Pros and Cons of Living in Bloomfield Hills, Michigan

Pro #1: Top-Ranked Schools

Bloomfield Hills is known for having some of the best educational options in Michigan.

According to Niche.com, the Bloomfield Hills School District ranks #2 out of 619 public school districts in the entire state (Bloomfield Hills School District: https://www.niche.com/k12/d/bloomfield-hills-school-district-mi).

Additionally, Cranbrook Schools—a nationally recognized private institution—draws families from around the world and has been featured in pop culture, including the film 8 Mile.

Nearly 80% of teachers in the district hold advanced degrees, and students have access to 128+ clubs, academic programs, and arts offerings.

Pro #2: Central Location and Short Commutes

Bloomfield Hills is centrally located in Oakland County and bordered by Birmingham, Troy, West Bloomfield Township, and Bloomfield Township.

Woodward Avenue (M-1) cuts through the city, providing quick access to:

• Downtown Birmingham
• Troy business district
• Pontiac
• Downtown Detroit

The average commute is only 22 minutes, below the national average of 26 minutes.

Pro #3: Culture, Recreation, and Things to Do

While Bloomfield Hills is quiet, it offers high-quality amenities, including:

• Oakland Hills Country Club
• Cranbrook Art Museum
• Cranbrook Institute of Science
• Nature preserves and walking trails
• Seasonal community events

It delivers a refined, calm lifestyle with arts, education, and outdoor recreation nearby.

Pro #4: Luxury Homes and Architectural Beauty

Bloomfield Hills has some of the most impressive and architecturally significant homes in Michigan. Many were designed by world-renowned architects or custom-built on large wooded lots.

• 92% of residents own their homes
• Median household income: ~$178,000+
• A high concentration of luxury estates and gated properties

For buyers looking for high-end real estate, few Michigan suburbs compare.

Con #1: No Traditional Downtown

Bloomfield Hills does not have a central walkable downtown area.

For dining, shopping, or nightlife, residents typically drive to Downtown Birmingham — only a few minutes south — which offers boutiques, cafés, restaurants, and events year-round.

Con #2: Higher Cost of Living

Bloomfield Hills is one of the most affluent cities in Michigan and the United States.

According to BestPlaces.net:

• • Cost of living index: 133.3 (U.S. average is 100)
• • Median home price: ~$677,000
• • About 30% of homes exceed $1 million

It caters to those seeking high-end living rather than budget-friendly housing.

Con #3: Very Quiet and Residential

Bloomfield Hills is peaceful and upscale — but this can feel too quiet for residents wanting nightlife, entertainment, or a more active neighborhood environment.

That said, Royal Oak, Birmingham, and Detroit are all close enough to offer more excitement when needed.

Real Estate in Bloomfield Hills, Michigan

Bloomfield Hills offers one of the most elite real estate markets in Michigan. Expect:

• • Large wooded lots
• • Custom luxury homes
• • Historic estates
• • Modern builds with high-end finishes
• • Highly competitive price points

Browse current homes for sale in Bloomfield Hills (HERE).

Is Bloomfield Hills, Michigan a Good Place to Live?

For families, professionals, executives, and anyone seeking privacy, top schools, and luxury living, Bloomfield Hills is one of the best places to live in Metro Detroit.

If you prefer walkable downtowns, nightlife, or lower-cost housing, you may prefer neighboring cities like Birmingham, Royal Oak, or Troy.

Frequently Asked Questions About Bloomfield Hills, Michigan

What is Bloomfield Hills known for?

Bloomfield Hills is known for its luxury homes, nationally ranked schools, the Cranbrook Educational Community, and quiet, wooded neighborhoods.

Is Bloomfield Hills expensive?

Yes. It is one of the most expensive residential areas in Michigan, with a cost of living index above the national average and many homes priced over $1 million.

Are the schools good in Bloomfield Hills?

Yes. Bloomfield Hills School District is one of the top districts in Michigan, and Cranbrook Schools is considered one of the best private schools in the country.

Is Bloomfield Hills safe?

Bloomfield Hills has very low crime rates compared to state and national averages, making it one of Oakland County’s safest communities.

Does Bloomfield Hills have a downtown?

No. Residents typically visit downtown Birmingham, which is a few minutes away and offers dining, entertainment, and shopping.

What is the commute like from Bloomfield Hills?

The average commute is 22 minutes. Major employers in Troy, Birmingham, Auburn Hills, and Detroit are easily accessible.

Is Bloomfield Hills good for families?

Yes. Families choose the area primarily for schools, safety, large yards, private neighborhoods, and access to cultural institutions.

Are there parks or nature preserves in Bloomfield Hills?

Yes. Cranbrook’s campus, the Johnson Nature Center, and local nature trails provide year-round outdoor recreation.

What kind of homes are in Bloomfield Hills?

Homes range from luxury estates and historic homes to mid-century modern builds and newly constructed custom homes.

What is the property tax rate in Bloomfield Hills?

Property taxes vary depending on exact location and millage rates, but they are generally higher than average due to the quality of city services and schools.

Is Bloomfield Hills diverse?

While the area is becoming more diverse over time, some residents feel it still leans more homogeneous compared to larger suburban cities.

Is Bloomfield Hills walkable?

Not particularly. It is car-dependent, with most amenities just outside city limits.

Is Bloomfield Hills near lakes or golf courses?

Yes. The area has multiple lakes nearby and is home to Oakland Hills Country Club, one of the most iconic golf courses in the country.

How far is Bloomfield Hills from Detroit?

Approximately 25–30 minutes depending on traffic.

Is Bloomfield Hills a good place to retire?

Yes, for retirees seeking luxury, privacy, and proximity to healthcare and cultural institutions.

If you’re considering a move to Bloomfield Hills or exploring other areas in Michigan, reach out anytime. I help people relocate to, from, and within Michigan every day — and I’d love to help you figure out whether Bloomfield Hills is the right fit for your lifestyle and budget.