Best Places to Live in Michigan for Luxury Living

Take the case of Beverly Hills or Grosse Pointe Farms, which stand out, not just for their names, but also their genteel, discreet location and abundance of class. Or the community of Birmingham in Detroit, whose residents have an average annual income of $95,000 and where homes and properties go for upwards of $650,000. But that is just one example - there are plenty of other enclaves in Michigan where the rich and famous converge and congregate, so whether you're looking for upscale living, a prime real estate investment, or are simply curious about the richest areas in the state, this guide will take you through Michigan’s most affluent neighborhoods - and what makes them so desirable to both locals and visitors alike. Come with us as we explore Michigan’s most affluent neighborhoods and discover a wholly different world.

Best places to live in Michigan image

1. Bloomfield Hills

Population: 4.3K

Average property prices: $611,654

Average annual income per household: $200,318

Points of interest: The Affleck House (an architectural tour), Cranbrook Art Museum, Cranbrook House & Gardens

One of Michigan’s wealthiest and most exclusive communities, Bloomfield Hills, boasts grand estates, the lushest landscapes, and of course, a high standard of living. Located in Oakland County and a suburb of Detroit, this city is home to executives, professionals, and sports figures. The median home price in Bloomfield Hills is well over $1 million, with many properties featuring expansive lawns, private pools, and custom architecture. The area is also known for its top-ranked private schools, such as Cranbrook Schools, and its proximity to elite golf courses like Oakland Hills Country Club. Bloomfield Hills was also the home of comedian and actor Robin Williams, Lee Iacocca (who was at one point an executive for Ford and Chrysler), and politician Mitt Romney, grew up here and attended Cranbrook Kingswood School.

2. Birmingham

Population: 21.6K

Average property prices: $667,623

Average annual income per household: $153,125

Points of interest: Shain Park, The Birmingham Museum, Springdale Golf Course, Booth Park, Emagine Birmingham 8 Theater

Birmingham, another suburb of Detroit, offers a blend of luxury and walkability, making it one of the most sought-after neighborhoods in Michigan that’s truly a delight to see. Its motto is ‘A Walkable City,’ and it is located just north of Detroit. Birmingham is a charming, upscale city known for its vibrant downtown, plethora of parks (there are more than 20!), boutique shopping, fine dining, and cultural attractions. Shain Park is in the heart of Birmingham and is the home of various events like art shows and concerts and other events that attract the community surrounding it. The real estate market here features multi-million-dollar mansions, historic homes, and stylish condominiums. With top-rated schools and a thriving social scene, Birmingham attracts affluent families and young professionals. It is the home of famous actor Tim Allen as well as Shane Battier, who played for four basketball teams in the NBA.

3. Grosse Pointe Shores

Population: 2.6K

Average property prices: $710,232

Average annual income per household: $182,000

Points of interest: Edsel and Eleanor Ford House, Grosse Pointe Yacht Club, Trattoria Serventi (located in nearby Grosse Pointe Woods), Osius Park

A city in Macombe and Wayne counties and situated along the shores of Lake St. Clair, Grosse Pointe Shores (officially referred to as the Village of Grosse Pointe Shores, a Michigan city) is synonymous with waterfront luxury. This affluent suburb is known for its stunning lakefront estates, private yacht clubs, and meticulously landscaped properties. Many of Michigan’s business moguls and executives reside here, drawn by the breathtaking views and exclusivity. The neighborhood is home to the historic Edsel & Eleanor Ford House and the prestigious Grosse Pointe Yacht Club.

4. Franklin

Population: 3.1K

Average property prices: $821,398

Average annual income per household: $176,571

Points of interest: Franklin Cider Mill, Franklin Community Park, Franklin Hills Country Club, Park West Gallery, Franklin Village Shopping District

Often referred to as "The Town That Time Forgot," Franklin, a village in Oakland County and a suburb of Detroit, is a historic and highly exclusive neighborhood. Characterized by tree-lined streets, custom-built estates, and a charming downtown village, Franklin offers a serene, suburban lifestyle while maintaining close proximity to Metro Detroit. It is perhaps most famous for The Franklin Cider Mill, which began operations as far back as 1949. The area is known for its affluent residents, excellent schools, and strong community feel, and it was listed as a historic district and has been on the National Register of Historic Places since 1969. The median home values in Franklin often exceed $1 million, although officially, the average home values in the area are listed at a little over $800K.

5. Northville

Population: 5.8K

Average property prices: $540,615

Average annual income per household: $164,877

Points of interest: Maybury State Park, Hines Park (during winter), Three Cedars Farm, Mill Race Village

Northville is a city in Oakland and Wayne counties, and this picturesque and affluent community blends historic charm with modern luxury. The downtown area is filled with boutique shops, fine dining, and cultural events, while the residential areas feature spacious estates and high-end properties. Northville is particularly popular for its events, which makes the city a thriving hub all year round. One such notable event is Art in the Sun, which is an art fair scheduled in June, and another noteworthy event is the Farmers Market, held from May to October. With its highly rated school system and its strong sense of community, Northville is a popular choice for high-net-worth individuals and professionals looking for a balance between suburban tranquility and city convenience. Some of its most famous residents include athletes like Dre Bly, NFL cornerback; Daunte Culpepper, quarterback for the Detroit Lions; and of course, Henry Ford, who was the founder of the Ford Motor Company.

Homes in Bloomfield hills image

6. Beverly Hills

Population: 10.3K

Average property prices: $525,833

Average annual income per household: $175,460

Points of interest: Beverly Hills Park, Beverly Hills Grill (serves the best brunch in Michigan), Michigan Beer Growler Company

The exclusive Beverly Hills neighborhood is where affluence truly shines. Just like its more famous California namesake, this secluded, upscale village offers luxurious estates with sprawling grounds and stunning views. Many of Beverly Hills’ residents are retired professionals, successful entrepreneurs, and high-income earners. While the city is somewhat small, its combination of beautiful surroundings, including lush parks and trails, golf courses, and luxury real estate makes it one of Michigan’s most desirable neighborhoods.

7. Meadowbrook Estates - Troy

Population: 87.5K

Average property prices: $445,000

Average annual income per household: $145,977

Points of interest: Jaycee Park, Sylvan Glen Lake Park, Sylvan Glen Golf Course, Somerset Collection, Top of Troy, Troy Historic Village

Troy is one of Michigan’s top business hubs and is at the heart of Oakland County only 20 minutes from Detroit, and within it lies Meadowbrook Estates, a small neighborhood that epitomizes supreme suburban affluence. Along with top-rated schools like Walsh College and Oakland University, upscale shopping at the Somerset Collection with its more than 180 shops, and proximity to major corporate headquarters, this area is highly desirable among executives and professionals. It comprises over 56 homes and properties with ranch or colonial design, and there are also private decks in many of the homes. Real estate in Meadowbrook Estates also features expansive homes with other high-end amenities, and the neighborhood offers excellent parks and recreational opportunities, such as Jaycee Park with baseball diamonds, soccer fields, and a sand volleyball court, and Sylvan Glen Lake Park, which offers shore fishing and a disc golf course.

8. East Grand Rapids

Population: 11.5K

Average property prices: $607,621

Average annual income per household: $168,487

Points of interest: Grand Rapids Yacht Club, Reeds Lake, John Collins Park, Gaslight Village shopping district

Located in western Michigan in the vicinity of Kent County and part of the metropolitan area of Grand Rapids, East Grand Rapids is known for its scenic waterfront properties, top-tier schools, and charming downtown. Reeds Lake is a focal point of this affluent community, where residents enjoy boating, fine dining, and outdoor activities. Needless to say, many of the homes here are historic and meticulously maintained, with prices often reaching into the multi-million-dollar range. The area's strong sense of community and cultural vibrancy make it one of Michigan’s most desirable places to live. The area’s most famous resident was Gerald Ford, the 38th President, and Betty Ford, the First Lady, but a lot of professional athletes live here as well, including Jim Boylen, coach of the Chicago Bulls, and Luke Glendening, a pro hockey player.

9. Orchard Lake Village

Population: 2.2K

Average property prices: $881,927

Average annual income per household: $212,813

Points of interest: Orchard Lake, Orchard Lake Country Club, Pine Lake Country Club, Orchard Lake Nature Sanctuary

A hidden gem in Oakland County and a suburb of Detroit, Orchard Lake Village is an exclusive community that offers breathtaking lakefront properties and a serene, private atmosphere that’s hard to beat. The area is about 40% composed of water, and it is known for its luxury waterfront estates, some of which sit directly on the water, providing stunning views and private docks. With an emphasis on exclusivity and natural beauty, Orchard Lake Village is home to some of Michigan’s wealthiest residents, with the average household income way above other places in Michigan.

10. Island Lake of Novi – Novi

Population: 3.6K

Average property prices: $439,254

Average annual income per household: $253,451

Points of interest: Wildlife Woods Park, Island Lake of Novi North Park, Maybury State Park, Villa Barr Art Park, Twelve Oaks Mall, Novi Town Center

Novi is one of Michigan’s fastest-growing cities, and within it, Island Lake of Novi stands out as an elite, waterfront community built by the Toll Brothers builders. It boasts the ultimate in lakefront living, and the neighborhood features 170 acres of custom-built estates and resort-style amenities such as a marina and clubhouse. Residents also enjoy access to exclusive facilities, nature trails, and private beaches. Take note: the lake is absolutely private, which means only those living within the community have access. The properties that surround the lake area include condominiums and houses. With its excellent schools and convenient location near shopping centers and business districts, Novi is a prime destination for the most affluent families in and around Michigan.

Island lake of Novi image

What makes these neighborhoods so affluent?

As you may have noticed, these neighborhoods and communities have several distinctive features that signal their affluence and high standards. In short, they stand apart from other communities in Michigan (and other states, besides) due to several factors. Some of the factors that contribute to the affluence of these Michigan neighborhoods include:

Real estate value: Higher property values, luxury amenities, and exclusive communities are factors and aspects that attract high-net-worth individuals.
Top-rated schools: Many of these areas also have highly ranked public and private schools, making them desirable for families.
Proximity to economic hubs: These areas are ideally located near Detroit, Ann Arbor, and Grand Rapids, and they provide easy access to top employers and business centers as well.
Lifestyle & amenities: You will also have easy access to upscale shopping facilities, fine dining establishments, private country clubs and docks, and waterfront living facilities and features. These all add to the prestige of these communities.
Security & privacy: You can also count on security and privacy to be a priority at all times. The residents treasure their privacy and security – hence the gated estates, private roads, and low crime rates, thus making these areas appealing to the wealthy and privileged.

Indeed, Michigan is home to some of the most affluent neighborhoods in the Midwest, offering luxury, exclusivity, and top-tier living experiences. If you’re in the market for a high-end home or are simply fascinated by upscale real estate, these neighborhoods highlight the best of what Michigan has to offer.

True affluence in Michigan is within your reach

Michigan’s most affluent neighborhoods offer a unique cornucopia of luxury, exclusivity, and vibrant community living. Whether it’s through the historic charm of Franklin, the waterfront grandeur of Grosse Pointe Shores, or the walkable sophistication of Birmingham, each area has its own distinct appeal. From high-end shopping and fine dining (if that’s your thing!) to private golf courses and elite schools, these beautiful communities cater to those who seek the finest in real estate and lifestyle. The combination of architectural beauty, picturesque surroundings, and a strong economic presence makes these enclaves stand out among the most desirable places to live in the state.

If you are a potential homeowner or investor, Michigan’s affluent neighborhoods present an opportunity to experience both prestige and comfort - with properties that hold long-term value. And whether you’re drawn to the scenic waterfront of Orchard Lake Village or the bustling, sophisticated charm of East Grand Rapids, there is no shortage of elite living options. But come to think of it, these neighborhoods are not just about wealth - they are about heritage, culture, and a lifestyle that reflects the best of Michigan. If you're seeking an exclusive place to call home, Michigan’s upscale communities are certainly worth exploring.