First Impressions and the Overall Vibe

Driving into New Baltimore feels different right away. The streets are clean, the storefronts are charming, and there’s a constant sense that the water is nearby — even when you can’t see it.

Housing here reflects that Michigan lake-town personality. You’ll see older cottages that have stayed in families for generations sitting next to newer homes with expansive decks, screened-in porches, and sunset views that genuinely stop you in your tracks. The vibe lands somewhere between “weekend getaway” and “why don’t I just live here full time?”

Parks, Waterfront Access, and Outdoor Life

Outdoor space is one of New Baltimore’s biggest strengths. Walter and Mary Burke Park sits right on Anchor Bay and acts as the heart of downtown. There’s a sandy swimming area, playground, picnic tables, and a boardwalk with some of the best waterfront views in Macomb County.

Nearby, Festival Park hosts community events, including the city’s most infamous celebration — the Bay-Rama Fishfly Festival. And yes, it’s exactly what it sounds like. Fishflies show up every June for about a week, and instead of hiding from them, New Baltimore throws a full-blown festival with parades, concerts, and carnival rides. It’s chaotic, loud, and oddly perfect.

For quieter moments, Maynard Memorial Park and Gerrits Nature Sanctuary offer trails, shaded paths, and peaceful green space. Golfers also have Cedar Glen Golf Club just minutes away.

Downtown New Baltimore: Small, Walkable, and Full of Character

Downtown New Baltimore is one of the city’s biggest draws. It’s compact, walkable, and packed with local businesses that actually feel local.

Fins Eatery & Spirits is the go-to waterfront spot, known for seafood, cocktails, and views that somehow make everything taste better. New Green Street Tavern has quickly become a favorite for its modern tavern vibe and craft drinks. And then there’s Bad Brad’s BBQ — a Michigan staple. If you leave town without stopping there, that’s on you.

In summer, patios are packed, boats idle offshore, and downtown feels like a movie set — kids running through the park, neighbors chatting, and live music drifting through the air.

Home Prices in New Baltimore, Michigan

Now let’s talk real estate. As of October 2025, the median sale price in New Baltimore sits around $367,500, up roughly 5% year over year. That’s well above the broader Southeast Michigan median of about $275,000 — and it’s not by accident.

Location, waterfront access, and limited inventory all push values higher. Inland three-bedroom homes generally land in the mid-$300s, while canal homes and waterfront properties often range from the high $500s to $1M+, depending on frontage and condition.

The market here tends to appreciate steadily rather than spike wildly, which is a big reason homes hold their value long-term.

Property Taxes in New Baltimore (What You Should Actually Expect)

New Baltimore falls under the Anchor Bay School District, and the millage rate sits around 40.9885 mills.

Using Michigan’s standard property tax math, a $367,500 home has an estimated taxable value of about $183,750. Multiply that by the millage rate and divide by 1,000, and you’re looking at roughly $7,500 per year in property taxes, before principal residence exemptions.

It’s not cheap, but it’s typical for waterfront Macomb County communities — and Proposal A limits how much taxes can rise annually after purchase.

Schools Serving New Baltimore

Anchor Bay Schools serve New Baltimore and surrounding waterfront communities. It’s a medium-sized district with about 5,400 students, offering a solid balance of academics, athletics, and extracurriculars.

According to Niche, the district earns a B+ rating, with strong marks for teachers, community involvement, and overall student experience. Many families appreciate that the district is large enough for programs, but small enough to feel personal.

The Lifestyle: Why People Choose New Baltimore

The lifestyle here sells itself. Summers are all about boating, barbecues, festivals, and sunsets over Anchor Bay. Fall brings cooler air and quiet walks downtown. Winter slows things down, but the lake views and peaceful streets still shine. Spring wakes everything back up again.

Yes, commutes can be longer if you work downtown. Winter winds off the bay are real. Fishflies are annoying for about a week every June. But most residents will tell you the trade-offs are absolutely worth it.

New Baltimore isn’t pretentious. It’s a real community — families, retirees, boaters, and young couples all sharing the same rhythm.

Frequently Asked Questions About Living in New Baltimore, Michigan

Is New Baltimore a good place to live?

Yes. New Baltimore offers a strong sense of community, waterfront access, good schools, and a walkable downtown.

How far is New Baltimore from Detroit?

New Baltimore is about 35–40 minutes northeast of downtown Detroit, depending on traffic.

Are there waterfront homes in New Baltimore?

Yes. New Baltimore has direct waterfront, canal homes, and marina access along Anchor Bay.

How much do homes cost in New Baltimore?

Most homes range from the mid-$300s inland to $600,000+ for waterfront properties.

Are property taxes high in New Baltimore?

Taxes are higher than inland suburbs but typical for waterfront Macomb County communities.

What school district serves New Baltimore?

New Baltimore is served by the Anchor Bay School District.

What is the Bay-Rama Fishfly Festival?

It’s an annual summer festival celebrating — and surviving — the seasonal fishfly hatch with parades, rides, and concerts.

Is New Baltimore good for families?

Yes. Parks, schools, safety, and community events make it appealing for families.

Is New Baltimore crowded in the summer?

Downtown and the waterfront are busier in summer, but it never feels overly touristy.

Final Thoughts: Is New Baltimore Worth It?

If you want lake life without million-dollar entry prices, New Baltimore is hard to beat. You get waterfront access, a real downtown, solid schools, and a lifestyle that feels like a vacation — without giving up everyday convenience.

So what surprised you most about New Baltimore — the home prices, the lake access, or the fact there’s an entire festival dedicated to fishflies? Drop your thoughts in the comments.

And if you’re thinking about moving to Michigan — whether that’s one day from now or a billion — I help people do exactly that. My contact info’s below, and I’ve linked the Living in Michigan newsletter for updates, guides, and insights I don’t always share publicly.