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Transparent & data-driven

How We Ranked the Most Expensive Places

Each city is scored across five weighted categories using daily MLS data and verified government stats. Every metric is benchmarked against both its state average and the national average — dual benchmarking — so a market isn’t judged expensive just for sitting in a high-cost state.

Scoring weights

  • Housing Costs40%

    Sale price, price per sq ft & high-value concentration vs. state and national benchmarks.

  • Rent Burden20%

    Median rent, rent-to-income ratio & rental demand vs. state and national medians.

  • Income vs. Cost Imbalance15%

    The gap between median household income and the cost of living for the area.

  • Market Demand Intensity15%

    Turnover, scarcity, days on market & buyer competition from Houzeo’s live MLS feed.

  • Cost of Living10%

    Utilities, transportation & everyday goods vs. state and national averages — the tiebreaker.

Our data sources

MLS metrics update daily; government data is added on each agency’s release schedule.

Best Expensive Places to Retire in Michigan

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Top 3 Most Expensive Michigan Cities Worth It for Families

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Top 3 Most Expensive Cities Worth It for Young Adults

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Cost of Living in Michigan's Most Expensive Cities

High home prices are only part of the equation in Michigan's priciest markets. Groceries, utilities, and insurance all run above the national average. Coastal homeowner's insurance alone can add thousands to your annual budget. Here is what to expect across five of Michigan's most expensive cities.

CityMedian Home PriceMedian RentCost of LivingRank
Lake Angelus $2,800,000$1,690arrow 158% above national avg1/10
Bloomfield Hills $2,725,000$3,455arrow 98% above national avg2/10
Lake Leelanau $1,180,000$1,770arrow 2% above national avg3/10
Birmingham $1,140,000$3,000arrow 48% above national avg4/10
Franklin $1,038,250$4,800arrow 50% above national avg5/10

Safest Places to Live in Michigan

For many homebuyers, safety is just as important as affordability and quality of life. Michigan is home to several communities that consistently report lower crime rates and maintain strong, family-friendly neighborhoods. Some cities offer residents a sense of security while still providing access to everyday conveniences and amenities. Explore our safest places to live in Michigan rankings to find out which communities stand out the most.

Rank#1

Bloomfield Hills

94/100

Score

Safest Safest

Rank#2

Beverly Hills

92/100

Score

Safest Safest

Rank#3

Rochester Hills

90/100

Score

Safest Safest

Rank#4

Birmingham

89/100

Score

Safest Safest

Rank#5

Northville

84/100

Score

Safest Safest

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the #1 best place to live in Michigan?

Why are some homes in Detroit so expensive?

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Based on information from the Board/Association of REALTORS® (alternatively, from the Realcomp II Ltd. MLS) through Sep 15, 2026, 11:30 PM. All information provided is deemed reliable, but is not guaranteed to be accurate and should be independently verified. IDX provided courtesy of Realcomp II Ltd. via Andover Real Estate & Houzeo, Copyright 2026 Realcomp II Ltd. Shareholders Any use of search facilities of data on the site, other than by a consumer looking to purchase real estate, is prohibited. IDX information is provided exclusively for consumers' personal, noncommercial use and may not be used for any purpose other than to identify prospective properties consumers may be interested in purchasing. The accuracy of all information, regardless of source, is not guaranteed or warranted. All information should be independently verified. Listing Information presented by local MLS brokerage: Andover Real Estate, local REALTOR®- Scott Rubin - (248)206-3666 . Any use of search facilities of data on the site, other than by a consumer looking to purchase real estate, is prohibited. ​© 2024 Realcomp II Ltd. MLS. All Rights Reserved.
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Based on information from MiRealSource through Sep 15, 2026, 11:30 PM . All information is provided exclusively for personal, non-commercial use, and may not be used for any purpose other than to identify prospective properties consumers may be interested in purchasing. The accuracy of all information, regardless of source, is not guaranteed or warranted. All information should be independently verified. Provided through IDX via MiRealSource, Inc. Courtesy of MiRealSource Shareholder. © 2026 MiRealSource. All Rights Reserved.

Important Legal Disclosures

MLS Disclaimers
The market analysis provided on this page is for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial, investment, or legal advice. Data is sourced from public records, industry reports, and third-party providers, and while Houzeo strives for accuracy, we make no guarantees regarding the completeness, accuracy, or timeliness of the information presented.

All estimates, projections, and historical data are based on statistical models and should not be relied upon as predictions of future market conditions. Past performance is not indicative of future results, and real estate market conditions may change due to various economic and regulatory factors. Users are responsible for conducting their own due diligence before making any real estate or financial decisions. Houzeo is not liable for any decisions or actions taken based on the information provided. Any unauthorized use, duplication, or distribution of the data may violate copyright laws and result in legal consequences. Certain information, tools and services on this page may be powered by third-party vendors. Houzeo does not control or guarantee the accuracy, reliability, or functionality of such third-party services.