Choosing a place to raise a family can impact the way a child sees the world.
Niche, a website offering rankings and statistics on towns, schools and colleges, also publishes a ranking of the best places to raise a family. See the rankings below to find out how towns in Oakland County stack up.
These statistics were calculated based on public schools, crime rates, cost of living, and family-friendly amenities. Data for these categories come from the U.S. Census, FBI, BLS, CDC and other data sources. You can find the full methodology here.
This article was updated on Sept. 19, 2024, by Metro Parent’s Audience Development Manager, Katina Beniaris. Her work included adding the 2024 Niche rankings for the “Best Places to Raise a Family in Oakland County.” Questions? Please reach out to katina@metroparent.com.
Here are the top 10 best places to raise a family in Oakland County on the list:
1. Beverly Hills
- Average home value: $459,500
- Population: 10,550
Beverly Hills boasts high ranking schools and highly rated parks. The city earned an “A+” in the “public schools” and “good for families” categories from Niche and an “A” in the “housing” category.
2. Huntington Woods
- Average home value: $457,600
- Population: 6,365
In Huntington Woods, the public schools are highly rated and families have access to many parks. The city also houses a large section of the Detroit Zoo and the Rackham Golf Course.
3. Birmingham
- Average home value: $679,700
- Population: 21,738
More than 20 parks and excellent recreational facilities make Birmingham a wonderful choice for families. Birmingham has also been ranked among the most expensive places to live in the state.
4. Novi
- Average home value: $380,200
- Population: 65,870
Novi is located on picturesque Walled Lake. Families enjoy excellent public schools, housing, outdoor activities and jobs.
5. Troy
- Average home value: $375,600
- Population: 87,170
Most people own their homes in this dense suburb. The town offers plenty of restaurants, coffee shops and parks, making it an attractive place to live for many young professionals and growing families.
6. Bloomfield Charter Township
- Average home value: $542,400
- Population: 44,016
With excellent schools, parks and family activities, Bloomfield Charter Township is regarded as a great place to raise a family, earning an “A+” from Niche in the “good for families” category.
7. Rochester
- Average home value: $447,800
- Population: 12,978
Rochester’s picturesque surroundings offer families excellent access to parks and schools. Kids, and parents, too, have many options for healthy activities.
8. Franklin
- Average home value: $710,700
- Population: 2,653
While Franklin is home to many businesses, the town feels surprisingly rural. The city earned an “A+” in the “public schools” and “good for families” categories from Niche and a “B+” in the “housing” category.
9. Farmington
- Average home value: $262,400
- Population: 11,486
Farmington is a charming community located in southeastern Michigan, known for its historic downtown area and small-town feel. The city is part of the Farmington Public Schools district and offers a variety of community events, recreational opportunities and cultural experiences.
10. Oakland Charter Township
- Average home value: $528,900
- Population: 20,019
Oakland Charter Township boasts the distinction of being one of the oldest townships in Michigan. Currently the Township is served by three school districts: Rochester Community Schools, Lake Orion Community Schools and Romeo Community Schools.
Follow Metro Parent on Instagram.
