Brighton, Michigan
Located just 40 minutes from Detroit and 20 minutes from Ann Arbor, Brighton has become the suburb of choice for those who seek the amenities of city life and the friendliness of a small town.
When talking to someone about Brighton, things you might hear are:
- Family friendly
- Vibrant
- Trendy
- Contemporary
The population of Brighton has increased by over 12 percent over the last 10 years. What is the major reason for the growth? More and more young professionals and established families see the value in raising a family and enjoying life in Brighton. Centrally located, Brighton is a modest commute to both Detroit and Ann Arbor, which makes it the ideal spot for those who work the in the city, but prefer a more laid back place to call home. Auto industry workers and University of Michigan employees have especially come to appreciate living in Brighton.
What makes Brighton a great place to raise a family?
- As far as education goes, Brighton has a number of elementary great elementary schools and in 2016 Brighton High School was ranked in the top 1000 schools in the country by US News and earned a silver medal. The Charyl Stockwell Academy is another sought after education option, offering classes for grades K-12.
- For those who are lifelong residents, they remember when Brighton was just a few shops downtown, surrounded by rural area. Even though Brighton has grown substantially, it has retained that small town neighborly feel.
- Brighton remains a low crime area, falling well below the national average for violent and property crimes. In addition, the ratio of police per residents is higher than the Michigan average.
Brighton, Michigan Real Estate
The real estate market in Brighton, Michigan is typically the strongest in Livingston County. After the recession, home prices in Brighton have appreciated more and at a faster rate than the surrounding areas in Livingston County. With sales price increasing an average of 5% per year since 2010, Brighton continues to attract those who want to live in a market with stability.
In 2015, according to MLS data, the median residential sale price was $250,000 and the average days on market was 66 days. For condos, the median sale price was $186,000 and an average of 57 days on market.
Residential homes in the city of Brighton are extremely desirable due to their proximity to the shopping district and nearby activity. Many homes have been flipped and restored or added on to for more square footage. Several higher end subdivisions are located just outside the city and provide homeowners with enough privacy, but still just a few minutes’ drive to downtown. Pine Creek Ridge, Oak Pointe, and The Dominion all offer larger custom built homes in private communities with additional amenities. In Brighton Township, east of the city, you’ll find that many of the homes are situated on larger lots with more space.
Living in Brighton
Schools
Elementary Schools
- Hawkins Elementary
- Hilton Elementary
- Hornung Elementary
- Spencer Elementary
Middle Schools
- Maltby Intermediate
- Scranton Middle School
High Schools
- Brighton High School
- The Bridge Alternative High School
Activities and Events in Brighton, MI
In addition to the numerous boutiques and shops found in the downtown shopping district, there are events and festivals each year that draw significant public turnout. Ladies Night, A Taste of Brighton, and the Brighton Arts and Music Festival are just a few.
For those who enjoy outdoor fun, there is plenty to do throughout the year. In Brighton you will find Island Lake State Recreation Area, Brighton Recreation Area, and the Kensington Metroparks. Swimming, biking, kayaking, fishing, are just a few things that can be enjoyed. Owned by the Vail Resorts, Mt. Brighton is a winter destination for skiing and snowboarding in southeast Michigan. Having undergone $10 million in renovations and upgrades over the last few years, Mt. Brighton is becoming more and more popular among all ages.
Brighton is also home to many great golf courses including Oak Pointe Country Club, Huntmore Golf Club, The Golf Club at Mt. Brighton, and dozens more in the surrounding area.
Another staple in Brighton is the MJR Cinema 20, located in the Brighton Town Square shopping center. The large theater is frequented by guests from all over as it is one of the nicest around. Nearby is Sky Zone Trampoline Park, which has grown increasingly popular for not just the kids, but people of all ages who want to have fun. You can enjoy birthday parties, group events, or participate in different activities and programs.
Shopping in Brighton
Green Oak Village Place is a shopping and restaurant center located in Green Oak Township, just outside the city of Brighton near the US-23 and I-96 interchange. The mall was opened in 2006 and is in a nice, well-maintained setting that includes sculptures and fountains. Some of the anchor stores include J.C. Penny, Dick’s Sporting Goods, Barnes and Noble, and HomeGoods. The center is home to several restaurants including Buffalo Wild Wings, Panera Bread and Johnny Carino’s.
Commute times by car
Ann Arbor: 20 minutes
Detroit/ Detroit Metro Airport: 40 minutes
Lansing: 45 minutes
Windsor, Canada: 50 minutes
Chicago: 4 hours
