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

By Andrew McManamonPlaces To Live In Michigan

Introduction

Livonia is one of those cities people tend to recognize even if they’ve never lived there. It’s large, well-established, and woven into the everyday rhythm of Metro Detroit. Many people exploring relocation options look at Livonia because it offers a wide range of housing, reliable infrastructure, and access to jobs, shopping, and recreation without feeling overly dense or rushed.
Living here isn’t about chasing trends—it’s about consistency, convenience, and having most of what you need within a short drive.

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

Search For All Homes For Sale

See My Home's Current Value

Where Is Livonia, Michigan Located?

Livonia is located in western Wayne County and is part of the Detroit metropolitan area. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, the city sits west of Detroit and is bordered by communities such as Plymouth, Westland, Farmington Hills, and Redford Township.

From a transportation standpoint, Livonia is positioned near several major highways. I-96 runs along the northern edge of the city, while I-275 provides north–south access. Michigan Department of Transportation maps show these routes connecting Livonia to downtown Detroit, Ann Arbor, and surrounding employment centers.

Cost of Living in Livonia, Michigan

Cost of living in Livonia tends to align closely with Michigan averages while remaining below the national average. According to BestPlaces.net, Livonia’s overall cost of living index reflects moderate housing costs compared to many larger U.S. metro suburbs.
Housing is the biggest variable. Based on U.S. Census Bureau American Community Survey data, Livonia’s median home value is higher than some nearby Downriver communities but generally lower than many Oakland County suburbs.
Utilities and transportation costs are consistent with Metro Detroit norms. Bureau of Labor Statistics regional consumer data shows that energy and transportation spending in the Detroit area typically tracks close to statewide averages.

Real Estate & Housing Overview

Livonia has a diverse housing stock, largely built between the 1950s and 1980s. According to U.S. Census Bureau housing data, single-family homes make up most residential properties, along with townhomes, condominiums, and apartment communities spread throughout the city.
Common home styles include brick ranches, colonials, and split-level designs on modest to mid-sized lots. New construction exists but is limited, usually appearing as infill developments or smaller condo projects rather than large subdivisions.
Market summaries from sources like Niche.com and regional MLS data indicate steady demand and consistent resale activity, reflecting Livonia’s long-term stability rather than rapid price swings.

Property Taxes in Livonia

Property taxes in Livonia follow Michigan’s millage-based system. According to the Michigan Department of Treasury, property taxes are calculated using taxable value, which may increase annually but is capped under Michigan law until a property transfers ownership.

Eligible homeowners may qualify for the Principal Residence Exemption (PRE), which can exempt a portion of school operating taxes, as outlined by the Michigan Department of Treasury.

Because millage rates vary by jurisdiction and voter-approved measures, actual tax amounts differ by address. Verifying current rates with the City of Livonia or Wayne County is recommended before making financial assumptions.

Things to Do & Lifestyle

Livonia offers a lifestyle centered on parks, recreation, and everyday convenience rather than a single downtown core.

Parks and trails: The city is closely connected to Hines Park, a large Wayne County park that includes trails, picnic areas, and riverfront scenery, according to Wayne County Parks.

Lakes and outdoor spaces: Newburgh Lake and surrounding green areas provide additional outdoor access, as listed by the Michigan Department of Natural Resources.

Shopping and dining: Laurel Park Place and surrounding commercial corridors serve as regional shopping hubs.

Community activities: Livonia’s Parks & Recreation department hosts programs and events throughout the year, with schedules published through official city channels rather than fixed annual calendars.

H3: Schools & Education (Neutral Framing)

Livonia is primarily served by Livonia Public Schools, with portions of the city also zoned for neighboring districts depending on address. According to the National Center for Education Statistics, the district operates multiple elementary, middle, and high schools within city boundaries.

For general context, GreatSchools.org and Niche.com provide publicly available school profiles and summary ratings. These resources are best used as starting points alongside direct district communication and school visits.

Pros & Cons of Living in Livonia

Pro: Central location in western Wayne County with access to I-96 and I-275, based on MDOT mapping.
Pro: Wide range of housing types and established neighborhoods, according to U.S. Census Bureau data.
Pro: Strong park access, including proximity to Hines Park and regional trails, per Wayne County Parks.
Pro: Consistent housing market activity without extreme volatility, based on MLS and Niche summaries.
Con: Limited large-scale new construction compared to rapidly growing suburbs.
Con: Car-dependent travel patterns, typical for much of Metro Detroit, per regional transportation data.
Con: Property tax totals vary by address and exemptions, requiring individual verification.

Frequently Asked Questions About Living in Livonia, Michigan

Is Livonia in Wayne County?

Yes. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, Livonia is located in Wayne County, Michigan.
Is Livonia part of Metro Detroit?

Yes. Livonia is included in the Detroit metropolitan statistical area.
What highways serve Livonia?

I-96 and I-275 provide major access points, according to Michigan Department of Transportation maps.
How far is Livonia from downtown Detroit?

Driving distance varies by route, but Livonia is west of Detroit, per U.S. Census Bureau geography data.
Is Livonia close to Ann Arbor?

Yes. I-96 and M-14 provide direct routes toward Ann Arbor.
What types of homes are common in Livonia?

Ranches, colonials, and split-level homes are common, based on Census housing data.
Are there parks in Livonia?

Yes. Livonia has local parks and direct access to Hines Park, according to Wayne County Parks.
Does Livonia have lakes?

Newburgh Lake is located within city limits, per Michigan DNR listings.
What school district serves Livonia?

Livonia Public Schools primarily serve the city, per NCES data.
Is Livonia considered walkable?

Most daily activities are car-oriented, typical of suburban Metro Detroit communities.
How do property taxes work in Livonia?

Taxes are based on taxable value and millage rates, per the Michigan Department of Treasury.
Is there public transportation in Livonia?

SMART bus services operate in Livonia, according to regional transit information.
Are there apartments in Livonia?

Yes. Census data shows a mix of single-family and multifamily housing.
Where can I check local programs and events?

The City of Livonia’s official website provides the most current information.

To Conclude:

If you're looking to move to, from, or within the state of Michigan in one day or a million, I help people do just that and I love it as a Michigan Realtor. Please reach out anytime for help — I’m happy to be your go-to resource.