The Barton Hills subdivision stands apart from Ann Arbor — not only for its vast yards and luxurious homes — but it's also a completely separate village. With a population of only a few hundred people, living in Barton Hills has a sense of distinction and prestige. In fact, the same architects behind New York's Central Park created the neighborhood's layout. And that design has stayed mostly true today, meaning acres of land still sit undeveloped between homes. Properties are often held for generations, so seeing one on the market is rare. "Barton Hills homes are really spectacular," says Joe Schmidt, an experienced Realtor with Keller Williams. "And they're all unique styles, not what you would see in most subdivisions." Those styles include midcentury modern, Colonial-revival, and cutting-edge modern construction. Each architectural work of art is situated on several acres of land, tucked back on personal driveways, with added privacy thanks to dense canopies of mature trees. Prices here usually start around $1 million and can get up to $3 million for homes with water views. Property taxes also tend to be slightly lower in the Village of Barton Hills than in Ann Arbor City. "Barton Hills has beautiful, natural views," explains Darryn Brundage-Forrest, a Realtor with More Group Michigan. "So outdoor lovers seek out living here." Residents have easy access to Barton Pond, which prohibits motorized vehicles from being on the water since the pond is a source of 85% of Ann Arbor's drinking water. The Barton Boat Club takes advantage of the high-speed winds that whip across the pond by hosting regular sailing races during the warmer months. They also have boat storage available. On the other side of the pond, Barton Nature Area spans nearly 100 acres and is used for hiking and fishing. It connects with the Birds Hill Nature area, the city's largest outdoor getaway, but the nearby freeway noise sometimes interrupts the peaceful and bird-filled woods. The Barton Hills Country Club has been a vital part of the community for as long as the Village of Barton Hills has existed. It is the only business in the neighborhood, and today, about half of the neighborhood residents have a membership there. The Club boasts an 18-hole course with a classic Donald Ross design, a pool complex with a bar and a ballroom for formal events. Tennis programs, junior club programming and a full social calendar are just a few additional amenities club members can look forward to. Neighborhood kids are part of Ann Arbor Public Schools, even though Barton Hills sits outside city limits. The youngest students are zoned to start at Wines Elementary, which gets an A-plus grade from the website Niche. Then it's on to Forsythe Middle, rated A, and Skyline High, rated A-plus and known for its college preparatory programs. Rudolph Steiner School of Ann Arbor is also just across the water, an alternative private school option for kindergarten through twelfth grade. Outside of the fine dining at Barton Hills Country Club, residents can head to Kerrytown and downtown Ann Arbor for a dinner out, about a 3-mile drive. This bustling corridor is full of local businesses, eclectic eateries, and a seasonal farmers market. And the University of Michigan brings more vibrancy to the area with theater productions and well-attended football games at the Big House. The University of Michigan Hospital is also close by for those who work there. Unlike most of Ann Arbor, Barton Hills is relatively secluded from road noise. But, residents still have easy access to State Route 14, though it's often backed up with traffic during rush hour. Route 14 connects to Detroit, 40 miles away, but Barton Hills residents must connect with I-94 to get to the Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport. Learn more on the Barton Hills city guide.