The ACTUAL Cost of Living In Brighton Michigan

By Andrew McManamonCost of Living In Michigan October 15, 2025

So you’re thinking about moving to Brighton, Michigan, or maybe you’re just curious what life in this charming Livingston County city will actually cost you. Whether you’re relocating from Ann Arbor, Northville, or halfway across the country, it’s one thing to love Brighton’s lakes, downtown shops, and small-town vibe—but another thing entirely to know if it fits your budget.

Let’s break down the real cost of living in Brighton, Michigan—from housing and transportation to groceries, gas, and the everyday stuff that keeps life running smoothly.

Brighton, Michigan: The “Good Brand” of Living

If you’ve ever walked into a store planning to grab the cheapest item on the shelf but ended up convincing yourself to buy the higher-quality version instead—congratulations, you’ve just explained Brighton, Michigan.

This city is the “good brand” in Metro Detroit living. It’s not the cheapest, but what you get in return—clean, walkable streets, top-rated schools, a thriving downtown, and lakes galore—makes it worth every penny.

I’m Andrew McManamon with Living in Michigan, and after years of helping people move to and around this great state, I can say this: Brighton is one of those places that earns its price tag.

Housing Market in Brighton, Michigan

Let’s start with the biggest line item in anyone’s budget: housing.

According to data from BestPlaces.net and the MLS, Brighton’s overall cost of living index is 111.8, meaning it’s about 11% higher than the U.S. average. The biggest contributor? Housing.

Median household income: $63,000+
Average rent: Around $1,200/month
Median home sale price: Roughly $311,000 (a 21.5% jump from last year)

To put that in perspective, the average Brighton home in 2019 was nearly $100,000 cheaper. That’s a huge leap in just a few years—and it speaks volumes about demand.

Days on Market (DOM): What It Really Means

Brighton’s homes tend to sit on the market a bit longer lately, even as nearby areas sell fast. Why? Two words: seller greed.

When homeowners know they’re sitting on a desirable property in a highly rated school district, they often price it at the top of the market—sometimes too high. Buyers hesitate, homes linger, and days on market rise. Still, when those homes do sell, they often go for more than asking price (Brighton averages 102% of list price, up 3.2% year-over-year).

It’s the classic Michigan story: buyers get frustrated, circle back, and end up paying what they once thought was “too much.”

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Transportation Costs

Living in Brighton means you’ll probably be driving—this isn’t exactly a “walk to work” kind of town. The area is beautifully connected by I-96, US-23, and Grand River Avenue, putting Ann Arbor, Novi, and Lansing all within 30–40 minutes.

But here’s the trade-off: Michigan’s car insurance rates are among the highest in the nation. Add in rising gas prices, and transportation costs can sting a bit.

At the time of this writing, average gas prices in Michigan hover around:

Regular: $4.10/gallon
Mid-grade: $4.58/gallon
Premium: $4.87/gallon
Diesel: $4.91/gallon

For context, Michigan’s record high was $4.26 in May 2011—so we’re definitely in “ouch” territory again.

Everyday Expenses: Groceries, Gas, and More

To get a real sense of day-to-day costs, let’s go shopping in Brighton. We checked prices at Kroger, Meijer, and Busch’s—three grocery stores locals frequent.

Item	Average Price
Bread	$0.99–$2.50
Frozen Pizza (DiGiorno)	$6.49–$6.99
6-Pack of Beer (Bud Light)	$6.49–$6.99
12-Pack of Soda	$5.99 + deposit
Milk (1 gallon)	$2.69
Cereal	$2.49–$5.49

Overall, groceries in Brighton are in line with Michigan averages—slightly higher than rural areas, but far lower than major metros like Chicago or Boston.

Brighton vs. Major U.S. Cities: The Cost Comparison

Here’s where Brighton shines. According to Salary.com, moving from these cities to Brighton could save you:

San Francisco: 79.9% less
Washington, D.C.: 49.9% less
Boston: 44.8% less
New York City: 74.2% less
Chicago: 8.8% less
Miami: 5.4% less

So while Brighton feels “pricey” by Michigan standards, it’s practically a bargain for anyone relocating from the coasts or big metros.

Why the Cost Feels Worth It

Yes, Brighton costs a little more—but the quality of life justifies it. Here’s what your money gets you:

Access to Brighton Area Schools, one of the most respected districts in Livingston County.
A bustling, family-friendly downtown packed with restaurants, coffee shops, and small boutiques.
Easy access to Brighton Recreation Area, Kensington Metropark, and Island Lake State Recreation Area—three of Michigan’s best outdoor escapes.
A strong local economy with a median household income above many surrounding areas.

And let’s not forget Brighton’s small-town charm—you can attend art festivals, dine lakeside, and still be just 40 minutes from downtown Detroit.

Is Brighton, Michigan Affordable?

Trail Town Spotlight: The Outdoor Guide to Brighton, Michigan

The short answer: it depends on your expectations.

If you’re coming from Ann Arbor or metro Detroit, Brighton will likely feel reasonable. But if you’re comparing it to small rural towns in Michigan’s thumb or upper peninsula, it’s on the pricier side.

Still, considering its location, schools, safety, and amenities, Brighton delivers long-term value—especially for families and professionals seeking suburban convenience with a dash of nature.

Final Thoughts

Brighton, Michigan isn’t the cheapest place to live—but like that higher-quality brand on the shelf, it’s worth it. Between the strong housing market, top-notch schools, and endless recreation options, it’s easy to see why so many people are making Brighton home.

If you’re thinking about relocating to or within Michigan, contact us anytime — we’d love to help you find the perfect place to call home.

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FAQ: Cost of Living in Brighton, Michigan

1. Is Brighton, Michigan an expensive place to live?

Compared to the Michigan average, slightly. But compared to most U.S. metro areas, Brighton is very affordable.

2. What’s the average home price in Brighton?

As of 2025, around $310K–$330K, depending on neighborhood and property size.

3. Is Brighton good for families?

Absolutely. It’s known for excellent schools, safe neighborhoods, and lots of family-friendly events.

4. What’s the average rent in Brighton, MI?

About $1,200/month for a two-bedroom apartment, though prices vary by location.

5. Does Brighton have good schools?

Yes, Brighton Area Schools consistently rank among Michigan’s best for academics and athletics.

6. How far is Brighton from Detroit and Ann Arbor?

Roughly 40 minutes to either city via I-96 and US-23, making it great for commuters.

7. What are the top attractions in Brighton?

Downtown Brighton, Brighton Mill Pond, Kensington Metropark, and Island Lake State Recreation Area are local favorites.

8. Are taxes high in Brighton?

Property taxes average around $4,000–$6,000 annually, typical for Oakland/Livingston County suburbs.

9. Is it cheaper to live in Brighton than in Novi or Northville?

Generally, yes. Novi and Northville tend to be pricier due to luxury developments and larger commercial hubs.

10. What industries drive Brighton’s economy?

Healthcare, education, retail, and manufacturing lead the way, with easy access to jobs across Metro Detroit.