areas seem to be overrun with hipsteres, and they dont gather where there is percieved danger, so that should be a sign in in itself. Many small businesses have popped up over the last several years and there is immense prode in the city by its residents. If you are the traveling type, give Detroit a try and set asside your preconceived notions, but dont let your guard down too much as that is terrible advice anywhere.