If you are looking at living in Oakland County and want a mix of open space, strong community roots, and access to the rest of Metro Detroit, you usually end up debating between two heavy hitters: South Lyon and Milford.
While they sit right next to each other on the map, they have completely different “personalities.” Milford feels like an established resort town with its rolling hills and historic downtown, while South Lyon is the booming suburban hub that has rapidly evolved from a quiet farming community into a major destination for new homeowners.
The core choice usually comes down to this: Do you want the boutique, hilly, “Up North” vibe of Milford, or the flatter, newer, and highly convenient location of South Lyon—especially if you need easy access to Ann Arbor? Let’s break down the numbers and the lifestyle to see which one fits you best.
Vibe & Lifestyle: Resort Charm vs. Suburban Boom
When you drive from one town to the other, the first thing you notice is the topography. Milford sits in a glacier-carved valley, giving it steep hills, winding roads, and extensive tree cover. It often feels like a vacation town. The vibe here is established, slightly artistic, and centered around nature, with the Huron River winding right through the community.
South Lyon, on the other hand, was historically agricultural, so the terrain is much flatter. This open space has allowed for a massive residential boom over the last two decades. It feels more like a classic American “hometown,” where the focus is on neighborhood block parties and the massive Pumpkinfest celebration every fall.
Demographically, you see a slight shift too. Milford tends to attract established buyers looking for unique character or acreage, while South Lyon attracts a high volume of first-time buyers and movers looking for turnkey modern living.
Real Estate & Housing Market Comparison
Because of that geography, the housing stock looks very different. Milford is your go-to for historic homes within walking distance of Main Street or custom-built estates on large, wooded lots out in the township. Inventory here can be tighter because people tend to stay put, and there isn’t as much room for sprawling new subdivisions.
South Lyon is the volume leader for new construction homes South Lyon has to offer. If you want a brand-new build with a modern floor plan, a finished basement, and a warranty, this is where you look. Builders have been active here for years, creating diverse neighborhoods that range from entry-level detached condos to executive estates.
Price-wise, Milford generally commands a premium. You can expect to pay roughly 5% to 10% more per square foot there compared to similar properties nearby. The median price often sits in the $500K+ range, largely driven by the scarcity of those unique lots. South Lyon offers a bit more flexibility, with a median price closer to the $450K range, giving buyers more entry-level and mid-range options.
If you are browsing homes for sale in Milford MI, be prepared to move quickly on unique properties. In South Lyon, the market moves fast due to high demand, but there is simply more inventory turnover to choose from.
Cost of Living & Tax Rates
This is one of the most important financial conversations to have before writing an offer. The sticker price of the home isn’t the only number that matters—you have to look at the tax rates, which vary significantly depending on whether you live in a City, a Village, or a Township.
Lyon Township (which has a South Lyon mailing address) is historically one of the most tax-friendly areas in the region. The millage rate here generally sits around 33 mills for homesteads. This is a huge draw for buyers who want to maximize their monthly purchasing power.
In contrast, if you buy in the Village of Milford, you pay a “Village tax” on top of your township taxes to cover amenities like sidewalk maintenance, extra police services, and waste management. That can push the total millage up toward 41 mills.
To put that in perspective, a home with the same taxable value could cost you significantly more per month in taxes in downtown Milford than in a Lyon Township subdivision. That said, the Village residents often feel the extra cost is worth it for the walkability and services provided.
Downtown Showdown: Main Street vs. Lake Street
Both towns have walkable downtowns, but they serve different purposes.
Downtown Milford is a regional destination. Anchored by Central Park and the Huron River, it draws visitors from all over the state. It has a high density of high-end dining, clothing boutiques, and nightlife. If you want to walk out your front door and have a choice of ten different places for a craft cocktail or a gourmet dinner, Milford wins. The “Milford Memories” summer festival is a massive event that takes over the entire town.
Downtown South Lyon is charming, historic, and very walkable, but it is quieter. It is anchored by the historic Witch’s Hat Depot and McHattie Park. The business mix here is more service-oriented—think insurance agents, salons, and bakeries mixed with beloved local staples like the South Lyon Hotel and Lake Street Tavern. It’s less of a tourist destination and more of a community living room.
Commuting: The Ann Arbor Factor
For many buyers, the commute is the tiebreaker. South Lyon has a “secret weapon” location: it is incredibly close to Ann Arbor.
If you work at the University of Michigan or the surrounding tech and hospital hubs, South Lyon is the clear winner. You can take Pontiac Trail or US-23 and be in Ann Arbor in about 20 to 25 minutes. Trying to make that same drive from Milford adds significant time, usually pushing the commute to 40 or 50 minutes on back roads.
However, if your commute takes you to Novi, Farmington Hills, or Detroit, Milford has the edge. It offers quicker access to I-96 and M-59. Both towns are roughly 45 to 50 minutes from downtown Detroit, but Milford’s proximity to the freeway ramps makes that drive feel a little smoother.
Education: South Lyon Community Schools vs. Huron Valley
Both communities are anchored by strong school districts that are major draws for new residents.
South Lyon Community Schools (SLCS) has seen explosive growth, leading to the construction of modern facilities and consistent updates to tech and infrastructure. The district is large enough to support two high schools—South Lyon High and South Lyon East—which helps keep class sizes manageable despite the population boom.
Huron Valley Schools serves Milford and Highland. This district also supports two high schools, Milford and Lakeland. Huron Valley has a stellar reputation for its arts and athletics programs. Because the population in Milford is more stable, enrollment numbers here don’t fluctuate as wildly as they do in high-growth areas, creating a very consistent community feel.
Parks & Recreation: Trails vs. Metroparks
If you love the outdoors, you can’t lose with either choice, but the type of recreation differs.
Milford is the gateway to Kensington Metropark, arguably one of the best parks in the state. The town is physically connected to the park via trails, meaning you can ride your bike from downtown straight into 4,000 acres of lakes, woods, and hills. It’s a rugged, nature-lover’s paradise that also offers great kayaking on the Huron River.
South Lyon is famous for the Huron Valley Rail Trail. This is a paved, flat, miles-long trail that connects the town to neighboring communities. It is perfect for runners, strollers, and casual cyclists who want a safe, accessible route without the steep grades. You are also just minutes away from Island Lake State Recreation Area and the seasonal fun at Erwin Orchards.
Verdict: Which Town is Right for You?
So, how do you decide?
You should choose Milford if you crave a bustling, walkable downtown life and historic character. It is the right fit if you don’t mind paying slightly higher taxes or home prices to get that “resort” atmosphere and rugged terrain. It is also ideal if your work keeps you primarily in Oakland County.
You should choose South Lyon if you want more square footage for your money and a newer home. It is the smart financial move for those seeking lower township taxes or a quiet, community-focused feel. And if you commute to Ann Arbor, South Lyon is hands-down the most convenient option.
If you are still on the fence, the best next step is to drive through both. Grab a coffee in downtown Milford, then head over to the Witch’s Hat in South Lyon, and see which one feels like home.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it cheaper to live in South Lyon or Milford?
Generally, South Lyon is more affordable. Home prices in South Lyon often sit in the mid-$400K range compared to the $500K+ range in Milford, and taxes in Lyon Township are significantly lower (approx. 33 mills) than in the Village of Milford (approx. 41 mills).
Which town is closer to Ann Arbor?
South Lyon is much closer to Ann Arbor. Residents can commute to the north side of Ann Arbor in about 20–25 minutes via Pontiac Trail or US-23, whereas the drive from Milford usually takes 40–50 minutes.
Do Milford and South Lyon have good downtowns?
Yes, both have vibrant, walkable downtowns. Milford is larger with more high-end dining and retail options, making it a regional destination, while South Lyon offers a quieter, historic downtown with great local pubs and service-oriented businesses.
