Living in Milford: A Hidden Gem in Southeast Michigan
I’ve gotten countless calls, texts, and emails from people thinking about relocating to Michigan — and Milford often flies under the radar. I grew up here, so I wanted to share an honest, first-hand look at what life’s really like in this community that blends old-fashioned friendliness with modern comfort.
The Pros of Living in Milford, Michigan
1. Incredible Livability and Small-Town Feel
Milford’s biggest draw is its livability. It’s the kind of place where people actually know their neighbors, kids ride bikes through town, and you can walk to your favorite bakery or coffee shop without dodging city chaos.
Spend a day strolling downtown Milford, and you’ll quickly understand why it’s rated above average by sites like Niche.com and AreaVibes. The streets are lined with local restaurants, boutiques, and historic architecture, all within walking distance of scenic trails and parks.
I grew up spending weekends biking and fishing through Kensington Metropark, catching car shows at Baker’s of Milford, then grabbing Dairy Queen or Holden’s fried chicken across the street. Those experiences made Milford feel like home — and they still hold up today.
2. Downtown Milford and “Milford Memories”
Downtown Milford is the heartbeat of the community. You’ll find locally owned favorites like The Milford Bakery, Smoke Street BBQ, and quaint coffee shops that keep the town buzzing.
And of course, there’s Milford Memories, the legendary three-day festival in August that draws thousands each year. It’s part art fair, part street party, part food coma — complete with live music, beer tents, and family-friendly entertainment that runs late into the night. If you want to experience the true Milford atmosphere, this event is the perfect introduction.
3. Excellent Schools and Family-Friendly Living
Milford is part of the Huron Valley School District, which consistently ranks well above state averages. Milford High School stands out for both academics and athletics — the same school my parents and several relatives attended.
Families move here for the safe neighborhoods, low crime rate, and tight-knit community feel. According to NeighborhoodScout, Milford’s crime rate is significantly lower than the Michigan average, and its poverty rate is well below the national level.
4. Natural Beauty and Outdoor Access
If you love the outdoors, Milford is a dream. You’re minutes from Kensington Metropark, Proud Lake State Recreation Area, and the Huron River, offering miles of trails, kayaking, cross-country skiing, and picnic areas. It’s one of the few places in Metro Detroit where you can live near both nature and convenience.
5. Economic Stability and Local Character
The GM Proving Grounds are located nearby, creating solid employment opportunities and contributing to the local economy. Milford’s mix of historic homes, updated downtown spaces, and strong real estate demand has made it one of the most stable markets in Oakland County.
Most residents own their homes and stay long-term, which keeps inventory tight and home values strong. The median home price sits around $425,000–$450,000, depending on proximity to downtown or the lakes, according to recent MLS data.
The Cons of Living in Milford, Michigan
1. Traffic and Population Growth
For a small town of around 6,500 residents, Milford can feel surprisingly busy — especially during peak hours and events. Its central location draws visitors from Brighton, Commerce Township, Highland, and White Lake, creating congestion on Milford Road and Main Street during dinner and commute hours.
Still, compared to Metro Detroit’s big-city traffic, Milford’s “rush hour” is more of a slow roll than a nightmare.
2. Local Business Dominance
Depending on your perspective, this one’s either a pro or a con. Milford’s local businesses have deep roots, and while that gives the town character, it can also make it difficult for new entrepreneurs to gain traction.
The community loves its traditions — which is part of the charm — but that tight-knit network can sometimes favor established names over newcomers.
3. Limited Job Market Within Town
Job opportunities in Milford are somewhat limited, especially for full-time or specialized positions. Many residents commute to Novi, Brighton, or Ann Arbor, all within 30–40 minutes. For students or part-time workers, competition is high since local spots are quickly filled by college and high school students.
4. Housing Affordability and Inventory
Because so many residents love living here, homes rarely hit the market — and when they do, they sell fast. Most properties are older homes with modern renovations, giving the town a rustic, restored feel but a higher average price per square foot. Affordable “fixer-uppers” are few and far between.
5. Expressway Access
Depending on where you live, commuting can be tricky. While those near Milford Road enjoy quick access to I-96, others have to cut through town to reach major highways — something to keep in mind if your job requires frequent travel.
That said, the drive is scenic, especially in the fall when the trees explode with color — so it’s not the worst “con” in the world.
6. School Infrastructure
Although Milford schools provide strong education, some residents have expressed frustration over aging facilities and limited funding for improvements. The quality of teaching is high, but the physical schools could benefit from modernization.
The Truth About Allen Township, Michigan: Neighborhoods, Prices, …
Allen Township, Michigan offers a rural Hillsdale…
Is Adams Township (Hillsdale County), Michigan a Good …
Adams Township, Michigan is a rural Hillsdale…
Moving to Reading, Michigan? What to Know About …
Reading, Michigan is a small Hillsdale County…
Check out this article next
Leave a Reply
You must be logged in to post a comment.