The Complete Guide to Living in Livonia, Michigan: Neighborhoods, Schools & Lifestyle 2026
I spent three years working in Livonia Public Schools, and what struck me most wasn't just the quality of education—it was the sense of community that runs through every neighborhood, every park, every local business. Livonia isn't just a place people live. It's where families put down roots that last generations.
If you're considering a move to Metro Detroit and want the perfect balance of suburban comfort with easy access to everything the region offers, Livonia deserves a serious look. Here's everything you need to know before making your decision to look at homes for sale in Livonia, MI.
Livonia at a Glance
Livonia sits in the northwestern corner of Wayne County, spanning roughly 36 square miles between Haggerty Road on the west and Inkster Road on the east, and from Joy Road down to Eight Mile Road. With nearly 100,000 residents, it's one of Southeast Michigan's largest and most established suburbs.
Median home price: $299,000–$310,000 (as of January 2026)
Average days on market: 51 days
Income needed to afford median home: Approximately $65,000/year (with 20% down)
School district ranking: Top 20% in Michigan (86th of 613 districts)
The Best Neighborhoods in Livonia
Livonia offers a diverse range of neighborhoods, from historic districts with century-old character to newer developments with modern amenities. Here are some of the best neighborhoods in Livonia that are standouts:
Old Rosedale Gardens (Historic District)
This is Livonia's crown jewel—and one of only a handful of National Register Historic Districts in the area. Platted in the 1920s by the Shelden Land Company (the same developers behind Detroit's beloved Rosedale Park), this neighborhood features tree-lined streets, English cottage-style homes, and Colonials with genuine architectural character.
What sets Old Rosedale Gardens apart is the community itself. The neighborhood association hosts Easter egg hunts, garage sales, garden walks, Christmas home tours, Halloween parades, a 5K run, and an Independence Day parade and picnic. These aren't token events—they're traditions that families pass down through generations.
Best for: Buyers who value historic character, walkability, and tight-knit community
Price range: $250,000–$400,000
Coventry Gardens
Consistently ranked as one of Livonia's safest neighborhoods, Coventry Gardens offers well-maintained mid-century homes on generous lots. You'll find a mix of brick ranches and colonials here, many updated with modern kitchens and open floor plans while retaining their original charm.
Best for: Families prioritizing safety and established neighborhood feel
Deer Creek & Newburgh Heights
If you want more square footage and newer construction, these subdivisions deliver. Deer Creek features spacious colonials from the 1980s and 1990s, many with four bedrooms, family rooms with fireplaces, and finished basements. Newburgh Heights offers similar appeal with slightly larger lots.
Best for: Growing families who need 2,000+ square feet
Price range: $350,000–$550,000
Country Homes Subdivision
Don't let the name fool you—this isn't rural living. But Country Homes does offer charming ranches with character details like hardwood floors, original built-ins, and fenced yards. It's an excellent entry point for first-time buyers who want Livonia schools without stretching their budget.
Best for: First-time buyers, downsizers, or anyone seeking value
Price range: $200,000–$300,000
Livonia Public Schools: An Insider's Perspective
Having worked inside Livonia Public Schools, I can tell you the statistics only tell part of the story. Yes, LPS ranks in the top 20% of Michigan school districts. Yes, math and reading proficiency scores run 10+ percentage points above state averages. But what impressed me most was the culture.
The district serves approximately 13,400 students across 24 schools with a 92% graduation rate. In 2021, voters approved a $185 million bond to renovate facilities across the district—a clear sign of community investment in education.
Elementary Schools to Know
Webster Elementary: Ranked #1 out of 1,488 Michigan elementary schools with 5-star ratings and proficiency rates above 90% in both reading and math
Hoover Elementary: Another 5-star school, ranked in the top 101 elementary schools statewide
Buchanan Elementary: 5-star rated with strong parent involvement
High Schools
Stevenson High School: Ranked 86th in Michigan with a 95% graduation rate and robust AP course offerings
Churchill High School: Ranked 115th in the state with strong college prep programs
Franklin High School: Ranked 209th with excellent vocational and technical education options
For higher education, Schoolcraft College sits right in Livonia, offering associate degrees, certificate programs, and transfer pathways to four-year universities.
Things to Do in Livonia
Parks & Recreation
Kirksey Recreation Center: This isn't your average community center. Think water slides, a two-story jungle gym, rock climbing walls, fitness classes for all ages, and outdoor pools in summer. Monthly memberships and day passes available.
Rotary Park: An all-inclusive park funded in part by local Rotary clubs, featuring accessible playground equipment so every child can play. Sports fields, walking trails (half-mile, one-mile, and two-mile loops), and regular community events.
Hines Park Trail: This 17.5-mile trail runs through Livonia and connects to the larger Hines Park system. Perfect for biking, running, or a morning walk with views of rivers, wetlands, and woodlands.
Newburgh & Nankin Lakes: Two scenic lakes in the southern part of the city offering fishing, kayaking, and peaceful waterfront views.
History & Culture
Greenmead Historical Park: Step back to the 1820s at this preserved homestead featuring restored homes, schoolhouses, and barns from Michigan's pioneer era. Throughout the year, Greenmead hosts reenactments, craft fairs, and educational programs. The park also offers unique experiences like owl-inspired painting nights and seasonal story times.
Roush Automotive Collection: A hidden gem for car enthusiasts, featuring one of the finest private automotive collections in Michigan with connections to Ford and NASCAR history.
Dining & Shopping
Laurel Park Place: An upscale shopping destination anchored by Von Maur, with restaurants like California Pizza Kitchen and Bar Louie.
Haraz Coffee House: For something different, try this Yemeni-style coffee house near the shopping districts—perfect for a quick stop or meeting up with friends.
HopCat Livonia: Over 45 craft beers, solid pub food, and a great atmosphere for watching games or unwinding after work.
Community Events
Livonia Spree Festival: The annual summer celebration featuring carnival rides, live entertainment, parades, and fireworks. It's the event that brings the whole community together.
100 Days to Health: A community-wide wellness program running through winter and spring with fitness classes, nutrition seminars, and family activities at the Recreation Center.
Neighborhood Pool Clubs: There are many pool clubs throughout Livonia. Some are private and have a wait list and some are public to those that live in the neighborhood. Definitely ask your Realtor if this is an amenity in the neighborhoods you are looking at.
Location & Commute
One of Livonia's biggest advantages is its central location with easy freeway access. I-96, I-275, and M-14 all run through or near the city, making commutes manageable whether you're heading to Detroit, Ann Arbor, or anywhere in between.
To Downtown Detroit: 25–35 minutes via I-96
To Ann Arbor: 25–30 minutes via M-14
To Detroit Metro Airport: 20–25 minutes via I-275
For healthcare, St. Mary Mercy Hospital is right in Livonia, offering full-service medical care close to home.
How Does Livonia Compare?
vs. Plymouth: Plymouth offers a walkable downtown and higher price points. Livonia gives you more house for your money with similarly strong schools.
vs. Northville: Northville skews luxury with a charming downtown. Livonia provides broader price range options and larger lots in many neighborhoods.
vs. Novi: Novi has newer construction and the Twelve Oaks Mall corridor. Livonia offers more established neighborhoods with mature trees and character.
vs. Canton: Canton trends younger with more subdivisions. Livonia offers more architectural variety and a longer community history.
Is Livonia Right for You?
Livonia works beautifully for families who want excellent schools, safe neighborhoods, and genuine community—without the premium price tags of neighboring cities like Northville or Plymouth. It's ideal if you value established neighborhoods with mature trees over brand-new construction, and if you want a suburb that still feels connected to the broader Metro Detroit region.
Livonia Michigan real estate ranges from starter homes in the low $200s to updated colonials and ranches in the $400s and beyond, so there's room to grow without leaving the community.
And from personal experience—the people here genuinely look out for each other. That's not something you can put a price tag on.
Frequently Asked Questions About Living in Livonia
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Yes. Livonia consistently ranks as one of Metro Detroit's safest and most family-friendly suburbs, with top 20% schools, affordable home prices, and strong community involvement.
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As of January 2026, the median home price in Livonia is approximately $299,000–$310,000, making it more affordable than neighboring Plymouth or Northville.
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Livonia Public Schools ranks 86th out of 613 districts in Michigan, placing it in the top 20% statewide. The district has a 92% graduation rate and several 5-star elementary schools.
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Top neighborhoods include Old Rosedale Gardens (historic district), Coventry Gardens (safety), Deer Creek and Newburgh Heights (larger homes), and Country Homes (value for first-time buyers).
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Livonia is about 25–35 minutes from downtown Detroit via I-96, and 20–25 minutes from Detroit Metro Airport via I-275.
Ready to Explore Livonia?
I'd love to show you around. Whether you're relocating to Metro Detroit, moving up from your starter home, or just curious about what's available, let's connect. I'll give you the inside perspective that only comes from someone who's spent real time in these schools and neighborhoods.
Allison Maher | Five Star Real Estate Leaders
