Exploring the Luxury Neighborhoods in Ann Arbor, MI

Ann Arbor, Mich., is celebrated for its intellectual energy, verdant landscapes, and a vibrant downtown core. For individuals seeking a high-end living experience, the area offers a compelling mix of prestigious in-town neighborhoods and tranquil residential communities.

The residential landscape in Ann Arbor and its adjacent towns provides a diverse range of options, each with its own architectural style, community feel, and access to amenities. This guide explores some of the most distinguished residential areas, highlighting their unique attributes and what makes them some of the luxury neighborhoods in Ann Arbor MI.

Ann Arbor Hills is a premier residential neighborhood on the city's east side. Celebrated for its lush, hilly terrain and a diverse architectural heritage, this area provides a sense of seclusion and space, with winding roads and mature trees that create a serene, park-like environment.

The homes in Ann Arbor Hills showcase a broad range of architectural styles, from preserved classic houses of the 1920s to unique mid-century modern designs. Properties often sit on lots larger than half an acre, providing residents with significant privacy and expansive yards. While feeling miles away from the city's energy, the neighborhood's location is just a short drive from downtown Ann Arbor and the University of Michigan's campuses.

Barton Hills is an exclusive, luxury community located in the northwest of Ann Arbor, along the picturesque Huron River. This established neighborhood is known for its serene and peaceful setting, with large lots and lush, wooded hills that give each property a secluded feel.

The neighborhood surrounds the prestigious Barton Hills Country Club, which features a golf course, tennis courts, and elegant dining facilities. Homes here are often stately, with a mix of historic and modern models, many with at least five bedrooms. Despite the sense of seclusion, Barton Hills residents enjoy convenient highway access and are just a short distance from downtown Ann Arbor.

Burns Park is a highly sought-after neighborhood in central Ann Arbor that successfully merges history, community, and culture. The area is known for its tree-lined streets and well-preserved homes, many dating back to the late 1800s and early 1900s. It provides a lifestyle rooted in a sense of place and local engagement.

The neighborhood's namesake, Burns Park, is a fifteen-acre green space that once hosted the Washtenaw County Fairgrounds. Today, it is a hub for outdoor activities, offering tennis courts, sports fields, playgrounds, and a sledding hill. The architecture in the neighborhood is a tapestry of styles, including Art Deco, Bungalow, Tudor, and Cottage designs, with many homes retaining original details like plaster walls and coved ceilings.

Downtown Ann Arbor is the heart of the city, offering a bustling and cosmopolitan living experience. This neighborhood is ideal for those who thrive on energy and excitement, with a constant flow of activities, dining, and cultural attractions at your doorstep.

The downtown area is comprised of four distinct districts: Kerrytown, Main Street, South University, and State Street, each with its own unique character. The housing options here include a mix of modern apartments, lofts, and historic homes, catering to various tastes. The area's walkability and proximity to the University of Michigan's campus make it a lively place to live.

The Old West Side is a residential neighborhood in Ann Arbor known for its tranquil atmosphere and well-preserved 19th-century homes. It is a peaceful haven with tree-lined streets that evoke nostalgia. The neighborhood is a designated historic district, reflecting its storied past and architectural significance.

The homes in this neighborhood were built between 1850 and 1925, and their styles are eclectic. Many of the homes have retained their original charm and integrity. The Old West Side offers a serene residential feel within walking or biking distance of downtown Ann Arbor's dining and shopping options. This blend of quiet living and accessibility makes it a unique choice among the luxury neighborhoods in Ann Arbor MI.

Located approximately 18 miles west of downtown Ann Arbor, Chelsea is an established community home to the award-winning Purple Rose Theatre. The housing styles range from charming turn-of-the-century frame homes to new construction in residential subdivisions. The city's proximity to the Waterloo and Pinckney Recreation areas, totaling over 30,000 acres of land, provides endless opportunities for outdoor activities like hiking and fishing.

Dexter is a community that offers a serene and picturesque residential experience along the Huron River. It is known for its quaint downtown, its proximity to nature, and its beautiful, custom-built homes. The housing in Dexter ranges from historic farmhouses to modern timber homes, many of which feature spacious lots and elegant architectural details. The community is well-connected by the Border-to-Border Trail, a paved pathway through Washtenaw County.

Plymouth is a vibrant city with a charming downtown, a walkable feel, and a historic atmosphere. The residential areas in Plymouth feature a mix of housing styles, from historic homes to newer developments. The city's master plan prioritizes new construction and redevelopment. Plymouth offers a balance of small-town living with convenient access to the larger Detroit metropolitan area.

Saline, located just 10 minutes southwest of Ann Arbor, offers a lively community with a strong agricultural heritage. The city has a well-regarded Parks and Recreation Department that includes nine parks and a recreation complex with two pools and courts for basketball, tennis, and volleyball. Housing styles range from historic frame homes to spacious executive residences on large suburban lots.

South Lyon offers a quiet, suburban living experience with a charming, walkable downtown. Located west of Detroit and Ann Arbor, it balances a small-town atmosphere with access to the amenities of a larger metropolitan area. The downtown area of South Lyon is a central hub for local businesses, with a mix of shops, eateries, and parks. The community’s location, with access to major highways, makes it a convenient spot for commuters.

Ypsilanti is a distinctive city situated along the Huron River, which provides residents with scenic views and access to outdoor recreation. The city's downtown area is home to a variety of unique shops, art galleries, and restaurants. The city has a deep history, which is preserved in its historic architecture and landmarks. Residents can enjoy the city's various parks and trails, such as those along the Huron River.

Whether you're buying your first home or selling a cherished property, JoAnn Barrett brings the energy, heart, and business acumen to make your real estate journey smooth and rewarding. Known for positivity, creativity, and commitment to clients, JoAnn combines a strong foundation in business — with an MBA from Northwestern and years as a successful entrepreneur — with a deeply personal approach that makes every client feel seen and supported.

Reach out today and take the first step toward your next great opportunity.