South Lyon sits roughly 40 miles west of Detroit, offering a small-town setting without straying far from big city amenities. “It’s a quaint, quiet, rural bedroom community,” says Lisa Prochazka, associate broker with Real Estate One in South Lyon. “There’s a downtown area and we have some larger acreage parcels, so people can get more space.” Incorporated as a city in 1930, South Lyon enjoys a longstanding history, especially with the railroad industry, which once operated three lines running through the small city. Today, the CSX main line from Detroit to Grand Rapids still runs through South Lyon, but the city’s largest employers are the South Lyon School District, Michigan Seamless Tube and the South Lyon Hotel.
Witches Hat Depot Museum is a local staple in South Lyon.
South Lyon Hotel employs locals and offers dining options in South Lyon.
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The shops and restaurants of downtown South Lyon
Initially built in 1867, the South Lyon Hotel was originally the city’s central hotel and still provided rooms into the late 1980s. Converted to a restaurant and banquet hall, it was destroyed by fire in 2016. In a demonstration of the sense of community across the city, ownership and locals rallied to bring the hotel back to life, reopening the following year. Surrounding the hotel, the city’s downtown is as a hub for shopping and dining, offering various locally owned shops and restaurants. “We finally got a Downtown Development Authority,” Prochazka says. “There’s a farmers market, concerts in the park and a lot of new restaurants.” Dining options range from the hotel’s full menu of Americana to fresh baked goods or upscale Italian cuisine. Shopping options are just as varied, with shops offering toys, video games, boutique clothing and more. For groceries and other necessities, residents can head to Busch’s Fresh Food Market on Pontiac Trail or Kroger, which is also on Pontiac Trail but just south of city limits.
The Corner Social in South Lyon is a great spot all year long for lunch.
Sip on a freshly poured craft beer from Witch's Hat Brewery in South Lyon.
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History and hiking abound in South Lyon parks
Spanning five parks and the Huron Valley Trail, South Lyon’s park system holds more than 200 acres of green space where the community can enjoy baseball fields, basketball and volleyball courts, playgrounds and more. Unique activities across the city include a popular sledding hill in McHattie Park, also home to the Witch’s Hat Depot Museum & Village. The historic site offers a glimpse into the city’s past with an old train depot, a schoolhouse and a chapel. The 12-mile Huron Valley Rail Trail extends from South Lyon to Wixom and connects to surrounding trails, offering an additional 25 miles of trail to explore.
Witches Hat Depot Museum has an old school house that was used for many years in South Lyon.
The Huron Valley Trail runs through South Lyon.
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Depot Days and other community events
South Lyon’s small-town vibe is even more apparent when the town comes together for annual events. The community comes together for events like Depot Days and the annual Pumpkinfest , with live music, crafts, model trains, pie-eating contests and even a dog costume contest. In the summer, residents enjoy movies and live music at McHattie Park. The holiday season is celebrated spectacularly with the Holiday Spectacular tree lighting and parade.
Enjoy all your favorite carnival foods! Hot dogs, french fries, funnel cakes at Pumpkinfest.
Locals come and stroll the streets downtown at the annual Pumpkinfest.
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A mix of housing in a sellers’ market
While many homes were built between the 1950s and 1970s, new subdivisions are popping up across South Lyon, adding modern craftsman-style and New Traditional homes to its inventory of mid-century bungalows, colonial revivals and ranch-style homes. Single-family homes typically sell between $100,000 and $850,000, though larger estates can sell for more than $1 million. Townhomes and condos are also available and usually sell from $65,000 to $500,000. The median home price in South Lyon is $450,000, up 14% from the previous year, and homes spend an average of 27 days on the market.
Traditional minimal homes in South Lyon are very charming and well-kept.
There is a wide variety of home styles in South Lyon.
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South Lyon Community Schools
The South Lyon Community Schools district earns an A-minus on Niche with eight elementary schools, two middle schools and two high schools. With just under 8,500 students, the district maintains a 20:1 student-teacher ratio and is ranked among the 50 districts with the best teachers in Michigan. The district’s average graduation rate is 91%, and the average SAT score is 1220.
Students are taught a challenging curriculum at South Lyon East High School.
Kids are challenged to excel at Bartlett Elementary School in South Lyon.
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Convenient commutes to Detroit jobs
With its suburban neighborhood sidewalks, network of trails and compact size of less than 4 square miles, South Lyon is a fairly walkable community. There are no public transportation options, but Interstate 96 is just about 4 miles north and puts downtown Detroit roughly a 40-mile drive away. A little more than 10 miles east, Interstate 275 puts the Detroit Metro Airport 34 miles away.
Crime rates are notably lower in South Lyon
According to FBI data, South Lyon’s property and violent crime rates tend to be less than a fifth of the average rates for Michigan and the United States overall. Environmental data indicates the city is at moderate risk of damage from wildfires over the next 30 years, with 55% of properties at risk of being affected. Like many Michigan cities, it expects significant snowfall over most winters, averaging 44 inches per winter.
Written By
Konrad Solberg
Photography Contributed By
Scottie Davison
Video By
Amon Parson
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
Theresa Edwards,
an experienced agent in this area.
GreatSchools:
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On average, homes in South Lyon, MI sell after 39 days on the market compared to the national average of 56 days. The median sale price for homes in South Lyon, MI over the last 12 months is $480,000, down 5% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Stunning Open-Concept Manufactured Home in Desirable Woodland Ridge!This beautifully updated 3-bedroom, 2-bath home is move-in ready and packed with modern upgrades. Featuring a spacious, open-concept layout, the large living room flows seamlessly into the island kitchen and dining area—perfect for entertaining family and friends.Recent updates include: New roof (2025) with transferable
What a great house. Beautifully maintained and recently built, this home is perfect for those looking to get into the highly rated South Lyon School district. Directly across the street from Riverbank Golf Course and 5 minutes from Tanglewood, Links of Novi, and Walnut Creek CC, this bright and welcoming colonial is ideally located. It's spacious first floor features an open floor plan, high
Welcome home to 9019 Silver Pine in desirable Green Oak Township with award-winning Brighton Schools! Offering 2,425 sq ft of living space, this well-maintained 4-bedroom, 2.5-bath home is perfectly situated on over a half-acre lot. Freshly painted throughout, the home features an updated kitchen, an inviting family room with a cozy gas fireplace, and plenty of space for everyday living and
Elizabeth Primeau@properties Christie's Int'l R.E. Royal Oak
Welcome to 20809 Gidran Drive—where luxury, comfort, and thoughtful upgrades come together in one exceptional home! Better than new and impeccably maintained by the original owners, this stunning 2022-built colonial offers nearly 2,933 sq. ft. of beautifully designed living space in the highly sought-after Estates of Hutsfield. Outstanding curb appeal welcomes you with professional landscaping,
This stunning manufactured home is located in the prestigious Woodland Ridge Manufactured Home Community and sits on one of the largest corner lots in the neighborhood. With an attached 26x30 two-car garage and parking for up to 7 vehicles, this home offers exceptional space and convenience. Step inside to discover a pristine, move-in-ready interior featuring flat ceilings and full drywall walls
Bright 2-Bed, 2-Bath Condo with Finished Basement & Amenities. This inviting 900 sq.ft. condo features a vaulted living room, luxury vinyl floors, and a functional galley kitchen. Enjoy the bonus 3-seasons room for extra relaxation space. The finished 800 sq.ft. basement adds a spacious family room, flex room, and full bath—perfect for guests, hobbies, or a second living zone. Updates include new
Exceptional Custom-Built Home situated on a wooded 1.91 acre parcel in South Lyon school district. This beautifully maintained home offers over 3600 sq.ft., 4 bedrooms and 2.5 baths with a spacious open floor plan. The large living room has a brick fireplace that opens to the covered 20 x 20 covered patio. The stunning kitchen offering oak cabinetry, hardwood floors, granite countertops, tile
Enjoy the convenience of maintenance-free exterior living in this one-story, end-unit home. You'll appreciate the neutral and well-kept interior. The kitchen offers plenty of cabinets and counter space with double-bowl stainless steel sink, ceiling fan, dishwasher, stove and refrigerator are included. Dining area has chair rail molding and chandelier on dimmer. Primary bedroom has large walk-in
Home Sweet Home! cozy 55 and over community. Ranch 2 bedroom, 1 bath with a carport move in ready. Updated bathroom with walk-in-shower. 2 Bedrooms both with doorwalls. Sunroom. Kitchen with newer countertops. All appliances included. Washer Dryer Stove Fridge dishwasher. Laminate floor in Kitchen & living room. Partially Finished Basement with Craft area , TV area, Workshop and Laundry room HOA
55+ Community Colonial Acres Co-op - End unit condo with walkout basement located a short walk from Downtown South Lyon just listed for sale. Enter from the private courtyard to an open floor plan great room, dining space, and kitchen which offers plenty of natural light. Primary bedroom on main level is oversized and includes two closets with built in storage systems, a private sink, and an
Investor Special with Lake Access. The home sits on a large lot and has been fully gutted, offering a blank canvas ready for your renovation vision. Perfect for a custom build, flip, or long-term investment. This is a rare opportunity to own this prime property in the highly sought-after South Lyon area! Opportunities like this don't last long. Seller is motivated. Schedule your showing today and
Stunning Open-Concept Manufactured Home in Desirable Woodland Ridge!This beautifully updated 3-bedroom, 2-bath home is move-in ready and packed with modern upgrades. Featuring a spacious, open-concept layout, the large living room flows seamlessly into the island kitchen and dining area—perfect for entertaining family and friends.Recent updates include: New roof (2025) with transferable
The Austin is a two-story home with 4 bedrooms, 2.5 bathrooms, and more than 2,700 sq. ft. of living space. The first floor showcases a dining room off the foyer, great room that opens to the kitchen and eat-in nook, and a mud room with a walk-in closet. The second floor features a loft, laundry room, primary suite with full bath, and three secondary bedrooms with walk-in closets. Looking for a
Over 1,800 sqft of true one level living designed to meet all your dream home needs! Enter through your charming foyer with access to an adjacent den before entering the open spaced concept main living area. Tons of natural light will greet you showcasing your great room, dining room and kitchen. When its time for rest, retreat to your primary suite with a private bathroom and large walk-in
BRAND NEW CONSTRUCTION, Fully Landscaped with Immediate Occupancy! A stunning craftsman-style colonial offering the perfect blend of luxury, functionality, and modern design. 4 bedrooms and 3 full baths, this home invites you in with a grand two-story foyer, rich hardwood floors, and stylish chandelier. The open-concept main floor boasts 9-foot ceilings and flows seamlessly from the inviting
Rates start at $2,599.00! Accepting applications for August and October move in dates. Limited Availability! Call today for details! Ivy Townhomes is a recently built modern 3 bedroom, 2.5 bathroom townhome community where we prioritize upscale, convenient living. Each townhome has been designed with your unique needs in mind, showcasing plenty of storage space, single-car attached
Welcome to Water's Edge, your tranquil retreat nestled among mature shade trees and lush landscaping, overlooking a serene lake. Our community has recently undergone extensive renovations, providing you with a refreshed living experience.At Water's Edge, you'll find a selection of one- and two-bedroom apartment homes, each with a private entrance, air conditioning, and spacious closets,
Nestled in the quaint downtown of South Lyon, Michigan, Westlake Place offers residents small town charm and in-home luxury. Near shopping, dining, and parks of South Lyon, living here feels convenient and serene. Find a family-friendly community event happening downtown, seasonal outdoor activity at McHattie Park, or college football energy in Ann Arbor just 20 minutes away.Explore a variety of
Brookdale Apartments is located in the heart of South Lyon, Michigan, known for its historic charm, top-notch parks, and our excellent schools. Our community offers beautiful as well as spacious one and two bedroom apartment homes. Our professional and friendly staff is here to provide you with the best customer service to help make your move as easy as possible! Residents at Brookdale Apartments
Welcome to Brookwood Farms Apartments in South Lyon, MI! We offer spacious one, two, and three-bedroom apartments with fully equipped kitchens, washer and dryer hookups, walk-in closets, private entrances, and more. Our pet-friendly community features indoor and outdoor pools, a fitness center, tennis and basketball courts, a library, a business center, covered parking, and a kids' park.
Spacious 2- and 3-bedroom townhomes for rent in South Lyon, MI with private entries and modern updates. Donovan Townhomes offers a true townhome living experience with large floor plans, updated finishes, and private in-unit laundry in every home.Each townhome features a private entrance, oversized kitchen, and comfortable living space designed for everyday functionality. Well-maintained
Property Id: 1390104 Beautiful 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom home offering approximately 1,575 sq. ft. of comfortable living space in a desirable South Lyon neighborhood. This home features a spacious kitchen with stainless steel appliances, ample cabinet storage, and an inviting layout perfect for everyday living. Enjoy the outdoors from the beautiful brick paver patio overlooking a large,
You must be at least 55 yrs old to rent here. This is a 55+ community in Colonial Acres located In South Lyon offers many activities in the complex, senior center and pool. This very clean, bright corner unit has new carpet, two bedrooms and 1 bath. Also condo has an enclosed/covered back porch. All appliances are included. Water and heat included in rent. And added bonus is covered car
Duplex nestled in the heart of South Lyon, just a leisurely stroll from the thriving downtown area, this 3-bedroom, 1-bathroom home offers the perfect blend of modern comfort, convenience, and family-friendly living.Prime Location: Peaceful neighborhood where the charm of downtown South Lyon is at your doorstep. Explore the quaint boutiques, savor meals at cozy cafes, and become part of a
Fantastic opportunity to lease this charming and affordable 2-bedroom, 1-bathroom apartment located in the heart of South Lyon! Available for a 12-month lease at $1,275 per month, Security Deposit $1,275. Condo features elevated upgraded flooring and warm natural light. Enjoy the convenience of onsite laundry facilities and a welcoming policy for animals (breed restrictions apply). - Application
Anne JacobsThe Stephan Group
$4,500 per month
Coming Soon! Stunning South Lyon Home with Outdoor Oasis!
Welcome to 23431 Crooked Tree Ct S, a beautifully maintained 4-bedroom, 2.5-bathroom home that perfectly blends comfort, space, and style. Step inside to discover bright, inviting living spaces, a modern kitchen with elegant finishes, and a spacious entertainment room that's ideal for hosting gatherings or enjoying cozy family movie nights.Step outside to your private patio featuring a
151 E. McHattie St. #2 | South Lyon, MI 48178 Welcome home to this charming 1-bedroom, 1-bathroom apartment located in the heart of South Lyon. This well-maintained unit offers comfortable living with convenient amenities, including on-site laundry and off-street parking. The apartment features baseboard heating and is available for immediate occupancy. Residents are responsible for electricity
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