These 5 Michigan Towns Are Positioned for Major Growth

What if I told you there are five towns in Metro Detroit that could look very different over the next several years — and not because of hype, but because of measurable development activity already underway?

These are places that flew under the radar for years and are now showing real signs of momentum: building permits, infrastructure investment, employer expansion, and home prices that — at least for now — remain relatively accessible.

If you care about smart timing, long-term livability, or simply understanding where growth is concentrating in Southeast Michigan, this is one to save.

Belleville

Credit: https://visitdetroit.com/inside-the-d/belleville-michigan-guide/

Belleville is quietly transitioning from a lakeside commuter town into a growth corridor between Detroit and Ann Arbor.

One major regional driver is Ford’s BlueOval Battery Park in Marshall — a $3.5 billion EV battery facility expected to create over 2,500 jobs, according to Ford and state economic development announcements. While the plant isn’t in Belleville, nearby communities are already preparing for spillover housing demand.

Belleville has approved 400+ residential units over the past two years, more than triple its historical pace based on city permit records. Commercial projects — including retail and medical facilities — are also in planning stages, along with downtown streetscape and public space improvements.

The median home price currently sits around $250,000, which remains lower than nearby Canton or Ann Arbor. While walkability and neighborhood connectivity are still improving, the combination of location, development, and pricing places Belleville firmly on the growth radar.

Milan

Milan is a classic “sleeper” town that’s outgrowing its label.

According to Census estimates, Milan’s population has increased by nearly 8% since 2020, prompting the city to plan for expansion. Planning commission approvals show 700+ new housing units underway or approved across major subdivisions.

A $12 million downtown investment has funded new streetscapes, sidewalks, and storefront revitalization. Local economic development reports also show small business growth of nearly 20% over three years, supported by state and local grant programs.

Median home prices range from $240,000–$260,000, and proximity to US-23 makes Milan commuter-friendly for Ann Arbor, Ypsilanti, and Toledo. Broadband infrastructure is still improving in some areas, though fiber expansion projects are in progress.

For buyers seeking early-stage momentum without losing small-town character, Milan checks a lot of boxes.

Holly

Holly’s growth story is centered around downtown reinvestment and residential expansion.

The city received a $5.2 million state redevelopment grant, supporting historic renovations, streetscape upgrades, and pedestrian-oriented design. Developers have also filed plans for approximately 350 new residential units over the next 18–24 months.

While Holly itself isn’t landing major employers, job growth in nearby Grand Blanc and Fenton is expected to support local housing demand. Median home prices average around $225,000, significantly below Clarkston and White Lake for similar housing types.

Public transit options are limited, but access to M-59 and I-75 keeps Holly regionally connected. For buyers seeking affordability with character, Holly remains one of Oakland County’s more balanced growth markets.

New Baltimore

New Baltimore is one of Macomb County’s most active development zones.

A $14 million downtown revitalization plan includes marina upgrades, boardwalk improvements, stormwater infrastructure, and public gathering spaces. Since 2022, the city has approved 1,000+ new residential units, including large-scale waterfront and mixed-use developments.

Commercial growth is following rooftops, with new medical facilities, logistics operations, and major retail projects either completed or underway.

Median home prices hover near $270,000, with waterfront properties often listing substantially higher. Rapid growth has placed pressure on schools and roads, which the city is addressing through long-term capital planning and proposed bonds.

For buyers prioritizing water access, infrastructure investment, and long-term appreciation, New Baltimore stands out on the east side.

Clawson

Clawson may be small — just 2.2 square miles — but its growth is intentional.

A new Downtown Master Plan emphasizes smart density, walkability, and infill development. Over the past two years, more than 220 residential units have been approved, including loft-style condos and modern duplexes near Main Street.

More than 15 mixed-use projects have been proposed or approved, supported by streetscape upgrades, facade grants, and public art initiatives. The result is a downtown that feels increasingly vibrant while maintaining its scale.

Median home prices average around $285,000, still well below Royal Oak’s ~$380,000 average. Inventory is limited, which contributes to upward price pressure — a constraint for buyers, but a key driver of value growth.

Final Takeaway

These five towns aren’t “guaranteed wins,” but they do share something important: documented momentum.

Permits, infrastructure funding, job proximity, and housing affordability all point to meaningful change already in progress.

So which one surprised you the most? And which do you think has the strongest long-term upside?

If you’re thinking about moving to Michigan — tomorrow or years from now — feel free to reach out. I’m always happy to be a resource, and there’s a link to the Living in Michigan newsletter in the description if you want to stay up to date on trends like these.