Michigan is a state that boasts an array of economic and social diversity, ranging from the bustling metropolis of Detroit to the rural farmland of the Upper Peninsula. The Great Lakes State has something to offer everyone. However, some cities in Michigan stand out from the rest in terms of wealth.
According to a recent study by the U.S. Census Bureau, the wealthiest city in Michigan is Birmingham, with a median household income of $178,894. This city is renowned for its upscale shopping, dining, and entertainment options, along with its exceptional schools and safe neighborhoods.
Other affluent cities in Michigan include Bloomfield Hills, Grosse Pointe Farms, Beverly Hills, and Huntington Woods, all boasting median household incomes exceeding $150,000 and offering residents a high quality of life.
So, what factors contribute to the affluence of these cities? Several factors are responsible for the high incomes of Michigan’s wealthiest inhabitants. One of these is the state’s robust economy, which is home to numerous Fortune 500 companies, such as General Motors, Ford Motor Company, and Whirlpool Corporation. These businesses provide high-paying employment opportunities for thousands of Michigan residents.
Another factor that adds to the prosperity of Michigan’s richest cities is the state’s outstanding education system. Michigan has some of the top public schools in the nation, attracting families with young children, who often have higher incomes than families without children or those with older children.
Finally, Michigan’s wealthiest cities are situated in some of the most desirable parts of the state, close to major metropolitan areas, and offer a range of recreational activities, coupled with low crime rates. As a result, they are appealing to individuals searching for a high quality of life.
If you are looking for a city with a high median household income, Michigan offers several choices. These cities provide residents with excellent schools, a high quality of life, and a variety of recreational activities. If you are planning to relocate to Michigan, be sure to consider one of these affluent cities.
Here is a list of the 10 richest cities in Michigan in 2023:
1:- Barton Hills
Barton Hills is one of the wealthiest cities in Michigan, located in Washtenaw County. According to recent census data, the city has a median household income of $250,001, making it one of the most affluent communities in the state.
Barton Hills is a small, exclusive community with a population of just over 300 residents. It is known for its beautiful homes, tree-lined streets, and tranquil surroundings. The city is located just a few miles from Ann Arbor, a vibrant college town and home to the University of Michigan.
One of the factors that contributes to the affluence of Barton Hills is its proximity to Ann Arbor. Many of the city’s residents work in Ann Arbor and are employed by the university or one of its affiliated research institutions. These jobs provide high salaries, which help to support the high cost of living in the area.
Another factor that adds to the wealth of Barton Hills is its excellent education system. The city is served by the Ann Arbor Public Schools, which are consistently ranked as some of the best schools in the state. This attracts families with young children who value education and are willing to pay a premium to live in a community with outstanding schools.
Barton Hills is also located in a beautiful part of Michigan. The city is surrounded by parks and nature preserves, providing residents with ample opportunities for outdoor recreation. The nearby Huron River is a popular destination for fishing, kayaking, and other water activities.
In terms of real estate, Barton Hills is known for its luxury homes. Many of the homes in the city are situated on large, wooded lots and offer stunning views of the surrounding landscape. The cost of living in Barton Hills is high, but residents enjoy a high quality of life in a safe, peaceful community.
If you are considering relocating to Michigan and are looking for an exclusive, upscale community, Barton Hills is definitely worth considering. With its excellent schools, proximity to Ann Arbor, and beautiful natural surroundings, it is no surprise that it is one of the wealthiest cities in the state.
2:- Lake Angelus
Lake Angelus is a small, affluent city located in Oakland County, Michigan. With a population of just over 300 residents, it is one of the smallest cities in the state. However, it is also one of the wealthiest, with a median household income of $240,000.
One of the factors that contributes to the affluence of Lake Angelus is its location. The city is situated on a beautiful, spring-fed lake of the same name. The lake is private and accessible only to residents of the city, which adds to its exclusivity. Many of the homes in Lake Angelus are situated on the lake and offer stunning views of the water and surrounding landscape.
Another factor that adds to the wealth of Lake Angelus is its excellent school system. The city is served by the Pontiac School District, which includes some of the highest-performing schools in the state. This attracts families with young children who are willing to pay a premium to live in a community with outstanding schools.
In terms of real estate, Lake Angelus is known for its luxury homes. Many of the homes in the city are situated on large, wooded lots and offer a high degree of privacy. The cost of living in Lake Angelus is high, but residents enjoy a high quality of life in a safe, exclusive community.
One of the most attractive features of Lake Angelus is its natural surroundings. The city is surrounded by parks and nature preserves, providing residents with ample opportunities for outdoor recreation. The lake is popular for swimming, boating, and fishing, and the nearby Bald Mountain State Recreation Area offers miles of hiking and biking trails.
If you are considering relocating to Michigan and are looking for an exclusive, upscale community with beautiful natural surroundings, Lake Angelus is definitely worth considering. With its excellent schools, stunning lakefront homes, and abundant outdoor recreation opportunities, it is no surprise that it is one of the wealthiest cities in the state.
3:- Bloomfield Hills
Bloomfield Hills is a city located in Oakland County, Michigan. With a population of around 4,000 residents, it is one of the smaller cities in the area. However, it is also one of the wealthiest, with a median household income of over $175,000.
One of the key factors that contributes to the affluence of Bloomfield Hills is its location. The city is situated in a beautiful, wooded area and is known for its large, luxurious homes and estates. Many of the homes in Bloomfield Hills are situated on large, private lots and offer a high degree of exclusivity and privacy.
Another factor that adds to the wealth of Bloomfield Hills is its excellent school system. The city is served by the Bloomfield Hills School District, which includes some of the top-rated schools in the state. This attracts families with young children who are willing to pay a premium to live in a community with outstanding schools.
Bloomfield Hills is also home to a number of high-end shopping and dining options. The nearby Somerset Collection is one of the premier shopping destinations in the state, with a wide range of luxury retailers and restaurants.
In terms of recreation, Bloomfield Hills offers a variety of options for residents. The city is home to several parks and nature preserves, including the 319-acre Bloomfield Hills Nature Center. The area also offers numerous golf courses and country clubs, as well as access to nearby lakes and waterways.
If you are considering moving to Michigan and are looking for a community with luxurious homes, outstanding schools, and plenty of high-end shopping and dining options, Bloomfield Hills is definitely worth considering. With its stunning natural surroundings, exclusive homes, and access to top-rated schools, it is no surprise that it is one of the wealthiest cities in the state.
4:- Orchard Lake Village
Orchard Lake Village is a city located in Oakland County, Michigan. With a population of around 2,000 residents, it is one of the smaller cities in the area. However, it is also one of the wealthiest, with a median household income of over $200,000.
One of the main reasons for the affluence of Orchard Lake Village is its location. The city is situated on the shores of Orchard Lake, one of the largest lakes in the area. This offers residents a wide range of recreational activities, including boating, fishing, and swimming.
Another factor that adds to the wealth of Orchard Lake Village is its exclusive homes and estates. Many of the homes in the area are situated on large, private lots and offer a high degree of privacy and exclusivity. The area is known for its stunning lakefront properties and luxurious estates.
Orchard Lake Village is also home to several highly-rated private schools, including St. Mary’s Preparatory and Orchard Lake St. Mary’s. This attracts families with young children who are looking for an outstanding education in a community with a high quality of life.
In terms of recreation, Orchard Lake Village offers a variety of options for residents. The city is home to several parks and nature preserves, including the Orchard Lake Nature Sanctuary. The area also offers numerous golf courses and country clubs, as well as access to nearby lakes and waterways.
If you are considering moving to Michigan and are looking for a community with exclusive homes, outstanding schools, and plenty of recreational opportunities, Orchard Lake Village is definitely worth considering. With its stunning lakefront properties, access to top-rated private schools, and a wide range of recreational activities, it is no surprise that it is one of the wealthiest cities in the state.
5:- Birmingham
Birmingham is a city located in Oakland County, Michigan. It is one of the wealthiest cities in the state, with a median household income of $178,894. The city is known for its high-end shopping, dining, and entertainment options, as well as its excellent schools and safe neighborhoods.
One of the reasons for Birmingham’s affluence is its location. The city is situated in the heart of Oakland County, which is one of the most prosperous counties in the United States. This has led to a strong local economy, with many residents working in high-paying industries such as finance, healthcare, and technology.
Birmingham is also home to several exclusive neighborhoods, such as Quarton Lake Estates and the highly sought-after area known as “The Triangle.” These neighborhoods feature some of the most luxurious homes in the area, with large private lots and stunning architecture.
In terms of education, Birmingham is home to some of the best public schools in the state. The city’s high school, Seaholm High School, consistently ranks among the top high schools in Michigan. In addition, Birmingham is home to several highly-rated private schools, including Detroit Country Day School and the Roeper School.
Birmingham also offers a variety of recreational activities for its residents. The city has several parks and nature preserves, including the popular Booth Park and Shain Park. The city is also home to the Birmingham Farmers Market, which offers locally-grown produce and handmade goods.
If you are considering moving to Michigan and are looking for a community with excellent schools, luxurious homes, and a wide range of recreational activities, Birmingham is definitely worth considering. With its strong local economy, exclusive neighborhoods, and outstanding schools, it is no surprise that it is one of the wealthiest cities in the state.
6:- Grosse Pointe Farms
Grosse Pointe Farms is a city located in Wayne County, Michigan. It is one of the wealthiest cities in the state, with a median household income of over $150,000. The city is known for its beautiful homes, tree-lined streets, and exclusive waterfront properties.
One of the main reasons for Grosse Pointe Farms’ affluence is its location. The city is situated on the shores of Lake St. Clair and is home to several exclusive waterfront properties. These properties offer stunning views of the lake and access to a variety of water-based recreational activities.
Grosse Pointe Farms is also home to some of the best public and private schools in the state. The city’s public school district, Grosse Pointe Public Schools, consistently ranks among the top districts in Michigan. The city is also home to several highly-rated private schools, including Grosse Pointe Academy and University Liggett School.
In addition to its excellent schools and exclusive waterfront properties, Grosse Pointe Farms offers a variety of recreational activities for its residents. The city has several parks, including Pier Park and Lakefront Park, which offer a range of outdoor activities such as tennis, basketball, and playgrounds. The city also has a private yacht club, the Grosse Pointe Yacht Club, which offers sailing, power boating, and social activities for its members.
If you are looking for a community with excellent schools, exclusive waterfront properties, and a range of recreational activities, Grosse Pointe Farms is definitely worth considering. Its beautiful homes, tree-lined streets, and access to Lake St. Clair make it one of the most desirable places to live in Michigan.
7:- Beverly Hills
Beverly Hills is a village located in Oakland County, Michigan. It is one of the wealthiest communities in the state, with a median household income of over $150,000. The village is known for its beautiful homes, excellent schools, and convenient location.
One of the reasons for Beverly Hills’ affluence is its proximity to major metropolitan areas. The village is located just 15 miles north of downtown Detroit, making it a convenient place to live for those who work in the city. Beverly Hills is also just a short drive from other major cities in the region, such as Troy, Southfield, and Bloomfield Hills.
Beverly Hills is also known for its excellent schools. The village is served by the Birmingham Public Schools district, which is consistently ranked as one of the best school districts in Michigan. The district offers a range of educational programs, including advanced placement courses, honors programs, and foreign language classes.
In addition to its convenient location and excellent schools, Beverly Hills offers a range of recreational activities for its residents. The village has several parks, including Beverly Park and Riverside Park, which offer playgrounds, picnic areas, and sports fields. The village is also located near several golf courses, including the Birmingham Country Club and the Beverly Hills Club.
If you are looking for a community with excellent schools, a convenient location, and a range of recreational activities, Beverly Hills is definitely worth considering. Its beautiful homes, tree-lined streets, and access to major metropolitan areas make it one of the most desirable places to live in Michigan.
8:- Huntington Woods
Huntington Woods is a small city located in southeastern Michigan, known for its affluence and high quality of life. With a median household income of over $150,000, it is one of the wealthiest cities in the state.
One of the key factors contributing to the affluence of Huntington Woods is its proximity to major metropolitan areas. The city is located just a few miles north of downtown Detroit, making it an ideal place to live for those who work in the city. Its convenient location also provides easy access to other major cities in the region, such as Royal Oak, Southfield, and Bloomfield Hills.
Huntington Woods is also known for its excellent schools. The city is served by the Berkley School District, which is highly regarded for its academic programs and extracurricular activities. The district offers a range of educational opportunities, including honors classes, advanced placement courses, and foreign language programs.
In addition to its location and excellent schools, Huntington Woods offers a range of recreational activities for its residents. The city has several parks, including Scotia Park and Rackham Golf Course, which offer playgrounds, picnic areas, and sports fields. The city is also home to the Huntington Woods Recreation Center, which offers a range of programs and activities for residents of all ages.
If you are looking for a community with excellent schools, a convenient location, and a high quality of life, Huntington Woods is definitely worth considering. Its beautiful homes, tree-lined streets, and access to major metropolitan areas make it one of the most desirable places to live in Michigan.
9:- East Grand Rapids
East Grand Rapids is a city located in western Michigan, known for its affluent community and high quality of life. With a median household income of over $100,000, it is one of the wealthiest cities in the state.
One of the key factors contributing to the affluence of East Grand Rapids is its location. The city is situated just a few miles southeast of downtown Grand Rapids, making it an ideal place to live for those who work in the city. Its convenient location also provides easy access to other major cities in the region, such as Kalamazoo, Lansing, and Detroit.
East Grand Rapids is also known for its excellent schools. The city is served by the East Grand Rapids Public Schools, which is highly regarded for its academic programs and extracurricular activities. The district offers a range of educational opportunities, including honors classes, advanced placement courses, and foreign language programs.
In addition to its location and excellent schools, East Grand Rapids offers a range of recreational activities for its residents. The city has several parks, including John Collins Park and Reeds Lake, which offer playgrounds, picnic areas, and sports fields. The city is also home to the East Grand Rapids Community Center, which offers a range of programs and activities for residents of all ages.
If you are looking for a community with excellent schools, a convenient location, and a high quality of life, East Grand Rapids is definitely worth considering. Its beautiful homes, tree-lined streets, and access to major metropolitan areas make it one of the most desirable places to live in Michigan.
10:- Northville
Northville is a historic city located in southeast Michigan, known for its charming downtown area, high-quality schools, and affluent community. With a median household income of over $100,000, it is one of the wealthiest cities in the state.
One of the key factors contributing to the affluence of Northville is its location. The city is situated just a few miles northwest of the bustling metropolis of Detroit, making it an ideal place to live for those who work in the city. Its convenient location also provides easy access to other major cities in the region, such as Ann Arbor and Lansing.
Northville is also known for its excellent schools. The city is served by the Northville Public Schools, which is highly regarded for its academic programs and extracurricular activities. The district offers a range of educational opportunities, including honors classes
What are the benefits of living in a wealthy city?
There are many benefits to living in a wealthy city. Some of the most notable benefits include:
- Higher median household incomes
- Better schools
- More job opportunities
- Lower crime rates
- More amenities and services
- A higher quality of life
What are the drawbacks of living in a wealthy city?
There are also some drawbacks to living in a wealthy city. Some of the most notable drawbacks include:
- Higher cost of living
- More traffic congestion
- More Crime
- Less diversity
- A higher cost of housing
Overall, there are both benefits and drawbacks to living in a wealthy city. It is important to weigh the pros and cons carefully before deciding if a wealthy city is the right place for you to live.
Using data from the Census Bureau’s 2021 American Community Survey 5-Year Projections (the latest data available), including median household income, median household income, median home value and median property taxes paid, we ranked the top 50 analyzed and assembled a list of the richest cities in Michigan. But first, a few notes about the Census data: The Census Bureau measures median household income up to $250,000, with households with higher incomes denoted as “$250,000+.” The situation is similar with the median home value, which goes up to $2 million and anything above that is denoted as “$2,000,000+”. Third, the same goes for the average property taxes paid, which go up to $10,000 and any amount above that is denoted as “$10,000+”.
This is where median household income was particularly useful in our analysis. Median (or median) household income, as opposed to median household income, has exact values for each city in Michigan. All four of these metrics are scored, combined and then cities are ranked by their combined score.
Below you’ll find a table detailing the top 50 richest cities in Michigan and their respective dollar figures for each metric:
Barton Hills, with only 176 homes, ranked as the No. 1 richest town in Michigan. The city, in fact the only village within Ann Arbor Charter Township, has a median household income of over $250,000 per year. Its median household income at $421,909 is among the highest in the state. Barton Hills is one of only two cities in Michigan with a median home value of over $1 million. On top of that, the average property tax paid by homeowners in Barton Hills is over $10,000 a year.
Number 2 Lake Angelus is similar to Barton Hills, notably also home to fewer than 200 total homes. Geographically, Lake Angeles is a suburb of Detroit. The median household income in Lake Angeles is lower than Barton Hills at $186,842 per year. In fact, the No. 3 richest city in Michigan – Bloomfield Hills – actually has a higher median household income than Lake Angelus. However, the latter was pushed to second place due to the higher median household income at $315,177; Its much higher median home value of $1.067 million compared to $852,900 in Bloomfield Hills. Both Lake Angeles and Bloomfield Hills have average property taxes paid in excess of $10,000 a year.
The No. 4 richest city in Michigan is Orchard Lake Village, also a suburb of Detroit, northwest of the city. Orchard Lake Village is smaller, but with about 800 homes, it is much larger than No. 1 Barton Hills and No. 2 Lake Angeles. Interestingly, Orchard Lake Village is the only place in the top 5 wealthiest cities in Michigan where the average property tax paid by homeowners is less than $10,000, about $8,258 per year.
No. 8 Birmingham, a northern suburb of Detroit, is the largest city — by number of homes — to make the list of the top 10 richest cities in Michigan, home to 9,383 homes. Not surprisingly, having significantly more households than Barton Hills and Lake Angeles, for example, Birmingham’s median household income is markedly lower – yet an incredibly high $137,907. What’s more, the median household income in Birmingham is much higher than the median at $219,420. Although the manufacturing industry employs about 18.5% of the workforce in Birmingham, according to DataUSA, incomes in the city are likely higher due to the fact that 26.3% – the largest proportion of the workforce – are employed in management occupations.
Ann Arbor, home to the main campus of the University of Michigan, managed to make the top-50 list of richest Michigan cities, coming in at number 28. Ann Arbor’s median household income exceeds its median household income by more than $30,000: $107,368 versus $73,276.
Looking at all of the top 50 richest cities in Michigan, the average number of households for these 50 locations is approximately 5,418 households. The city with the fewest homes is Wedgwood, which is ranked as the No. 46 richest city in Michigan with only 82 homes; Being located in Wexford County, in the northwest of the Lower Peninsula, Wedgwood is nowhere near Detroit or Ann Arbor. On the other end of the spectrum, No. 28 Ann Arbor was the largest city to make the list, with a total of 49,661 homes.
Despite America’s well-known experience of de-industrialization over the past several decades, Michigan is still home to a serious amount of manufacturing. In the No. 3 richest city in Michigan – Bloomfield Hills – the largest industry is manufacturing, which employs 19% of the workforce. At the same time, however, more than a quarter of the workforce (26.6%) is employed in management occupations, according to DataUSA, which helps explain the higher incomes there. Many of Michigan’s wealthiest cities have substantial manufacturing sectors. Beyond that sector, healthcare and education employ a large portion of the workforce of Michigan’s wealthiest cities. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the state is home to several universities and the salaries of post-secondary teachers (aka college professors) are higher than average.
Geographically, the most immediately recognizable pattern is that Michigan’s richest cities are located in the Detroit metro area. But there are some other interesting places in Michigan that are home to some of its richest cities; For example, No. 6 Grand Beach is located in southwestern Michigan along the shores of Lake Michigan near the Indiana border.
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