I’ve analyzed data from the Zillow Home Value Index to uncover Michigan’s hidden real estate gems. The numbers tell a fascinating story of which neighborhoods have become the state’s most valuable property markets as of February 2025.
Ann Arbor dominates the list with 16 of the top 25 neighborhoods, showcasing the university town’s incredible appeal to high-income residents. Meanwhile, waterfront communities like Grand Beach and Michiana have seen explosive growth, with some neighborhoods experiencing over 70% appreciation in just five years.
What I found most intriguing is the dramatic disparity between the top and bottom of the list—the most valuable neighborhood (Barton Hills) is worth more than double some others in the top 25. Nearly all these elite neighborhoods have outpaced inflation by substantial margins, making them standout investment vehicles during the past 15 years.
25. Lansdowne
- 2025 Home Value: $583,272
- 2020 Home Value: $440,459
- 2015 Home Value: $323,548
- 2010 Home Value: $235,586
- % Change (2010–2025): 147.6%
- % Change (2015–2025): 80.3%
- % Change (2020–2025): 32.4%
Investors who bought into Lansdowne in 2010 have seen their property values nearly 2.5x, representing a compound annual growth rate of approximately 6.3% over 15 years. The acceleration has been particularly notable since 2020, with the $142,813 value increase translating to roughly $28,500 per year. Located in Ann Arbor’s desirable southwest sector, Lansdowne offers proximity to shopping centers and the University of Michigan’s medical campus while maintaining a residential character.
24. North Campus
- 2025 Home Value: $584,674
- 2020 Home Value: $490,004
- 2015 Home Value: N/A
- 2010 Home Value: N/A
- % Change (2010–2025): N/A
- % Change (2015–2025): N/A
- % Change (2020–2025): 19.3%
North Campus has demonstrated moderate but steady growth with a $94,670 increase over five years, yielding approximately $18,934 annually for property owners. The relatively modest appreciation rate suggests this area may represent a value opportunity within Ann Arbor’s premium market. Situated adjacent to the University of Michigan’s engineering campus, this neighborhood attracts faculty, researchers, and tech professionals seeking proximity to innovation centers while enjoying wooded lots and architectural diversity.
23. Traver
- 2025 Home Value: $593,599
- 2020 Home Value: $422,350
- 2015 Home Value: $336,264
- 2010 Home Value: $251,625
- % Change (2010–2025): 135.9%
- % Change (2015–2025): 76.5%
- % Change (2020–2025): 40.5%
Traver’s impressive 40.5% five-year growth rate places it among Michigan’s fastest-appreciating neighborhoods, with homeowners gaining approximately $171,249 in equity since 2010. The neighborhood has maintained consistent value expansion across both strong and weak market cycles, suggesting fundamental appeal regardless of broader trends. Nestled in northeast Ann Arbor along Traver Creek, this community combines natural beauty with easy access to North Campus and downtown, attracting buyers seeking both lifestyle and investment potential.
22. South Central
- 2025 Home Value: $611,323
- 2020 Home Value: $412,022
- 2015 Home Value: $312,113
- 2010 Home Value: $215,199
- % Change (2010–2025): 184.1%
- % Change (2015–2025): 95.9%
- % Change (2020–2025): 48.4%
South Central stands as a financial powerhouse in Michigan real estate, nearly tripling in value over 15 years with a remarkable $396,124 appreciation from 2010 baselines. The neighborhood has actually accelerated its growth rate in recent years, with the 2020-2025 period showing almost 10% annual returns. Located in Ann Arbor’s most walkable district between downtown and the stadium, South Central offers extraordinary convenience value with historic homes that continue drawing premium buyers despite already-high valuations.
21. Hunters Ridge
- 2025 Home Value: $632,261
- 2020 Home Value: N/A
- 2015 Home Value: N/A
- 2010 Home Value: N/A
- % Change (2010–2025): N/A
- % Change (2015–2025): N/A
- % Change (2020–2025): N/A
Hunters Ridge has emerged as a relatively new entrant among Michigan’s elite neighborhoods, with insufficient historical data to track long-term performance but a current valuation firmly placing it in the upper echelon of the state’s real estate market. The current benchmark of $632,261 represents significant stored wealth for homeowners in this exclusive enclave. Located in Saline just minutes from Ann Arbor, Hunters Ridge offers estate-sized properties with custom homes that attract executives and professionals seeking luxury with a small-town atmosphere.
20. Briar Hill
- 2025 Home Value: $638,002
- 2020 Home Value: N/A
- 2015 Home Value: N/A
- 2010 Home Value: N/A
- % Change (2010–2025): N/A
- % Change (2015–2025): N/A
- % Change (2020–2025): N/A
Briar Hill represents significant wealth creation for its residents despite limited historical tracking data, with current valuations exceeding $638,000 placing it solidly within Michigan’s top-tier real estate markets. The neighborhood’s emergence in the premium segment suggests strong appeal to affluent buyers seeking established credentials. Situated in northwest Ann Arbor near the Huron River, Briar Hill features executive homes on generous lots with mature landscaping, offering privacy and prestige while remaining just minutes from downtown and major employers.
19. Lohr Lake Village
- 2025 Home Value: $648,756
- 2020 Home Value: N/A
- 2015 Home Value: N/A
- 2010 Home Value: N/A
- % Change (2010–2025): N/A
- % Change (2015–2025): N/A
- % Change (2020–2025): N/A
Lohr Lake Village has established itself as a premium housing market with current valuations approaching $650,000, representing substantial equity for homeowners despite incomplete historical data tracking. The neighborhood’s positioning in Michigan’s top 20 most valuable markets indicates strong demand fundamentals and buyer appeal. Centered around a picturesque lake in southwest Ann Arbor, this community combines waterfront living with convenient access to shopping districts and major transportation corridors, creating a lifestyle-investment proposition that continues attracting upper-income households.
18. Glacier Highlands
- 2025 Home Value: $650,525
- 2020 Home Value: $493,348
- 2015 Home Value: $385,521
- 2010 Home Value: $277,850
- % Change (2010–2025): 134.1%
- % Change (2015–2025): 68.7%
- % Change (2020–2025): 31.9%
Glacier Highlands has delivered exceptional financial performance with properties more than doubling in value since 2010, representing $372,675 in wealth creation for long-term homeowners. The neighborhood’s consistent appreciation across different market cycles suggests enduring appeal regardless of broader economic conditions. Located in northeast Ann Arbor adjacent to Huron High School, Glacier Highlands features well-maintained mid-century homes on spacious lots with mature trees, offering established character with proximity to research facilities and natural areas.
17. Centennial Farms
- 2025 Home Value: $657,094
- 2020 Home Value: N/A
- 2015 Home Value: N/A
- 2010 Home Value: N/A
- % Change (2010–2025): N/A
- % Change (2015–2025): N/A
- % Change (2020–2025): N/A
Centennial Farms has emerged as a wealth builder for homeowners, with current valuations exceeding $657,000 indicating premium positioning within Michigan’s real estate hierarchy despite limited historical data for trend analysis. The neighborhood’s appearance among the state’s most valuable communities suggests strong market fundamentals and buyer demand. Located in southwest Ann Arbor with architectural designs reflecting farm heritage themes, Centennial Farms offers upscale homes on generously sized lots with community amenities that attract professionals seeking both lifestyle benefits and investment potential.
16. Lake Forest
- 2025 Home Value: $669,415
- 2020 Home Value: $503,732
- 2015 Home Value: $443,457
- 2010 Home Value: $327,137
- % Change (2010–2025): 104.6%
- % Change (2015–2025): 51.0%
- % Change (2020–2025): 32.9%
Lake Forest has doubled homeowner equity over 15 years with a remarkable $342,278 appreciation since 2010, representing consistent annual returns exceeding 5% during periods of both economic expansion and contraction. Recent acceleration with nearly 33% growth in just five years demonstrates continued market strength despite already-high valuations. Nestled among mature trees in northeast Ann Arbor, Lake Forest features executive-level homes with architectural distinction on larger lots, providing an upscale woodland setting minutes from downtown and the University of Michigan’s medical complex.
15. The Waterways
- 2025 Home Value: $683,373
- 2020 Home Value: N/A
- 2015 Home Value: N/A
- 2010 Home Value: N/A
- % Change (2010–2025): N/A
- % Change (2015–2025): N/A
- % Change (2020–2025): N/A
The Waterways has secured its position among Michigan’s most valuable neighborhoods with current valuations approaching $685,000, representing significant wealth accumulation for homeowners despite insufficient historical tracking data. The neighborhood’s premium positioning indicates strong fundamentals and buyer appeal within the luxury segment. Located along the Huron River in Ann Arbor with direct water access, this community offers distinctive homes featuring premium water views and recreational opportunities, creating a lifestyle-investment proposition that continues attracting affluent buyers seeking both natural beauty and financial appreciation.
14. Stonebridge
- 2025 Home Value: $696,790
- 2020 Home Value: $531,298
- 2015 Home Value: $464,868
- 2010 Home Value: $328,029
- % Change (2010–2025): 112.4%
- % Change (2015–2025): 49.9%
- % Change (2020–2025): 31.1%
Stonebridge has more than doubled investor capital over 15 years with an impressive $368,761 value increase, translating to approximately $24,584 annual appreciation for homeowners. The growth trajectory has remained remarkably consistent across different market conditions, with the 31.1% five-year increase suggesting continued momentum despite high baseline values. Located in southwest Ann Arbor adjacent to the award-winning Stonebridge Golf Club, this planned community features luxury homes situated around fairways and natural areas, creating a resort-like atmosphere that continues attracting executive buyers.
13. Burns Park
- 2025 Home Value: $709,835
- 2020 Home Value: $547,385
- 2015 Home Value: $426,830
- 2010 Home Value: $315,002
- % Change (2010–2025): 125.3%
- % Change (2015–2025): 66.3%
- % Change (2020–2025): 29.7%
Burns Park has generated extraordinary wealth for homeowners with a $394,833 appreciation since 2010, representing more than 125% return on investment over 15 years. The consistent upward trajectory across different economic cycles underscores the neighborhood’s enduring appeal regardless of broader market conditions. Situated between downtown Ann Arbor and the University of Michigan central campus, Burns Park features historic homes on tree-lined streets with exceptional walkability to cultural attractions, creating a blend of lifestyle benefits and investment security that justifies premium valuations.
12. Cherry Hill Estates
- 2025 Home Value: $710,730
- 2020 Home Value: $458,171
- 2015 Home Value: $350,594
- 2010 Home Value: N/A
- % Change (2010–2025): N/A
- % Change (2015–2025): 102.7%
- % Change (2020–2025): 55.1%
Cherry Hill Estates has demonstrated exceptional financial performance with values doubling in just ten years, representing a dramatic $360,136 wealth increase for homeowners since 2015. The acceleration has been particularly remarkable in recent years, with a stunning 55.1% growth in just five years—outpacing most investment vehicles during the same period. Located in Dearborn’s most prestigious district, Cherry Hill Estates features distinctive luxury homes on expansive lots, attracting affluent professionals from the automotive industry and nearby medical centers seeking both lifestyle amenities and strong appreciation potential.
11. Newport
- 2025 Home Value: $714,276
- 2020 Home Value: $552,092
- 2015 Home Value: $476,314
- 2010 Home Value: $355,164
- % Change (2010–2025): 101.1%
- % Change (2015–2025): 50.0%
- % Change (2020–2025): 29.4%
Newport has doubled in value since 2010, creating approximately $359,112 in homeowner equity and representing a compound annual growth rate exceeding 5% across economic cycles. The consistent appreciation profile with nearly 30% growth in the past five years indicates sustained demand despite already-premium valuations. Situated in northwest Ann Arbor with proximity to the Huron River and nature areas, Newport features executive homes with architectural distinction, attracting professionals seeking both natural surroundings and convenient access to the university’s North Campus research facilities.
10. North Central
- 2025 Home Value: $741,926
- 2020 Home Value: $560,285
- 2015 Home Value: $340,635
- 2010 Home Value: $253,217
- % Change (2010–2025): 193.0%
- % Change (2015–2025): 117.8%
- % Change (2020–2025): 32.4%
North Central has emerged as Michigan’s highest-performing neighborhood in percentage terms, nearly tripling in value with an extraordinary $488,709 appreciation since 2010. The explosive growth accelerated dramatically between 2015-2020 with over 64% gains in just five years, followed by continued strong performance despite high baseline values. Located in the heart of Ann Arbor adjacent to Kerrytown and the medical campus, North Central features a mix of historic homes and modern infill projects, attracting buyers seeking both character and proximity to employment centers.
9. Michiana
- 2025 Home Value: $743,574
- 2020 Home Value: $477,814
- 2015 Home Value: $477,954
- 2010 Home Value: N/A
- % Change (2010–2025): N/A
- % Change (2015–2025): 55.6%
- % Change (2020–2025): 55.6%
Michiana demonstrates extraordinary recent growth momentum with a remarkable 55.6% value increase in just five years, representing approximately $265,760 in new equity for homeowners since 2020. The identical ten-year and five-year appreciation rates suggest stagnation from 2015-2020 followed by explosive acceleration during the pandemic and post-pandemic periods. Located along Lake Michigan at the Michigan-Indiana border near New Buffalo, Michiana offers beachfront and lake-view properties that have become increasingly sought after by Chicago-area buyers seeking second homes with rental income potential.
8. Golfcrest
- 2025 Home Value: $811,830
- 2020 Home Value: $555,841
- 2015 Home Value: $390,397
- 2010 Home Value: N/A
- % Change (2010–2025): N/A
- % Change (2015–2025): 107.9%
- % Change (2020–2025): 46.1%
Golfcrest has delivered exceptional returns with values more than doubling in a decade, creating $421,433 in homeowner wealth since 2015. The acceleration has been particularly dramatic in recent years with a 46.1% surge since 2020, representing nearly $51,200 in annual appreciation despite already-high valuations. Located in Dearborn’s prestigious west end adjacent to TPC Michigan golf course, Golfcrest features distinctive luxury homes that attract automotive executives and professionals seeking both lifestyle amenities and investment performance in a community known for architectural distinction.
7. Centennial Park
- 2025 Home Value: $826,891
- 2020 Home Value: $628,168
- 2015 Home Value: N/A
- 2010 Home Value: N/A
- % Change (2010–2025): N/A
- % Change (2015–2025): N/A
- % Change (2020–2025): 31.6%
Centennial Park has demonstrated strong financial performance with a $198,723 value increase over just five years, representing annual appreciation of approximately $39,745 for homeowners. The 31.6% five-year growth rate outpaces many traditional investment vehicles despite operating from an already-high baseline value. Located in northeast Ann Arbor with convenient access to the university’s North Campus, Centennial Park features luxury homes with contemporary designs on generously-sized lots, attracting professionals from the technology and medical sectors seeking both modern amenities and investment security.
6. Thistle Down Farms
- 2025 Home Value: $827,612
- 2020 Home Value: N/A
- 2015 Home Value: N/A
- 2010 Home Value: N/A
- % Change (2010–2025): N/A
- % Change (2015–2025): N/A
- % Change (2020–2025): N/A
Thistle Down Farms has secured its position among Michigan’s ultra-premium real estate markets with current valuations exceeding $827,000, representing significant stored wealth for homeowners despite insufficient historical data for trend analysis. The neighborhood’s presence in the state’s top six most valuable communities speaks to its exceptional market positioning and buyer appeal. Located in Saline just minutes from Ann Arbor, Thistle Down Farms features custom estate homes on expansive lots with countryside views, creating an exclusive enclave that attracts executives and professionals seeking both privacy and proximity to metropolitan amenities.
5. Bader
- 2025 Home Value: $905,927
- 2020 Home Value: $682,144
- 2015 Home Value: $568,935
- 2010 Home Value: $436,545
- % Change (2010–2025): 107.5%
- % Change (2015–2025): 59.2%
- % Change (2020–2025): 32.8%
Bader has more than doubled homeowner investment since 2010, generating $469,382 in appreciation over 15 years and maintaining consistent growth across diverse market conditions. The 32.8% surge in just five years represents approximately $44,757 in annual value creation despite an already-high baseline exceeding $682,000 in 2020. Located in northeast Ann Arbor adjacent to Huron High School, Bader features prestigious homes on larger lots with mature landscaping, attracting established professionals and university administrators seeking both neighborhood stability and strong financial performance from their real estate investments.
4. Grand Beach
- 2025 Home Value: $1,010,923
- 2020 Home Value: $579,174
- 2015 Home Value: $564,857
- 2010 Home Value: N/A
- % Change (2010–2025): N/A
- % Change (2015–2025): 79.0%
- % Change (2020–2025): 74.5%
Grand Beach has demonstrated extraordinary recent acceleration with a remarkable 74.5% value increase in just five years, representing approximately $431,749 in new equity for homeowners since 2020. The nearly identical ten-year appreciation rate indicates minimal growth from 2015-2020 followed by explosive post-pandemic performance that catapulted values beyond the million-dollar threshold. Located along Lake Michigan near the Michigan-Indiana border, Grand Beach offers premium beachfront properties that have become increasingly sought after by Chicago-area executives seeking luxury second homes with investment potential within weekend-commuting distance of the Windy City.
3. Ives Woods
- 2025 Home Value: $1,011,912
- 2020 Home Value: $728,337
- 2015 Home Value: $626,988
- 2010 Home Value: $482,932
- % Change (2010–2025): 109.5%
- % Change (2015–2025): 61.4%
- % Change (2020–2025): 38.9%
Ives Woods has more than doubled investor capital since 2010, generating $528,980 in homeowner equity over 15 years and consistently outperforming broader market indices. The impressive 38.9% five-year growth rate represents approximately $56,715 in annual appreciation despite already-premium valuations, with values now exceeding the million-dollar mark. Situated in northeast Ann Arbor with mature trees and winding streets, Ives Woods features distinctive custom homes on larger lots, providing an established, prestigious setting that continues attracting university executives, successful physicians, and technology entrepreneurs seeking both lifestyle amenities and investment security.
2. Geddes Arboretum
- 2025 Home Value: $1,115,534
- 2020 Home Value: $849,630
- 2015 Home Value: $762,652
- 2010 Home Value: $594,301
- % Change (2010–2025): 87.7%
- % Change (2015–2025): 46.3%
- % Change (2020–2025): 31.3%
Geddes Arboretum has delivered exceptional financial performance with $521,233 in appreciation since 2010, representing 87.7% return on investment despite starting from an already-premium valuation nearing $600,000. The consistent growth trajectory across different market cycles demonstrates the neighborhood’s resilience and enduring appeal to affluent buyers. Located in southeast Ann Arbor along the Huron River, Geddes Arboretum features estate-caliber properties on expansive lots with preserved natural features, creating an exclusive enclave that attracts university administrators, successful business owners, and medical specialists seeking both natural beauty and blue-chip investment characteristics.
1. Barton Hills
- 2025 Home Value: $1,354,336
- 2020 Home Value: $948,924
- 2015 Home Value: N/A
- 2010 Home Value: N/A
- % Change (2010–2025): N/A
- % Change (2015–2025): N/A
- % Change (2020–2025): 42.7%
Barton Hills stands as Michigan’s most valuable residential market with an extraordinary 42.7% appreciation in just five years, generating $405,412 in homeowner equity since 2020—equivalent to approximately $81,082 annually despite already commanding premium values approaching $950,000. The neighborhood’s unchallenged position atop Michigan’s real estate hierarchy reflects its exceptional market fundamentals and buyer appeal. Nestled alongside the Huron River within its own village municipality inside Ann Arbor, Barton Hills features estate properties on secluded, wooded lots with membership rights to the exclusive Barton Hills Country Club, attracting the region’s most successful executives, entrepreneurs, and professionals seeking both ultimate prestige and investment performance.
