Farmington Hills, Michigan Living Guide: Housing Market, Schools, Safety & Weekend Fun

By Andrew McManamonPlaces To Live In Michigan

Introduction

Farmington Hills, Michigan is frequently considered by people looking for space, convenience, and a wide range of housing options within Oakland County. As one of the county’s larger cities by land area, it offers a blend of residential neighborhoods, business corridors, and natural spaces.

Living in Farmington Hills tends to appeal to those who want suburban comfort without being too far removed from Metro Detroit amenities. It’s not a single “downtown-centric” city, but rather a collection of neighborhoods connected by major roads and shared services.

Farmington Hills, Michigan Living Guide: Housing Market, Schools, Safety & Weekend Fun

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Where Is Farmington Hills, Michigan Located?

Farmington Hills is located in southeastern Oakland County, bordered by cities such as Novi, Livonia, Southfield, and Farmington. According to U.S. Census Bureau geographic data, it covers more than 30 square miles, making it one of the larger municipalities in the region.

The city has direct access to major roadways including I-696, M-5, I-275, and I-96. This network supports commuting throughout Oakland, Wayne, and Washtenaw counties, based on Michigan state GIS and transportation data.

Cost of Living in Farmington Hills, Michigan

The cost of living in Farmington Hills is generally higher than the Michigan average, driven primarily by housing costs. According to U.S. Census Bureau and Niche.com data, median home values in Farmington Hills are above statewide figures but vary significantly by neighborhood and housing type.

Utilities and transportation expenses align closely with Southeast Michigan averages, based on Bureau of Labor Statistics regional cost data. Overall affordability often depends on housing age, lot size, and proximity to major corridors.

Real Estate & Housing Overview

Farmington Hills offers one of the most diverse housing inventories in Oakland County. According to U.S. Census Bureau housing data, much of the housing stock was built between the 1950s and 1980s, with additional development continuing into the 1990s and early 2000s.

Common home styles include ranches, colonials, split-level homes, and condominium developments. Lot sizes range from compact subdivision parcels to larger wooded properties. New construction exists but is typically limited to infill projects or smaller developments, according to MLS summaries and Niche.com housing data. Market activity is generally steady, reflecting the city’s size and housing variety.

Property Taxes in Farmington Hills

Property taxes in Farmington Hills are calculated using taxable value and local millage rates, which may change based on voter-approved measures. According to the Michigan Department of Treasury, Oakland County municipalities tend to have higher effective tax rates than the state average.

Actual tax obligations vary by property value, exemptions, and millages. No tax outcome can be guaranteed. Current rates and assessment details are published through the City of Farmington Hills and Oakland County Treasurer resources.

Things to Do & Lifestyle

Farmington Hills places a strong emphasis on parks, nature, and community facilities. The city manages an extensive park system, including Heritage Park and the Farmington Hills Nature Center, according to city government sources.

While the city does not have a traditional single downtown, commercial corridors provide dining, shopping, and entertainment options throughout the area. Community events and festivals are hosted annually by the city, contributing to an active but spread-out lifestyle. Additional recreation opportunities are available through nearby county parks and Michigan DNR-managed resources.

Schools & Education (Neutral Framing)

Farmington Hills is primarily served by Farmington Public Schools, with some areas also zoned for neighboring districts. According to GreatSchools.org and Niche.com, the district offers a range of academic programs, specialty tracks, and extracurricular options.

School performance varies by building and grade level. Prospective residents are encouraged to review neutral data sources and evaluate school options based on individual preferences and logistical considerations.

Pros & Cons of Living in Farmington Hills

Pros:

Wide variety of housing options
Extensive park and nature facilities
Strong highway access
Large geographic footprint with diverse neighborhoods

Cons:

Higher property taxes than state averages
Car-dependent layout in many areas
Limited centralized downtown district
Older housing stock in some neighborhoods

Frequently Asked Questions About Living in Farmington Hills, Michigan

What county is Farmington Hills in?

Oakland County, according to U.S. Census Bureau data.
Is Farmington Hills the same as Farmington?

No. Farmington Hills is a separate city that surrounds Farmington.
How far is Farmington Hills from Detroit?

Approximately 20 miles, depending on route and traffic.
Does Farmington Hills have parks?

Yes, the city operates an extensive park system, per City of Farmington Hills resources.
Is public transportation available?

Regional transit is provided by SMART, according to transit authority data.
What types of homes are common?

Ranches, colonials, condos, and split-level homes, per Census housing data.
Is new construction available?

Limited, primarily infill or small developments.
Does Farmington Hills have a downtown?

No traditional centralized downtown, according to city planning resources.
Are there community events?

Yes, hosted throughout the year by the city.
Is Farmington Hills considered suburban?

Yes, based on U.S. Census metropolitan classification.

To Conclude:

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