$196,410Average Value$154Average Price per Sq Ft82Homes For Sale
A 19th-century Michigan boomtown turned small college town
Thanks to its accessible location in southeastern Michigan — about 35 miles from Ann Arbor, Jackson and Toledo, Ohio — Adrian was a 19th-century railroad boomtown. At the outbreak of the Civil War, Adrian was Michigan’s third largest city, behind only Detroit and Grand Rapids. That statistic feels improbable today, as Adrian’s population of just under 21,000 residents gives it a quintessential small-town Midwestern feel.
The city’s well-preserved downtown of 19th-century brick buildings provides an everyday reminder of its past, while its modern economy is shaped largely from being the seat of Lenawee County’s government. Two small Christian colleges, Adrian College and Siena Heights University, also contribute significantly to the city’s culture and economy.
Adrian College has been lauded as a top Up-and-Coming College in the Midwest.
Siena Heights University is a private Catholic university founded in 1919.
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Historic downtown a shopping and dining hub for local region
“Adrian is the hub of the local region,” says Beth Boughton, a former resident who directed Adrian College’s color guard. “There's a lot of small towns around it, and everybody goes to Adrian for everything. They do their shopping and everything else there.” Grocery stores and national chains are prevalent on the southern edge of town, where U.S. Route 223 and Michigan Highway 52 (M-52) intersect.
More than two dozen locally owned businesses and restaurants anchor Downtown Adrian, also home to Croswell Opera House. The theater opened in 1866 and is the oldest one in Michigan. Today, the Croswell hosts musicals, plays and concerts throughout the year.
Adrian's downtown regularly hosts First Fridays events to promote local businesses.
Croswell Opera House in downtown Adrian is the oldest theater in Michigan.
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Two school districts and two colleges highlight area education
Siena Heights University and Adrian College are the third- and fourth-largest employers in the city, behind only the Lenawee County government and Gus Harrison Correctional Facility. Siena Heights, on the city’s east side, is a Catholic university with around 2,200 students operated by the Adrian Dominican Sisters. Adrian College, which is on the west side, is affiliated with the United Methodist Church and has just under 1,900 students enrolled.
Most students in Adrian attend Adrian Public Schools. The district, which has four elementary, one middle and one high school, earns a B-minus rating from Niche. Adrian High’s mascot, the Maples, reflects the tree-lined town’s nickname “The Maple City.” Students in the southeastern part of Adrian may attend the Madison School District, which also receives a B-minus rating. Madison Elementary, Madison Middle and Madison High are on the same campus in unincorporated Adrian. More than 500 kindergarten through 12th grade students also attend B-rated Lenawee Christian School.
Adrian High School's team is named 'The Maples' after the city.
Madison High School provides education to the residents in the neighborhood of Lenawee County.
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Downtown events add to city life
Monthly First Fridays, each with its own unique theme, encourage residents to come downtown and support local businesses and restaurants. The Adrian City Farmers Market offers a selection of local produce on Saturday mornings from May through October. May 17 is 517 Day, a civic celebration that reflects Lenawee County’s area code. The Lenawee County Fair, held in late July, is Adrian’s most attended annual event. The holiday spirit is also strong in this city that averages 26 inches of annual snowfall. The Comstock Christmas Riverwalk is a unique local tradition where residents decorate hundreds of Christmas trees at Comstock Park, which sits on the banks of the River Raisin near downtown. “People adopt a tree and usually dedicate it to loved ones,” Boughton says. “It’s very neat.”
Adrian's City Farmers Market happens every Saturday morning May through October.
Comstock Park is home to the annual Adrian Christmas Riverwalk Tree Lighting event.
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Median home price less than half the national median
The median home price in Adrian is $190,000, considerably lower than the national median price of around $406,000. It’s comparable to the median price in Jackson ($185,000), higher than the median price in Toledo ($124,000) and lower than the median price in Ann Arbor ($490,000).
Move-in-ready homes in the city date from the late 19th to the late 20th century and range between $90,000 and $385,000. New Traditional homes built on larger lots in unincorporated Adrian from the late 1990s to the present range from around $250,000 to more than $600,000.
The median price of homes in Adrian is considerably lower than most of the nation.
Many of the homes throughout Adrian are new traditional homes.
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Lake Adrian, Kiwanis Trail and 625 acres of parkland
Adrian has 18 city parks and access to the Kiwanis Trail, a 7-mile-long paved path running from downtown Adrian north to neighboring Tecumseh. Like many Michigan cities, a lake plays a large role in recreational life here – though unlike most of Michigan’s nearly 63,000 lakes, the 65-acre Lake Adrian is manmade.
Arrington Ice Arena, home to Adrian College’s NCAA Division III men’s and women’s ice hockey teams, also hosts youth hockey and learn-to-skate programs.
There are three public golf courses in Adrian: The Hills of Lenawee Golf Club, Wolf Creek Golf Club and Woodlawn Golf Club.
The 8-mile length of the Kiwanis Trail cuts through the center of Trestle Park in Adrian.
Adrian College’s NCAA Division III hockey team plays regularly at Arrington Ice Arena.
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U.S. Route 223, M-52 connect with rest of region
The city is the midpoint of U.S. 223, which runs between Toledo and Jackson. M-52, the primary north-south highway that also forms Adrian’s Main Street, stretches from the Ohio State Line north to Saginaw.
ProMedica Charles and Virginia Hickman Hospital is north of the city on M-52 near Tecumseh. Lenawee County Airport is strictly for general aviation. Residents looking to fly commercially can drive to Toledo Express Airport (35 miles) or Detroit Metropolitan Airport (50 miles).
Flood risk is low, but crime rate is higher than national average
Serious flooding is rare along the River Raisin. Fewer than 10% of properties in Adrian are considered at risk for minor flooding in the next 30 years.
Adrian’s violent crime rate nearly doubled the national and statewide rates in 2023. Property crime rates were slightly higher than the national and statewide rates.
Written By
Alex Hickey
Photography Contributed By
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On average, homes in Adrian, MI sell after 49 days on the market compared to the national average of 55 days. The median sale price for homes in Adrian, MI over the last 12 months is $215,000, up 5% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Welcome to 2787 Lenawee Hills, Adrian, MI! For the first time ever, this one-owner home is hitting the market, offering a rare opportunity to own a private retreat on 2 beautiful acres just one mile from the Adrian city limits. With approximately half of the property wooded, this unique setting provides the peaceful, secluded feel of being “up north” while keeping restaurants, shopping, and
Beautifully updated home in a sought-after neighborhood with so much already done for you! Recent updates include a newer roof, furnace, central air, siding, sump pump, a beautifully updated kitchen, new patio and much more. The unfinished basement offers tons of additional space and is just waiting for your finishing touches. Move right in and enjoy all the updates while still having room to
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Enjoy peaceful living on 10 beautiful acres! This 3 bedroom, 2 bath ranch offers modern country living in the Onsted School District. Enjoy peaceful surroundings, beautiful views, and plenty of room to spread out and create the lifestyle you've been dreaming of. The open, inviting interior features a spacious kitchen with walk-in pantry and a private primary suite with en suite bath. The walk out
Lesley DempseyHoward Hanna Real Estate Services-Adrian
Great quality home for sale in Hidden River South. This home built in 2007 features a drywalled interior, a nice corner lot, 3 bedrooms, 2 full baths, large kitchen, updated flooring and all appliances are included. Michigan Mobile Home Dealer License #1103726
Remodeled home for sale in Sterling Estates! This 1998 model was completely redone top to bottom in 2024 - check out the photos! Offering 3 bedrooms, 2 baths and everything new. Great location near the front of the community and a storage shed outside. Call today! Lot rent is currently $485. Michigan Mobile Home Dealer License #1103726
Welcome to 1708 Nicholas Lane in the beautiful Meadows Subdivision of Raisin Township. This stunning executive-style custom home was thoughtfully designed with elegance, sophistication, and entertaining in mind. From the moment you step into the impressive two-story foyer, you'll be welcomed by abundant natural light and timeless architectural details. The foyer is flanked by a formal living room
Nice home built in 2021 for sale in Hidden River North! Nice open floor plan, large kitchen with island, laundry room, 3 bedrooms and 2 full baths. Great shape and move-in ready! Michigan Mobile Home Dealer License #1103726
Welcome home to this beautifully updated 4-bedroom, 2.5-bath home nestled on a peaceful 1-acre lot with Adrian Township taxes. Designed for both everyday living and entertaining, this spacious home features a stunning updated kitchen, dining area is surrounded by windows, filling the home with natural light and offering picturesque views of the backyard. Step outside to the patio and take in the
Welcome home to 403 Finch Street, a timeless turn-of-the-century residence where historic craftsmanship and modern comfort come together beautifully. Built around 1900, this stately home showcases the quality and character that have stood the test of time. The inviting screened front porch welcomes you inside, where gorgeous hardwood floors, rich woodwork, soaring ceilings, and oversized windows
Nice move-in ready home for sale in Maple Woods Manufactured Home Community. This home features over 1600 sq. ft., 3 bedrooms, 2 full baths, 1 half bath, large rooms, living room plus additional family room with a wood-burning fireplace and a carport and shed outside. Michigan Mobile Home Dealer License #1103726
Welcome to 4753 Holloway Road, a beautiful home tucked away on a private drive in desirable Raisin Township. From the moment you arrive, the inviting front porch sets the tone for the warmth and comfort found throughout this home. Step inside and be greeted by gorgeous hardwood floors that flow through much of the main level. The open-concept floor plan is ideal for both everyday living and
Nicely updated home for sale in Hidden River North! This home offers 3 bedrooms, 2 full baths, nice open kitchen/living/dining area. New appliances, flooring and paint. Call today! Michigan Mobile Home Dealer License #1103726
Welcome to 4563 Kelsey Ave, an exceptional custom-built home tucked away on a quiet cul-de-sac in Adrian's prestigious Middlebrook Meadows. Offering over 3,400 square feet of beautifully designed living space, this elegant residence blends timeless architecture with modern comfort and is designed for both everyday living and unforgettable entertaining. Step inside to discover soaring ceilings,
Home for Sale in Hidden River North! This 1996 model has 3 bedrooms, 2 full baths, drywalled interior, double-pane windows, gas fireplace, carport, shed and a deck backing up to a wooded area. Base lot rent is $750 plus a $30 lot premium. Michigan Mobile Home Dealer License #1103726
Welcome to the Woodlawn Subdivision, where location and convenience come together. Just minutes from Downtown Adrian and Adrian College, this bi level ranch offers 3 bedrooms, 2 full baths including a primary suite, spacious living areas, a 2 car attached garage, and a large lot, all within the Adrian City School District. With a functional layout, generous living space, and a location that keeps
Affordable 3 bedroom 2 bathroom home available now in Hidden River South. This 1008 sq ft home is priced at 24900. Close in August and receive 2 months with no base site rent. Great opportunity to own at an affordable price in a welcoming community. Contact us today for details or to schedule a tour.
Welcome to Woodbury Estates! You may choose from a variety of spacious living spaces designed to meet your every need. Woodbury offers one & two bedroom apartments homes featuring oversized living rooms, dining areas, European-style kitchens, walk-in closets, washer/dryer hook-ups and a large bathroom with a spacious linen closet! 24 hour Emergency Maintenance! Call or Visit today
Stratford Place apartment community caters to people 55+ who are looking for all of the comforts of home, without all of the upkeep. Here at Stratford we are dedicated to providing affordable housing in the beautiful, well maintained setting of Adrian, Michigan. We offer spacious 1 & 2 bedroom apartments, with locked entrances, indoor mailboxes and lovely community areas. For the retirement time
Property Id: 2773927 Bradford Trail Apartments opening November 15th at 1221 Corporate Dr offers brand new 2-bedroom, 2-bathroom homes starting at $1,350.00/mo. Every unit comes fully equipped with a refrigerator, washer, dryer, and more for modern, move-in-ready comfort. Step outside and enjoy 26 acres of private, forested estate, along with the historic Bradford Pond stocked and ready for
Property Id: 2773926 Bradford Trail Apartments opening November 15th at 1221 Corporate Dr offers brand new 2-bedroom, 2-bathroom homes starting at $1,350.00/mo. Every unit comes fully equipped with a refrigerator, washer, dryer, and more for modern, move-in-ready comfort. Step outside and enjoy 26 acres of private, forested estate, along with the historic Bradford Pond stocked and ready for
Property Id: 2773928 Bradford Trail Apartments opening November 15th at 1221 Corporate Dr offers brand new 2-bedroom, 2-bathroom homes starting at $1,350.00/mo. Every unit comes fully equipped with a refrigerator, washer, dryer, and more for modern, move-in-ready comfort. Step outside and enjoy 26 acres of private, forested estate, along with the historic Bradford Pond stocked and ready for
Property Id: 2773929 Bradford Trail Apartments opening November 15th at 1221 Corporate Dr offers brand new 2-bedroom, 2-bathroom homes starting at $1,350.00/mo. Every unit comes fully equipped with a refrigerator, washer, dryer, and more for modern, move-in-ready comfort. Step outside and enjoy 26 acres of private, forested estate, along with the historic Bradford Pond stocked and ready for
Property Id: 2771965 Bradford Trail Apartments opening November 15th at 1221 Corporate Dr offers brand new 2-bedroom, 2-bathroom homes starting at $1,350.00/mo. Every unit comes fully equipped with a refrigerator, washer, dryer, and more for modern, move-in-ready comfort. Step outside and enjoy 26 acres of private, forested estate, along with the historic Bradford Pond stocked and ready for
Property Id: 2773924 Bradford Trail Apartments opening November 15th at 1221 Corporate Dr offers brand new 2-bedroom, 2-bathroom homes starting at $1,350.00/mo. Every unit comes fully equipped with a refrigerator, washer, dryer, and more for modern, move-in-ready comfort. Step outside and enjoy 26 acres of private, forested estate, along with the historic Bradford Pond stocked and ready for
Property Id: 2771966 Bradford Trail Apartments opening November 15th at 1221 Corporate Dr offers brand new 2-bedroom, 2-bathroom homes starting at $1,350.00/mo. Every unit comes fully equipped with a refrigerator, washer, dryer, and more for modern, move-in-ready comfort. Step outside and enjoy 26 acres of private, forested estate, along with the historic Bradford Pond stocked and ready for
Property Id: 2773925 Bradford Trail Apartments opening November 15th at 1221 Corporate Dr offers brand new 2-bedroom, 2-bathroom homes starting at $1,350.00/mo. Every unit comes fully equipped with a refrigerator, washer, dryer, and more for modern, move-in-ready comfort. Step outside and enjoy 26 acres of private, forested estate, along with the historic Bradford Pond stocked and ready for
Property Id: 2596137 Welcome to Shannon’s Chateau in Adrian, MI. We offer premium, fully furnished, month-to-month room rental tailored for traveling professionals,nurses & students seeking a pristine, quiet, and well-maintained living environment. Please note that resident dogs are on site. Suite #1: $850 per month. Private room with walls and a solid door.Shared kitchenette &
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