Rochester Hills has blossomed from a small railroad town to a charming Detroit suburb. Initially inhabited by the Potawatomi, the area was first settled in 1817 and later organized as Avon Township in 1835. It ultimately became Rochester Hills in 1984. Innovative by nature is the city’s motto, and its innovation through natural transformation categorizes the path Rochester Hills follows. While it’s often merged with its neighbor to the east, Rochester, Rochester Hills offers a more suburban lifestyle and slower pace. With about 76,000 residents spread across 33 square miles, it’s a mid-sized city with a small-town feel.
“It has all the conveniences, jobs and schools as a major city, but the warmth, character and charm of a smaller community that makes you feel like a family,” says Debbie Corey, a Realtor with Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Kee Realty and former Rochester Hills resident. “It’s the kind of area where, if you move there and you don't have family, you’re going to feel like family.”
Rochester Hills is home to the famous Yates Cider Mill.
Rochester Hills is known for its stock of medium to large sized homes.
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Open-air shopping at The Village in downtown Rochester
Shopping and dining options in this city are concentrated on South Rochester Road. Hampton Village Center is a vast open-air mall with a variety of small and large merchants. The mall is also home to several events, including annual visits from the Easter Bunny.
The Village of Rochester Hills is known as the city's “unofficial downtown”. Situated on Adams Road and Hampton Boulevard, the open-air mall features seven buildings separated by narrow streets and paved sidewalks. It's home to a slew of merchants, from luxury brands to grocery stores. Corey says that while Rochester Hills has its own downtown area, many residents wind up visiting downtown Rochester.
“You really don't have to leave the city for anything, but because [Rochester and Rochester Hills] have such a strong relationship, they almost feel like one—even though they're separate cities,” she says.
Downtown Rochester is also nearby and is home to a slew of mom-and-pop shops. Between Thanksgiving and the new year, downtown Rochester glimmers with over a million Christmas lights in an event known as the Big, Bright Light Show. Thousands of people visit from across Metro Detroit, and merchants stay open later to account for the foot traffic.
Rochester Hills has a vibrant downtown with multiple locally owned shops.
Browse for an assortment of home furnishings in downtown Rochester.
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Year-round outdoor recreation and Michigan’s’ first non-motorized trail
As an Oakland County city, greenspaces are bountiful within Rochester Hills. It’s home to 16 parks and trail systems in total. Borden Park is a catch-all sports complex that stretches a whopping 143 acres. It offers over 30 courts and fields, allowing visitors to play sports such as baseball, soccer, pickleball and more. In addition, the park has two roller hockey rinks, three fitness loops and a vast multipurpose field. Borden also features 30 acres of wooded wetlands and nature preserves.
Spencer Park covers 113 acres of land. The 38-acre Carter Lake sits on its east side and is home to the Spencer Park Pond Hockey Classic. The annual 3-on-3 tournament is held whenever the lake adequately freezes over. During warmer months, the lake is used for swimming and fishing from Memorial Day to Labor Day. The city’s rail-to-trail projects convert unused railroad tracks into walking trails. Paint Creek Trail was the first to receive this upgrade and became Michigan’s first non-motorized trail in the process. The nearly 9-mile linear park features picnic tables, the Clinton River and an area for cross-country skiing.
Yates Park in Rochester Hills is an excellent place to view nature.
Borden Park in Rochester Hills features several new pickle ball courts.
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Highly rated public schools and Oakland University
Served by the A-plus-rated Rochester Community School District, students in Rochester Hills have their pick of 13 elementary schools, four middle schools and three high schools. Rochester Adams has an A-plus and counts several notable graduates, including New York Rangers captain Jacob Trouba, Olympic gold medalist Swimmer Peter Vanderkay and entertainment icon Madonna.
Since 2021, the city’s Art on Auburn community project has exhibited select K-12 student artwork along Auburn Road. Done in partnership with the Paint Creek Center for the Arts, the winning pieces are painted right on the street — all within the same giant circles of the same size — and exude themes such as unity, community, belonging, coexistence and growth.
Oakland University has a B rating on Niche and ranks as the 7th best public university in Michigan. It specializes in engineering, business, healthcare and IT.
Aerial view of Rochester Public Schools Reuther Middle School in Brookland Park.
The Brookland Park neighborhood is home to Rochester Public Schools Reuther Middle School.
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New housing for a moving market
“As far as houses, there’s something for everyone,” Corey says. “No matter what stage of life you're in, you can find something in Rochester Hills.”
Rochester Hills has over 15 neighborhoods, each offering distinct living spaces. The city’s average single-family home price is about $465,500, but homes range from $150,000 townhouses in Woodgrove to million-dollar mansions in Clear Creek. Houses tend to spend about 25 days on the market and sell for above asking price. For comparison, the US average is 44 days.
Most homes in this city are established, single-family options. They were generally built between 1950 and 1980 and sit on mid-sized lots with stretching, established trees out front. Extra yard space is the standard, along with cul-de-sacs and winding roads.
In January 2024, Mayor Bryan K. Barnett shared an update on the city’s five-year master plan. In it, he discussed the need for building new homes. Construction has already begun, with prices starting upwards of $350,000 and climbing to $800,000.
Contemporary homes in Rochester Hills offer plenty of room for growing families.
Smaller ranch style homes in Rochester Hills are ideal for first time homebuyers.
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Interstates, airports and employers
South Rochester Road is the main thoroughfare that runs through Rochester Hills. It connects to Michigan Highway 59, or M-59, which then connects to Interstates 75 and 96. The Detroit Metropolitan Airport is 45 miles southwest of Rochester Hills. Residents don’t have to commute 28 miles into Detroit for work. Major employers include Rochester Community Schools, Oakland University, Rochester Hospital, formally known as Ascension Providence Hospital, and manufacturing plants, such as Webasto.
Lower-than-average crime rates
Rochester Hills has an exceptionally low crime rate compared to the state and national averages. Where the Michigan average for violent crime is 4.61 per 1,000 residents, Rochester Hills is 0.78. With property crime, the city’s rate is 6.9 versus the state average of 15.37.
The chances of becoming a victim of violent crime in Rochester Hills are 1 in 1,287 compared to 1 in 217 in the state, while the chances of being a victim of property crime in the city are 1 in 145 compared to 1 in 65 in the state.
Typical southeast Michigan weather patterns
Rochester Hills experiences all four seasons the same as other Southwest Michigan cities. Temperatures start to drop below 50 in November, and light snowfall follows. Snowfall is heaviest in January and February, as the city gets around 5 inches each month. The weather begins to warm up around May. Summer highs are generally around 83 degrees but can sometimes peak upwards of 90.
Pink Coneflower blooms on a bright August day in Rochester Hills.
Enjoy fishing from the docks at Thelma G. Spencer Park in Rochester Hills.
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Written By
Kaitlin Davis
Photography Contributed By
Owen Kaufman
Video By
Francisco de la Vera
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
Sotero Lopez II,
an experienced agent in this area.
GreatSchools:
The GreatSchools Rating helps parents compare schools within a state based on a variety of school quality indicators and provides a helpful picture of how effectively each school serves all of its students. Ratings are on a scale of 1 (below average) to 10 (above average) and can include test scores, college readiness, academic progress, advanced courses, equity, discipline and attendance data. We also advise parents to visit schools, consider other information on school performance and programs, and consider family needs as part of the school selection process.
View GreatSchools Rating Methodology
On average, homes in Rochester Hills, MI sell after 29 days on the market compared to the national average of 56 days. The median sale price for homes in Rochester Hills, MI over the last 12 months is $457,450, up 5% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Welcome to this beautifully maintained 4-bedroom, 2.5-bath colonial in the highly sought-after Willowood Subdivision, located within the award-winning Rochester Community School District. Combining timeless style, generous living space, and an unbeatable location, this home is perfect for today's lifestyle.The updated kitchen features granite countertops, stainless steel appliances, hardwood
Custom built contemporary home in Rochester Hills featuring high-end finishes and modern design throughout. An impressive 8-foot entry door welcomes you into the open floor plan highlighted by oversized porcelain tile flooring, designer lighting, and a dramatic floor-to-ceiling tiled fireplace with floating mantle. The chef’s kitchen offers quartz countertops, custom white cabinetry by Lafata,
Welcome to 1021 Olympia Dr, a beautiful 5-bedroom, 4-bath brick colonial located in Rochester’s sought-after Thornridge Subdivision. This home offers impressive curb appeal with a brick and stone elevation, manicured landscaping, and a spacious 3-car side-entry garage. Inside, you’ll find a grand foyer with marble floors, formal living and dining rooms, recessed lighting, and a private office
Welcome home to this meticulously maintained all brick Ranch in highly sought after Bridgewood Farms. Offering over 2300 SQ FT. This spacious home features 3 bedrooms, 3.5 baths, and an open floor plan designed for comfortable living and entertaining. Professional master landscaped gardens provide beautiful curb appeal and a serene outdoor setting. Generous room sizes, abundant storage. The lower
Experience unparalleled country style living at this stunning 5600 sq ft, estate nestled on a private wooded lot with creek frontage backing to the Sanctuary of Rochester Hills in the prestigious gated community of Walnut Brook Estates. Enjoy breath taking views year around as wildlife wonders through the serene landscape perfectly framed by great room dramatic wall of windows. Designed with a
Welcome to this beautifully maintained 4-bedroom, 2.5-bath colonial in the highly sought-after Willowood Subdivision, located within the award-winning Rochester Community School District. Combining timeless style, generous living space, and an unbeatable location, this home is perfect for today's lifestyle.The updated kitchen features granite countertops, stainless steel appliances, hardwood
Custom built contemporary home in Rochester Hills featuring high-end finishes and modern design throughout. An impressive 8-foot entry door welcomes you into the open floor plan highlighted by oversized porcelain tile flooring, designer lighting, and a dramatic floor-to-ceiling tiled fireplace with floating mantle. The chef’s kitchen offers quartz countertops, custom white cabinetry by Lafata,
PRICE IMPROVEMENT! OPEN HOUSE SUNDAY Jun 14th 11AM-12:30PM! Beautifully renovated and thoughtfully designed, this exceptional 4-bedroom, 3.5-bath residence blends modern elegance with everyday comfort. The open-concept floor plan is highlighted by a stunning great room featuring soaring vaulted ceilings, a cozy fireplace, and a stylish wet bar—perfect for both relaxing and entertaining. The home
Welcome home to this custom-built split level in the gated Walnut Brook Estates community. This home was meticulously maintained with roof, deck and mechanicals recently updated. Features include a bright, open & airy floor plan. 4 bedrooms & 3.1 baths. 2-story foyer leading to the great rm with walls of glass. Gourmet kitchen with generous walk-in pantry open to the enormous 2 story family rm.
Welcome to this beautifully maintained, move-in-ready townhome in the highly desirable Trailway Commons community of Auburn Hills. Built in 2021, this spacious 3-bedroom, 2.5-bath home offers 1,791 square feet of modern living space with stylish finishes and an open-concept design perfect for today’s lifestyle. The bright and inviting main level features luxury vinyl plank flooring throughout and
Location, Location, Location!! Welcome to this beautifully maintained home in Troy's desirable Maple Forest neighborhood, offering an open and spacious floorplan filled with natural light throughout. A dramatic two-story foyer, soaring living room ceilings, and an elegant-curved staircase create a stunning first impression. The impressive two-story family room with a cozy fireplace serves as the
WELCOME TO 1658 HILLSIDE LANE – ROCHESTER HILLS Located just minutes from downtown Rochester, this well-maintained 3-bedroom, 2.5-bath home offers a comfortable and functional floor plan. Features include a formal living room, dining room, cozy family room with a fireplace, and a spacious kitchen with a breakfast nook and snack bar. The two-story foyer creates a welcoming entrance, while the
Spin your housing dreams into an amazing reality. This spectacular lot is secluded in location, (Rochester Hills!), unmatched in dimensions, (.69 acre!), pastoral in character, & ready for the future to unfold. booming area close to parks, shopping, & more. Cash only. Make Home Here.
Enjoy carefree condo living in this light-filled, beautifully designed 2-bedroom, 2-bath home featuring an ideal split-bedroom floor plan that offers privacy for both owners and guests. The spacious great room is the heart of the home, showcasing soaring vaulted ceilings, a stunning boxed bay window that fills the space with natural light, and a cozy gas fireplace accented by a classic brick
Tucked away in one of Rochester Hills' most desirable and scenic pockets, this beautiful two-story condo offers the perfect blend of maintenance-free living and an active, vibrant lifestyle. From the moment you step inside, rich hardwood flooring flows seamlessly through an inviting, light-filled layout designed for both relaxing and entertaining. Upstairs, the private primary suite serves as a
Charm, location & convenience meet in this beautiful, open-concept Cape Cod style home in highly desirable Rochester Hills, ready for immediate occupancy. Offering just under 2K SQFT of thoughtfully designed living space, this residence features 3 BR, 3.5 BA, and unparalleled storage options throughout. The bright & expansive main level boasts soaring vaulted ceilings & a large LR anchored by a
A home at Timberlea Village offers more than just the utmost in modern design and convenient living. Our location brings a world of recreation, entertainment, shopping and cultural activities to your doorstep. At Timberlea Village, you're within five minutes of several shopping centers, not to mention the charming shops in and around Rochester. You'll find a host of public and private clubs and
For Lease! This beautifully renovated, two-story half duplex is move-in ready! Enjoy the convenience of your own washer and dryer, a kitchen with ample counterspace and a cozy dining area. Located just moments away from a variety of shops and restaurants, this home offers both comfort and unbeatable convenience. No Pets. 1 Year minimum lease, 2 year preferred. 1.5 month security deposit. 600
Northridge Apartments provides premium comfort and convenience in a peaceful location away from the city buzz. Our apartments are in Rochester Hills, MI, offering apartment and townhome-style layouts and an excellent collection of indoor and outdoor amenities. Enjoy a satisfying lifestyle—swim in the pool, play basketball or tennis, or go for a bike ride around the community. When you're home,
Executive Rental Opportunity in the Heart of Rochester Hills! Situated on a private half-acre lot, this beautifully updated home offers over 4,000 square feet of living space, including a finished walkout lower level. The entire home has been freshly painted inside and out and features brand-new flooring throughout, along with new window treatments and updated fixtures. The open floor plan is
Welcome home to Oaks at Hampton Apartments in Rochester Hills, Michigan. With easy access to Interstate 75 and Michigan 59, commuting to your favorite restaurants, shopping, and all the excitement will be a breeze. Close in proximity to public parks and walking or biking trails for you to enjoy nature. We provide our residents with a lifestyle of convenience.
Nice and clean ranch home with recent updates on a huge corner lot with privacy fence and an ideal location near Rochester Hills new downtown and within minutes to m59 access. This home has plenty of parking and an ideal layout which is perfect for easy living. The home includes all appliances and even has a brand new A/C unit. Be sure to check this one out before it is gone.
ONE MONTH FREE when you apply within 48 hours of your initial tour and move in by 8/15/26, PLUS AN ADDITIONAL $1000 OFF on select 3-bedrooms! Call for details!
Welcome Business Owners! Excellent Opportunity for your Clinic...Turn Key Medical Office...7 Private Exam Rooms...Reception Room...Waiting Room...Private Bathrooms...Fully Updated...Many Possible Uses...Spacious Floor Plan...Ample Parking...Highly Desirable Area...NNN costs $1,200 per month...Schedule Your Showing Today!
Welcome home to Rochester Club Apartments, where comfort, style, and community come together in the heart of Rochester Hills, Michigan. Our modernized one- and two-bedroom apartments will give you a fresh start and an elevated living experience. Surrounded by lush trees and scenic parks in the Avon Hills neighborhood, our pet-friendly community offers a peaceful retreat while keeping you close to
Apartments and Townhomes in Rochester Hills, MIFind your perfect home at CiderMill Village, a top choice for apartments in Rochester Hills, MI. Picture residing in a soothing atmosphere, nestled in our park-inspired landscape featuring well-crafted apartments and townhomes. These living spaces are meticulously designed with thoughtful amenities curated just for you.CiderMill Village, a crown
Andover Woods of Rochester Hills is a luxury rental community that is sure to delight you in unexpected ways with its exceedingly spacious living accommodations. Professionally designed with chic and high quality finishes, we have masterfully engineered our floor plans to allow for up to four (4) bedrooms (including a first floor primary suite) and a truly open concept so that you can work, live
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