When we think of Metro Detroit Michigan, Hartland is definitely not an area that comes to mind, the question is why? Stick around and find out.

Living in Hartland, Michigan: What You Really Need to Know

What’s going on everyone — Andrew McManamon here, a Michigan Realtor who helps people move in, move out, and move all around the great state of Michigan.

Hartland is one of those places that rarely comes up when Southeast Michigan is mentioned. It’s kind of like the middle child — quiet, unassuming, and overlooked — but once you actually get to know it, you realize it’s pretty solid.

Where Exactly Is Hartland, Michigan?

Hartland is an unincorporated community and census-designated place (CDP) located in Livingston County.

• The Hartland CDP itself is just 2.28 square miles
• Population: under 1,000 residents
• It includes a very small downtown area, schools, a vet, a sawmill, a senior center, and a handful of side streets

When people talk about Hartland, they’re usually referring to Hartland Township, which is much larger:

• Size: about 37.3 square miles
• Population: roughly 15,500 residents

This is where confusion sets in.

Depending on where you are, Hartland can feel like:

• The end of Brighton
• The start of Howell
• Part of Highland

Just west you’ll hit Ironwood Golf Club (Howell), and just east Prestwick Village Golf Club (Highland). So yes — if you’ve ever driven through and thought, “Wait… where am I right now?” — you’re not alone.

Hartland Michigan Downtown (And Why People Miss It)

Hartland is what I call a “pass-through town.”

Most people think the intersection of US-23 and M-59 is downtown Hartland — and from an amenity standpoint, it kind of is — but the actual downtown is smaller and quieter.

That US-23 / M-59 corridor is where traffic flows, shopping exists, and development continues. It’s not overly congested outside of rush hour, but M-59 often becomes an alternative east-west route when expressways shut down — and lately, Michigan construction season has made that… interesting.

Still, this intersection is exactly why Hartland deserves attention.

Credit: https://thelivingstonpost.com/10-things-i-love-about-hartland-and-5-things-i-dont/

Location & Commute Advantages

Hartland’s location is one of its strongest selling points.

You have:

• US-23 running north/south
• M-59 running east/west

That makes commuting surprisingly easy:

• Brighton: ~10 miles south
• Fenton: ~14 miles north
• Ann Arbor: ~25 miles south
• Detroit: ~50 miles southeast

If you want space, quieter neighborhoods, and still need highway access — Hartland checks that box.

Things to Do in Hartland, Michigan

At the US-23 and M-59 intersection, you’ll find just about everything you need:

• Target
• Meijer
• Emagine Theater
• Rural King
• Planet Fitness
• Coffee shops
• Banks
• Fast food (yes, including Culver’s — I’m there more than I should admit)

For those familiar with the area, you know half of this didn’t exist not that long ago. Hartland Square near Emagine continues to grow, and ongoing construction is generally a positive signal for the local economy.

Growing up, I spent a lot of time here playing hockey at Hartland Sports Center, which also doubles as a gymnastics facility. That was honestly the main reason I even knew I was “in Hartland” at the time.

Outdoor amenities are present — but limited:

• A few golf courses
• Some parks and trails
• Not an overwhelming amount of public recreation

One standout attraction — technically with a Fenton address — is Spicer Orchards.

This place is a fall staple:

• Apple picking
• Winery
• Corn maze
• Hayrides
• Donuts & cider
• Pumpkin patch
• Store with house-made goods
• Playground & animals

It’s family-owned, authentic, and still feels like Michigan.

Lakes & Waterfront Living in Hartland Township

Despite the busy roadways, Hartland Township includes around 14 lakes.

Some notable ones south of M-59 include:

• Round Lake
• Handy Lake
• Maxfield Lake

Long Lake is the largest at approximately 146 acres.

Most lakes here are:

• Smaller
• Private
• Peaceful
• Ideal for buyers who want a quieter waterfront lifestyle without large public boat traffic

Waterfront living is absolutely an option here.

Hartland Michigan Real Estate Market Overview

Hartland Township is one of those areas where privacy, acreage, and value intersect.

Based on MLS data:

• Average sale price: ~$429,869
• Year-over-year increase: ~13%

What stands out is consistency. Hartland avoided the extreme pandemic-era spikes and crashes seen in some Metro Detroit markets.

This area attracts buyers looking for:

• Larger lots
• More privacy
• Newer or higher-end homes
• Less noise
• Lower property taxes compared to Oakland County

At the time of recording:

• Homes range from around $219,900 (2 bed / 1 bath / ~960 sqft)
• Up to $1,085,000 (5 bed / 3.5 bath / 2.4+ acres)

There’s also newer condo construction in Hunter’s Ridge Landings, typically:

• 2 beds / 2 baths
• ~1,500 sqft
• Basements (some with walkouts)
• High-$300s price point

Homes in the $500k–$600k range here often compare to $800k–$1M homes in places like Bloomfield Hills or Birmingham — largely because property tax millage rates are more than 10 mills lower. (* values provided in this article are based on when the video was recorded)

That difference adds up quickly.

Hartland Michigan Rankings & Schools

According to Niche.com rankings:

• #78 of 617 — Best Public Schools in Michigan
• #116 of 789 — Best Places to Raise a Family in Michigan
• #172 of 791 — Best Places to Live in Michigan
• #4 — Best Places to Raise a Family in Livingston County

Hartland schools are a major draw for families relocating from Oakland County.

Is Hartland, Michigan Worth Considering?

Hartland isn’t flashy. It doesn’t try to be trendy.

But if you want:

• Strong schools
• Highway access
• Space and privacy
• More home for your money
• A quieter lifestyle without isolation

Hartland absolutely deserves a closer look.

Frequently Asked Questions About Hartland, Michigan

Is Hartland a city or a township?

Hartland is primarily Hartland Township. The smaller Hartland CDP is an unincorporated census-designated place used only for statistical purposes.

What county is Hartland in?

Hartland is located in Livingston County, Michigan.

Are property taxes lower in Hartland than Oakland County?

Yes. Hartland Township millage rates are significantly lower than many Oakland County communities, often by 10+ mills, which can save homeowners thousands per year.

How far is Hartland from Ann Arbor and Detroit?

Hartland is about 25 miles from Ann Arbor and roughly 50 miles from Detroit, depending on your route.

Does Hartland have lakefront homes?

Yes. Hartland Township has approximately 14 lakes, most of which are private and smaller in size, offering peaceful waterfront living.

Is Hartland good for families?

Yes. Strong school rankings, lower taxes, larger lots, and suburban-rural flexibility make Hartland popular with families.

Is Hartland growing?

Yes. Continued commercial development near US-23 and M-59 and rising home values suggest steady, sustainable growth.

Final Thoughts

So — what do you think about Hartland, Michigan?

Drop your thoughts in the comments.

And if you’re looking to move to, from, or within Michigan, don’t hesitate to reach out. I’m always happy to be a resource.