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
Teresa Beaumont,
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 30 days on the market compared to the national average of 55 days. The median sale price for homes in Rochester Hills, MI over the last 12 months is $465,000, up 7% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
This is a custom built and designed home by the builder who currently lives in the home. This is also ADA compliant and State licensed for a 6 person Group Home option but is not currently being used as a group home nor has it been since it was built in 2022. This beautiful home offers many custom and special features throughout. The kitchen is a great gathering place and open to the great room.
Don't miss this opportunity to own a beautifully renovated condo in a prime location just steps from the Clinton River Trail and within walking distance of downtown Rochester! This move-in-ready home features 2 bedrooms, 1.5 bathrooms, and approximately 1,250 square feet of living space, plus an unfinished basement and an attached garage. The updated kitchen boasts luxury vinyl plank flooring,
Rare opportunity to own a well-maintained end-unit condo on a quiet, private drive in Rochester Hills. This home offers a comfortable living space, plenty of closet space plus a partially finished basement for additional living, recreation, storage, or office space.The moment you walk through the front door you will see the spacious open living room with a cozy gas fireplace that flows into
Welcome to 698 Tennyson in desirable Rochester Hills! This beautiful 3-bedroom, 2.5-bath condo offers a comfortable and inviting layout with plenty of space to enjoy. The finished basement provides additional living space. An attached garage adds everyday convenience, while the spacious deck overlooks a peaceful green area, creating a private and relaxing setting for morning coffee or
Welcome to 3016 Charlwood Drive a spacious, beautifully maintained home set on almost a half acre lot in Rochester Hills’ highly desirable Thornridge subdivision. Inside, timeless oak details bring warmth and character throughout the home, including oak-trimmed windows and oak cabinetry in the kitchen and bathrooms. The bright, inviting interior has been refreshed with new carpeting upstairs,
Nestled in the quiet, scenic backdrop of the Oakwood Park community, this ranch condo delivers the ultimate in peaceful, low-maintenance living. Step inside to an inviting single-level layout anchored by a bright kitchen complete with brand-new countertops, a new sink, and a new garbage disposal (2026). The open living space leads to a private rear balcony overlooking a serene, wooded setting
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,
This is a custom built and designed home by the builder who currently lives in the home. This is also ADA compliant and State licensed for a 6 person Group Home option but is not currently being used as a group home nor has it been since it was built in 2022. This beautiful home offers many custom and special features throughout. The kitchen is a great gathering place and open to the great room.
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 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
Don't miss this opportunity to own a beautifully renovated condo in a prime location just steps from the Clinton River Trail and within walking distance of downtown Rochester! This move-in-ready home features 2 bedrooms, 1.5 bathrooms, and approximately 1,250 square feet of living space, plus an unfinished basement and an attached garage. The updated kitchen boasts luxury vinyl plank flooring,
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
WWelcome to Trailway Commons. This move-in ready three-bed, two-and-a-half-bath townhome offers 1,791 square feet of modern, low-maintenance living in a convenient Auburn Hills location. Built in 2021, the home features an open concept layout with luxury vinyl plank flooring throughout the first and second floors. The bright main level flows seamlessly from the living area into the kitchen and
Welcome to one of the best locations in Meadowfield! This beautifully updated **end-unit ranch condo** is tucked at the end of a quiet dead-end street, offering an exceptionally private setting surrounded by expansive green space. Inside, the light-filled floor plan features 2 bedrooms, 2.5 baths and more than 2,200 square feet of finished living space including the finished lower level. The
Stunning home in North Rochester Hills, for rent and remodeled from top to bottom in 2026 awaits your family. The home features New Kitchen, Flooring, Electrical, Appliances, Quartz Counter Tops, Bathrooms, Driveway, Epoxy Floors in the garage, that ever-important fenced yard. The driveway offers easy access and can hold more than nine cars. It also includes a new roof, new gutters, LED recessed
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
Probably one of the best waterfront views in all of Rochester Hills. Views of Paint Creek from almost every room and they are AWESOME! Enjoy living in a setting where nature surrounds you. Desirable area near shops, schools, freeways and downtown Rochester. Enjoy the Paint Creek Trail which runs along side the condo. Take a swim in the community pool. Spacious and hard to find 3 bdrms. unit with
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,
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
EXCELLENT OPPORTUNITY TO LEASE THIS NEWLY UPDATED CONDO NEAR THE CLINTON RIVER TRAIL AND WITHIN WALKING DISTANCE TO DOWNTOWN ROCHESTER! 2 BDRMS, 1.1 BATHS AND APPROX 1,250 SQ FT W/UNFIN BASEMENT AND ATTACHED GARAGE. KITCHEN HAS NEWER VINYL PLANK FLOORING AND GORGEOUS CABINETS W/AZUL PLANTINO GRANITE COUNTERTOPS. ALL APPLIANCES ARE INCLUDED. BOTH BATHS ALSO HAVE BEEN UPDATED W/NEWER FLOORING,
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
WWelcome to Trailway Commons. This move-in ready three-bed, two-and-a-half-bath townhome offers 1,791 square feet of modern, low-maintenance living in a convenient Auburn Hills location. Built in 2021, the home features an open concept layout with luxury vinyl plank flooring throughout the first and second floors. The bright main level flows seamlessly from the living area into the kitchen and
Welcome home to Lake Village of Rochester Hills! Our floor plans consist of spacious 1 & 2-Bedroom Apartments featuring private entry, ample closet space, and in-home laundry. Our floor plans are considered some of the largest in the area. Our community features a picturesque setting with tree-lined streets, and beautifully landscaped grounds. From our great community amenities to our monthly
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
Conveniently located in the City Life Plaza; City Flats offers one and two bedroom homes with unique floor plans, luxurious finishes, cutting edge smart home automation and much more. Upgrade your lifestyle at City Flats and enjoy high-end modern living; all within walking distance to your daily needs and Downtown Rochester. Showings By Appointment Only.
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