While Highland Park is technically its own city, it embodies Detroit’s nickname of Motor City. Ford Motor Company built a production plant in Highland Park in 1907, laying the foundation for the community to become a burgeoning metropolis throughout the 1900s. After the decline of the automobile industry, the city is now home to a resilient community rebuilding after years of decline. “I was born and raised in Detroit, and I’ve been coming to Highland Park since I was five or six years old,” says Roshonda Hayes, Executive Director of the local nonprofit A Village Detroit. “They had beautiful, big houses when I was growing up, but they’ve faced financial hardship over the years. Many people frown upon that, but they don’t truly know Highland Park.” Located less than 10 miles north of Downtown Detroit, the city is looking to the future with the help of local organizations and city officials. “Most folks that live and work there are lifelong residents, and rebuilding the community will give everyone that sense of pride back like they used to have.”
Highland Park is sometimes known as Model T town.
The original Model T factory is in Highland Park on Woodward Avenue.
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Historic districts with classic single-family homes
Traditional single-family homes in Highland Park date back to the early 1900s, with many being built during the area’s Ford-inspired boom. Craftsman-style bungalows, Colonial Revivals and American Foursquares sit side-by-side on modest lots, with many embracing their original woodwork and hardwood floors. The city is home to two neighborhoods on the National Register of Historic Places: Medbury Grove and the Highland Heights-Stevens’ Subdivision. Prices range from about $35,000 to $200,000 depending on the condition of the home. “Folks are coming in to buy and renovate the properties that are abandoned,” Hayes says.
American Four-Squares and brick Tudors are a great place to care for a family in Highland Park.
Large colorful Bungalows hold a place of pride in Highland Park.
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Proximity to Downtown Detroit
Residents in Highland Park are less than 10 miles north of Downtown Detroit and enjoy quick access to three major expressways: Route 10, Route 8 and Interstate 75. The Suburban Mobility Authority for Regional Transportation – SMART – provides local bus service to the community, with several routes making stops in the area. Bus stops along Woodward Avenue provide indoor seating areas and service to Downtown and beyond.
Aerial View of Neighborhood Homes in Highland Park.
The 4 Woodward bus line runs through Highland Park.
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Low enrollment in Highland Park’s school district
The School District of the City of Highland Park serves the community with two public charter schools for grades K-8: Barber Preparatory Academy and George Washington Carver Academy. Both schools earned a D-minus from Niche, and Barber Preparatory Academy offers free after-school programs and tutoring to students. The district’s last high school closed in 2015 due to low enrollment, and teens must commute to nearby high schools in the Detroit Public Schools Community School District. “I don’t know if it's still in the talks of getting another high school in Highland Park, but so many residents went to that high school and it would be a big thing for the community,” Hayes says.
Robert E Barber School strives to foster a safe environment for its Highland Park students.
Highland Park students can attend Central Collegiate Academy.
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Restaurants and supermarkets along Woodward Avenue
Woodward Avenue cuts through the middle of Highland Park and provides access to a collection of shops and restaurants. Residents can run errands at Aldi, Glory Supermarket and Dollar Tree. Cakes and Shakes is known for its homemade desserts and deli sandwiches, while locals gather at Woodward Bistro for classic bar food, drinks and daily brunch specials. Corned beef is a signature in Detroit, and residents can get their fix at locally owned spots like Mr. Corned Beef and Asian Corned Beef.
Highland Park residents know that Congregation is open daily.
You can pick up groceries at several Highland Park markets including Glory Super Market.
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Renovating the city's parks
Seven small green spaces are scattered throughout Highland Park. While many have been left neglected, nonprofits like A Village Detroit are working to upgrade the city's parks. “We adopted Casey/Barone Park because all of the residents and children need a place to get out and about,” Hayes says. “The weeds were as tall as I was, but volunteers helped us clean up the park and install new exercise equipment. Everyone was excited to see that.” The newly renovated park also includes a basketball court and playscape for kids to explore. Residents can also gather at the Ernest T. Ford Recreation Center, which has an indoor basketball court and meeting spaces for the community.
Highland Park residents enjoy a pickup game of basketball.
A family plays in front of the Imhotep STEAM Lab in Highland Park.
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Nonprofits hold community events
Several local nonprofits hold events for residents in Highland Park, including A Village Detroit. “One of our biggest projects is the Second Sundays Seniors Social and Luncheon,” Hayes says. “It began during the pandemic when I saw so many seniors were isolated and living alone, so I wanted to have a free lunch and social for the seniors every month.”
The Homework House is a strong community based organization in Highland Park.
There is a home schooling space within the Homework House in Highland Park.
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Future plans and crime trends for Highland Park
In late 2022, local nonprofit Manna Development Corp. announced a $10 billion revitalization plan for Highland Park. The budget includes plans to resolve the city’s water debt, invest in education and build a mixed-use development called Uptown Highland Park. Although the population of Highland Park is just under 9,000, the city experiences higher-than-average crime rates compared to other communities nationwide.
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On average, homes in Highland Park, MI sell after 66 days on the market compared to the national average of 55 days. The median sale price for homes in Highland Park, MI over the last 12 months is $72,000, up 14% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Opportunity meets location in the heart of Detroit’s Woodward Corridor. A move-in-ready home perfectly positioned between Downtown Detroit energy and the charm of neighboring Ferndale and Royal Oak. Whether you work in the city, love local culture, or want quick access to everything without paying premium suburb prices, this address delivers. Inside, you will find thoughtful updates that blend
Welcome to this 4 bedroom colonial in the revitalized community of Highland Park. From the moment you enter, the home makes a statement. The grand fireplace commands attention, wrapped floor to ceiling in luxe matte black porcelain tile that transforms the chimney wall into a dramatic design centerpiece. It’s not just a fireplace, it’s an architectural moment. The kitchen unfolds in an open
THIS PROPERTY HAS BEEN APPRAISED FOR $315,000. WE CAN EMAIL YOU THE REPORTWelcome to 120 Woodland – a fully remodeled gem in the heart of Detroit!This spacious 3-level home offers nearly 2,200 sq ft of beautifully updated living space, featuring 5 large bedrooms, 2.5 bathrooms, and a thoughtfully designed layout perfect for growing families or anyone seeking room to thrive. Step inside
Unlock the potential in this solid Detroit property located right on the edge of Ferndale and Royal Oak, offering rare proximity to three major lifestyle corridors—Downtown Detroit, Downtown Ferndale, and Downtown Royal Oak. Whether you’re an investor seeking your next rehab project or an owner-occupant planning to use an FHA 203k renovation loan, this home delivers outstanding upside in a
Discover the inviting home awaiting you at 225 Rhode Island ST, Highland Park, MI. This single-family residence is ready to move in. Spacious living room featuring rich hardwood floors and a fireplace that complements the elegant molding, creating a space that is both inviting and refined. The formal dining area flows seamlessly into the kitchen that presents a delightful culinary space. The
THIS HOME IS UNIQUE COMPLETLY UPDATED 4 BEDROOM 2 BATH HOME IN EXTREMLY GOOD CONDITION . i HOME YOU WILL FULL RIGHT AWAY IS INVESTMENT HOME WHERE SELLERS RESTRUCTURED THE HOME TO MAKE THIS HOME IDEAL FOR A FAMILY TO LIVE IN
INVESTOR SPECIAL! As-Is. This is a great renovation project in one of the best neighborhoods in Highland Park. Just two blocks from Woodward and minutes away from Midtown. This home has amazing potential!
It’s in the name! Woodward x Penrose: Future Elegance in Motion. Vacant residential lot in Detroit-Highland Park Penrose section. Positioned just off Woodward Avenue with strong regional connectivity to Downtown Detroit, Ferndale, Royal Oak, and major employment corridors. Ideal for builders seeking an affordable infill project, investors assembling parcels in a strategic corridor, or buyers
Investment opportunity near 1-75 and 7 Mile in Highland Park. Frame bungalow with hardwood floors, bathroom with original tile. Detached garage. Full basement. Some rehab needed. Buyer to pay $495 processing fee to listing broker.
Well-positioned corner lot for sale on the heavily-trafficked Woodward Avenue. This 10,019-square-foot lot is situated in the middle of a dense retail stretch in Highland Park. Located In close proximity to I-75, Palmer Park, Detroit Golf Club, and just a 10-minute drive from Downtown Detroit. This lot is commercially zoned with an extensive list of available uses including retail, office, and
This 3-bedroom, 1.5-bath colonial with 1,224 square feet is an incredible opportunity! Needs a full rehab, this property offers significant potential with neighbrhood comps averaging $50,000 and top values reaching $98,000. Don't wait-schedule your showing today and turn this property into your next sucess story! The accurancy of all information, regardless of the souce, is not guarenteed or
Solid 3-bedroom, 1-bath Bungalow located near high-demand areas. Tenant-occupied with top-of-market Section 8 rent and recent cosmetic improvements already completed. Ideal for an investor looking for a cash flowing rental opportunity. CoCROI over 16% year one with rental rate of $1,500/month. Sold with tenants in place and tenants are planning to stay. ***No Showings until a full accepted offer
Manchester Apartments in Highland Park, Michigan, offers comfortable living in a vibrant, centrally located community. These thoughtfully designed apartments are close to shopping, dining, and just minutes from downtown Detroit, ensuring convenience at every turn. Residents enjoy spacious floor plans, modern amenities, and prompt on-site management dedicated to exceptional service. Whether you’re
Cozy third-floor studio apartment available for lease in Detroit. This unit offers a comfortable and efficient layout with plenty of natural light and a welcoming living space. Conveniently located near major roads, shopping, dining, and local amenities. Ideal for tenants seeking a simple and convenient place to call home.Schedule your showing today!
Labelle is a towering oasis in downtown Highland Park located in the midst of a resurgence going on with a new fire department and redevelopment of the area with new business opening up.It was completed in 1973 and this 10 story high rise has 212 units which are broken down into one bedrooms and studios apartments. Each floor has their own laundry facility. Age qualification is 55 plus but
Recently updated duplex for rent. New laminate flooring in kitchen and new kitchen cabinets. Dishwasher and microwave included. Refurbished/refinished hardwood in living room, dining room and bedrooms. Plenty of windows letting in natural light. New exterior and interior doors, including storm doors. Bedrooms have ceiling fans. Living Room has natural fireplace. Share basement with other unit.
Hardwood floor apartments available as one-bedrooms. We also have studios available. Centrally located and situated off Woodward, close to downtown, mid-town, Wayne State, and the Cass-corridors. Tenants must have proof of income and identification. We are a pet friendly environment. Section 8 is accepted . To set up an appointment to view our units, please call us.
Recently updated duplex for rent, upper unit. New laminate flooring in kitchen and new kitchen cabinets. Dishwasher and microwave included. Refurbished/refinished hardwood in living room, dining room and bedrooms. Plenty of windows letting in natural light. New exterior and interior doors, including storm doors. Bedrooms have ceiling fans. Share basement with other unit. 220 hookup for stove.
Built in 1928, Florentine West Apartments offer spacious living at an affordable price with four floors and 27 units Living at Florentine West will also offer: - Cable ready units - Nearby public transportation
Welcome to this beautifully renovated 3 bedrooms and 1 full bath home, perfect for families, couples or individuals seeking a spacious yet comfortable rental. Located in a friendly neighborhood, this property features a layout that will make you feel right at home. Conveniently located close to highways, grocery stores and shopping. This is a must see. Agent owns property.
Get your fresh START here! This super clean single-family is an inviting home, ready to welcome its new occupants. Imagine evenings spent in the living room, the dancing flames of the fireplace casting a warm glow on the walls as you unwind from the day. The kitchen presents a culinary haven, complete with a stylish backsplash that complements the elegant stone countertops and shaker cabinets.
Welcome to 1953 Brighton, a newly renovated 3-bedroom, 1.5 bath home in Detroit that offers a blend of comfort, space and thoughtful updates. The property sits on a generous footprint with two additional lots, giving you plenty of outdoor room for gardening, recreation or simply enjoying extra green space. All three lots will be fenced by end of week (12/7) Inside, the home features refreshed
Elizabeth Tintinalli@properties Christie's Int'l R.E. Detroit
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