My analysis checks out the most expensive housing markets in Michigan.
Based on the Zillow Home Value Index, I’ve found a strong concentration of luxury properties around lakefront communities.
My data reveals a compelling mix of Lake Michigan coastal towns, northern Michigan vacation destinations, and affluent Detroit suburbs, with values ranging from $716,421 to over $1.6 million.
I found Leland leads the growth metrics with an exceptional 139.2% appreciation from 2015 to 2024, while Kewadin shows the strongest post-2020 performance with an 89.5% increase.
These figures highlight the premium placed on Michigan’s waterfront properties, with the most dramatic appreciation occurring in vacation and second-home markets, particularly along the Lake Michigan shoreline and in the northern regions.
10. Union Pier, Michigan
Opening our list of Michigan’s most exclusive markets, this charming Lake Michigan community has shown impressive momentum. Starting at $370,336 in 2015, values climbed to $464,663 by 2020, before reaching $716,421 in 2024. The 93.5% appreciation over nine years and 54.2% growth since 2020 demonstrate the rising appeal of Michigan’s southwestern shore among luxury buyers.
Example of a typical 2024 median-priced home in Union Pier
This charming 3-bedroom, 1.5-bath, 1,040 sq. ft. vintage cottage, listed at $699,000, is located in the heart of Union Pier, just two blocks from the beach. Updated with modern conveniences while maintaining its classic lake cottage charm, it sits on an oversized lot with a large yard, firepit, and space for future expansion. Close to Harbor Country’s shops, restaurants, and amenities, it offers a perfect getaway or investment opportunity, with proven rental success and optional 2025 reservations.
Where is Union Pier on the map?
Union Pier, MI 49129, is a small lakeside community in Southwest Michigan, located along the shores of Lake Michigan. Part of the Harbor Country region, it is known for its sandy beaches, charming cottages, and relaxed, vacation-oriented atmosphere. Situated about 70 miles from Chicago, Union Pier is a popular getaway destination for visitors seeking outdoor recreation, boutique shops, and fine dining.
9. Northport, Michigan
This picturesque Leelanau Peninsula destination has emerged as a luxury market powerhouse. From $381,716 in 2015, values rose to $476,457 by 2020, before reaching $747,742 in 2024. This impressive 95.9% nine-year growth and 56.9% post-2020 appreciation reflect the growing allure of northern Michigan’s coastal communities.
8. Harbert, Michigan
Nestled along Lake Michigan’s coveted shoreline, Harbert exemplifies the strong market dynamics of Michigan’s western coast. Beginning at $405,543 in 2015, prices increased to $482,779 by 2020, before climbing to $755,829 in 2024. An 86.4% nine-year appreciation and 56.6% gain since 2020 underscore the sustained demand for Lake Michigan properties.
Example of a typical 2024 median-priced home in Harbert
This 3-bedroom, 3-bathroom, 3,538 sq. ft. home is listed for $1,075,000 in Harbert offers a blend of sophistication and casual beach living, perched on a private dune for added seclusion. The home features three ensuite bedrooms, including a primary suite with a fireplace, private sundeck, and walk-in closet, as well as a spacious kitchen perfect for entertaining. Located in Springbrook Farm, it provides access to a deep sandy private beach, a 3-season screened porch, and generous outdoor living spaces, with furnishings available for purchase.
Where is Harbert on the map?
Harbert, MI 49115, is a charming lakeside community located in Berrien County along the shores of Lake Michigan. Part of the Harbor Country region, it is known for its tranquil beaches, art galleries, and a variety of fine dining and boutique shopping options. Situated approximately 75 miles from Chicago, Harbert is a popular destination for weekend getaways and vacation homes, offering a blend of natural beauty and cultural attractions.
7. Lakeside, Michigan
The transformation of this Lake Michigan community mirrors the broader luxury market trends along the western shore. From $412,513 in 2015, values rose to $512,992 by 2020, before reaching $786,565 in 2024. The robust 90.7% growth over nine years and 53.3% post-2020 appreciation highlight Lakeside’s strengthening position in Michigan’s luxury market.,
Example of a typical 2024 median-priced home in Lakeside
This 1925 Craftsman-style home, designed by Stanley Fairclough, is listed for $799,000 and offers a total of 6 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, and 2,266 sq. ft. including a spacious guesthouse. The main house features 4 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, large rooms with high ceilings, original trim, built-ins, a fireplace, and a charming 3-season porch. Situated on a large lot just two blocks from Lake Michigan’s Pier Street Beach, the property includes a guesthouse with 2 bedrooms, a bath, a screened porch, and a kitchenette, making it a perfect lakeside retreat.
Where is Lakeside on the map?
Lakeside, MI 49116, is a small, picturesque community in Southwest Michigan, located along the shores of Lake Michigan. Part of the Harbor Country region, it is known for its quiet beaches, charming cottages, and a relaxed, vacation-friendly atmosphere. Situated about 75 miles from Chicago, Lakeside is a popular destination for weekend getaways, offering proximity to wineries, art galleries, and outdoor recreation.
6. Kewadin, Michigan
Among Michigan’s most dynamic luxury markets, Kewadin has demonstrated extraordinary growth potential. Starting from $338,131 in 2015, values surged to $422,458 by 2020, before reaching $800,350 in 2024. This remarkable 136.7% nine-year appreciation and market-leading 89.5% post-2020 growth reveal the increasing premium placed on northern Michigan luxury properties.
Example of a typical 2024 median-priced home in Kewadin
This partially completed 3-bedroom, 3-bathroom, 2,587 sq. ft. home is listed for $685,000 offers stunning views of Torch Lake and the 16th hole of the Sundance Golf Course at A-Ga-Ming. Situated between Elk Rapids and Charlevoix, it provides access to award-winning Elk Rapids schools and boating on the Chain of Lakes. With resort property zoning permitting short-term rentals, completed mechanicals, and ongoing drywall work, this home is ready for your finishing touches and customization.
Where is Kewadin on the map?
Kewadin, MI 49648, is a small, scenic community in northern Michigan, located along the eastern shore of Torch Lake. Known for its natural beauty, it offers access to crystal-clear waters, outdoor recreation, and a peaceful rural atmosphere. Situated between Elk Rapids and Charlevoix, Kewadin is a popular area for boating, fishing, and vacation homes, attracting visitors year-round.
5. Franklin, Michigan
This historic Detroit suburb maintains its position as one of metropolitan Detroit’s most prestigious addresses. From $500,225 in 2015, values increased to $571,166 by 2020, before climbing to $804,834 in 2024. The steady 60.9% nine-year appreciation and 40.9% post-2020 growth reflect Franklin’s enduring appeal among luxury buyers.
Example of a typical 2024 median-priced home in Franklin
This new construction Colonial in the Franklin Commons Community is listed for $995,000 offers 3 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, and 2,521 sq. ft. of living space, with a 3-car garage. The open floor plan features a large great room with a fireplace, a gourmet island kitchen with granite countertops, and a breakfast nook, along with a library or formal dining room and first-floor laundry. The upper level includes a spacious primary suite with a huge walk-in closet and bath, plus a Jack and Jill bathroom connecting the second and third bedrooms, all with walk-in closets, with customization options still available.
Where is Franklin on the map?
Franklin, MI 48025, is a historic village located in Oakland County, Michigan, approximately 20 miles northwest of downtown Detroit. Renowned for its preserved 19th-century architecture and tree-lined streets, Franklin is a residential community with a tranquil and upscale atmosphere. Its proximity to major cities like Birmingham and Southfield provides residents with easy access to shopping, dining, and cultural amenities while maintaining a suburban charm.
4. Lake Leelanau, Michigan
This northern Michigan jewel demonstrates the premium placed on lakefront luxury properties. Beginning at $410,549 in 2015, values rose to $509,366 by 2020, before reaching $812,049 in 2024. The impressive 97.8% nine-year growth and 59.4% gain since 2020 highlight the growing demand for northern Michigan’s exclusive lake communities.
Example of a typical 2024 median-priced home in Lake Leelanau
The Wayfarer Treehouse, located in Leelanau, is a Nordic-inspired home is listed for $799,000 offering 3 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, and 1,200 sq. ft. of serene living space on a half-acre lot. Elevated above the surrounding woods, it features a main floor master suite with a luxurious soaking tub, an elegantly modern kitchen, and expansive windows that fill the bright white interior with natural light. Conveniently near Leland, Suttons Bay, and Lake Leelanau, the home is ideal as a retreat or investment, with amenities such as an EV charger and the option to be sold fully furnished.
Where is Lake Leelanau on the map?
Lake Leelanau, MI 49653, is a picturesque community in Leelanau County, Michigan, situated along the shores of the stunning Lake Leelanau. Known for its natural beauty, it offers access to pristine waters, rolling vineyards, and a variety of outdoor recreational activities such as boating, fishing, and hiking. Conveniently located near the charming towns of Suttons Bay, Leland, and Traverse City, Lake Leelanau combines a tranquil lakeside lifestyle with proximity to cultural and culinary attractions.
3. Orchard Lake, Michigan
This prestigious Oakland County enclave showcases the strength of Detroit’s luxury suburban market. Starting at $575,052 in 2015, prices increased to $618,795 by 2020, before climbing to $869,285 in 2024. The solid 51.2% nine-year appreciation and 40.5% post-2020 growth demonstrate the sustained demand for premium lakefront properties in the metropolitan area.
2. Leland, Michigan
Known as “Fish Town,” Leland has transformed into one of Michigan’s most coveted luxury markets. From $454,421 in 2015, values surged to $608,112 by 2020, before skyrocketing to $1,087,076 in 2024. This phenomenal 139.2% nine-year growth, including a remarkable 78.8% gain since 2020, marks Leland’s evolution into an elite coastal destination.
1. Lake Angelus, Michigan
Crowning Michigan’s luxury real estate market, Lake Angelus stands in a class of its own. From an already impressive $1,017,596 in 2015, values climbed to $1,141,986 by 2020, before reaching a commanding $1,664,008 in 2024. This 63.5% nine-year appreciation and 45.7% post-2020 growth reflect the enduring appeal of this exclusive lake community, which maintains its position as Michigan’s most expensive residential market.
Example of a typical 2024 median-priced home in Lake Angelus
This property, located on 2.5 acres along the pristine shores of Lake Angelus, is listed for $1,650,000 features a 4-bedroom, 3.1-bathroom ranch with 3,467 sq. ft. and a 3-car garage. Offering 166 feet of sandy lake frontage with a rock seawall, it provides stunning views and sunsets, making it ideal for building a new home up to 8,500 sq. ft. or remodeling the existing structure. Priced for land value, this rare opportunity is situated on the highly desirable Lake Angelus Shores Drive.
Where is Lake Angelus on the map?
Lake Angelus, MI, is an exclusive and serene community located in Oakland County, Michigan, approximately 40 miles north of Detroit. Centered around a pristine private lake, it is known for its luxury homes, expansive properties, and tranquil, nature-filled environment. With convenient access to nearby cities like Auburn Hills and Bloomfield Hills, Lake Angelus offers a secluded lifestyle while
