Farmington Hills, MI
- About the City
- Geography
- Climate and Weather
- Landmarks
- Transport
- Museums
- Sport and Recreation
- Universities and Academic Institutions
- Healthcare and Medical Institutions
Farmington Hills is a safe, affluent Detroit suburb in Michigan, home to over 83,000 residents, major corporate HQs, extensive parks, and the state's only Holocaust Memorial Center.
About the City
Official Status and Administrative Affiliation
- Full Official Name: Farmington Hills, Michigan.
- Administrative Role: Farmington Hills is a city in Oakland County, serving as a major northwestern suburb of Detroit. It is the second most populous community in Oakland County .
- Location and Region: Located in the state of Michigan, USA. Oakland County is known as one of the wealthiest counties in the Midwest, often touted for its high quality of life, excellent schools, and significant corporate presence .
Historical Names and Nicknames
- Historical Names: The area was originally part of Farmington Township, established in 1827. The first white settler, Arthur Power, arrived in 1824 and the settlement was known as Quakertown due to his Quaker roots .
- Nicknames: Locals often refer to it simply as "The Hills" .
Date of Foundation and Age
- Year of Foundation: The first settlement began in 1824 by Arthur Power from Farmington, New York . The area was organized as a township in 1827. The City of Farmington Hills was officially incorporated in 1973, consolidating the villages of Quakertown, Wood Creek Farms, and the remainder of Farmington Township .
- Age: As a city, Farmington Hills is just over 50 years old (founded in 1973). However, its history as a settled community spans 200 years.
Geographical Position and Coordinates
- Geographic Coordinates: 42°29′07″N 83°22′37″W .
- Location: Situated in southeastern Michigan, it is a northwestern suburb of Detroit, located roughly 22 miles (35.4 km) from downtown Detroit . It is bordered by West Bloomfield to the north, Franklin and Southfield to the east, Livonia to the south, and Novi to the west .
- Elevation: The city's elevation is approximately 262 meters (860 feet) above sea level .
- Geographic Type: A suburban city on the plains of the Great Lakes region.
City Type and Economic Specialization
Farmington Hills functions as a major suburban business and residential center.
- Corporate Hub: It is a significant business center for Metro Detroit, serving as the headquarters for numerous major companies, including the U.S. headquarters for Bosch, Mercedes-Benz Financial Services, and Nissan's North American technical center . Other companies like 5-Hour Energy, The Sharper Image, and Hitachi also have a major presence.
- Residential & Healthcare: A large, affluent residential community with Corewell Health's Beaumont Hospital as the city's largest employer .
- Educational Center: Known for its excellent public schools, which are a major draw for families .
Population and Demographics
- Population: As of the 2020 census, the city's population was 83,986 .
- Size Class: This makes Farmington Hills a large suburb. It is the second-largest community in Oakland County .
- Demographic Features: Farmington Hills is noted for being one of the most diverse communities in the region, with residents speaking more than 60 languages . It consistently ranks as one of the safest cities in Michigan and the United States .
City's "Calling Card" (In Short)
Farmington Hills is a safe, family-oriented Detroit suburb that seamlessly blends a rich history with a modern, cosmopolitan feel. It is known for its top-rated schools, expansive park system, and status as a corporate hub, offering a high quality of life just minutes from a major metropolis .
Geography
Water Features (Rivers, Lakes, Waterfalls)
- Rouge River: The primary hydrological feature is the Rouge River and its tributaries, which flow through the city. These waterways provide opportunities for fishing, kayaking, and are integrated into the city's park system .
National and Nature Parks
- Heritage Park: One of Oakland County's largest public parks, it's a central hub for community life, offering nature walks, sports facilities, and is a popular spot for photography, especially during homecoming and prom season .
- Shiawassee Park: A classic community park, ideal for picnics and family outings with a popular playscape. It is also the site of the annual Relay for Life event .
- Founders Sports Park: A massive sports and recreation complex featuring an ice arena, soccer fields, volleyball courts, baseball diamonds, and Riley Skate Park, the largest skate park in the Midwest .
- Shiawassee Basin Preserve: A nature reserve offering opportunities for hiking and birdwatching .
Unique Natural Features
- The Sled Hill: An iconic local landmark for children and families. Located across from Shiawassee Park, this large hill is the go-to spot for sledding on snowy winter days .
Climate and Weather
Climate Type and General Characteristics
Farmington Hills has a humid continental climate (Köppen: Dfa) , characterized by four distinct seasons with hot, humid summers and cold, snowy winters .
Average Monthly Temperatures
- Hottest Month: July, with an average daily temperature of 26.3°C (79.3°F) .
- Coldest Month: January, with an average daily temperature of -3.2°C (26.3°F) .
| Month | Avg. Temp (°C) | Avg. Temp (°F) |
|---|---|---|
| January | -3.2 | 26.3 |
| February | -1.7 | 28.9 |
| March | 3.0 | 37.4 |
| April | 8.1 | 46.5 |
| May | 17.1 | 62.8 |
| June | 22.5 | 72.4 |
| July | 26.3 | 79.3 |
| August | 24.6 | 76.3 |
| September | 20.5 | 69.0 |
| October | 12.0 | 53.5 |
| November | 4.0 | 39.1 |
| December | 1.1 | 34.0 |
*Source: *
Precipitation and Humidity
- Average Yearly Precipitation: 33 inches, which is well-distributed throughout the year .
- Snowfall: Average annual snowfall is around 43 inches .
- Wettest Month: May, averaging 31.95 mm (1.26 in) of precipitation .
- Average Humidity: The city has an average humidity of 69.6% .
Seasonal Highlights and Best Time to Visit
- Spring (April-May): A time of renewal with warming temperatures (8-17°C / 46-63°F) and increasing rainfall. Parks and nature trails begin to bloom.
- Summer (June-August): Warm to hot and humid, with average highs ranging from 22-26°C (72-79°F). This is the peak season for outdoor activities, enjoying the city's many parks, pools, and attending the annual Founder's Festival .
- Fall (September-November): Crisp, cool air and vibrant fall colors. September remains pleasant (20°C / 68°F), cooling towards November. Perfect for hiking and enjoying the scenery at Heritage Park.
- Winter (December-February): Cold and snowy, with average temperatures around -2°C (28°F). This season is embraced for winter sports like sledding at the famous Sled Hill and ice skating at Founders Ice Arena .
Specific Weather Phenomena
Lake-effect snow from the Great Lakes can occasionally impact the region, leading to heavy, localized snowfall events during the winter months.
Landmarks
[The Holocaust Memorial Center]
- Full Name: Holocaust Memorial Center Zekelman Family Campus.
- Description: This is the only Holocaust memorial museum in the state of Michigan . Its mission is to educate the public about the history and lessons of the Holocaust. The center features core exhibits, a memorial wall, a research library, and hosts numerous educational programs, making it a profound and essential cultural institution .
[Governor Warner Mansion]
- Full Name: Governor Warner Mansion.
- Year Built: The home was built in 1867 .
- Historical Significance: This was the home of Fred M. Warner, who served as the 26th Governor of Michigan from 1905 to 1911. Today, it stands as a historical landmark along Grand River Avenue, known for its well-preserved Italianate architecture, rolling green lawns, and picturesque gazebo. It's a popular backdrop for community events and photos .
[The Civic Theater]
- Full Name: The Civic Theater.
- Description: A picture-perfect, vintage cinema located in the heart of downtown Farmington (adjacent to Farmington Hills). With its classic marquee lights and intimate second-story screening rooms, it's a beloved local institution and a rite of passage for residents to watch films there .
[Longacre House]
- Full Name: Longacre House.
- Description: A historic manor house situated on a beautiful estate. It is another key historical site in the community, often used for tours, special events, and is a favorite spot for photographs, showcasing the area's architectural heritage .
[Moolinda the Cow]
- Full Name: Moolinda the Cow (at Silver Dairy).
- Description: A beloved, unofficial landmark and cultural icon. Silver Dairy is a local ice cream shop, and sitting on the statue of "Moolinda" the cow out front is a cherished childhood tradition for anyone who grew up in the area .
[Founders Sports Park & Riley Skate Park]
- Full Name: Founders Sports Park.
- Description: This sprawling complex is the heart of local sports and recreation. It includes the Founders Ice Arena, numerous soccer and baseball fields, volleyball courts, and the Riley Skate Park, which is recognized as the largest skate park in the Midwest, attracting skaters from across the region .
Transport
Nearest Major Airports
While Farmington Hills does not have a commercial airport within its city limits, it is conveniently located between Detroit's two major airports.
- Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport (DTW): Located approximately 30 miles south, near Romulus. It is the primary international airport serving the region.
- Bishop International Airport (FNT): Located about 40 miles northwest in Flint, offering an alternative for travelers, often with a focus on low-cost carriers.
Public Transportation System (Bus)
- SMART Bus: The Suburban Mobility Authority for Regional Transportation (SMART) provides public bus service in Farmington Hills. A key route is the 740 line, which travels along Grand River Avenue . The main bus stop in the area is located at 12 Mile Rd + Farmington Rd .
Major Highways
Farmington Hills is well-connected by a network of major roadways, providing easy access throughout Metro Detroit.
- Interstate 696 (I-696 / Walter P. Reuther Freeway): Passes just north of the city, providing a direct route east to other suburbs and into Detroit.
- Interstate 96 (I-96): Located south of the city, this freeway offers a route northwest to Lansing and southeast towards Detroit.
- M-5 (Haggerty Connector): A major north-south freeway that runs through the western part of Farmington Hills, connecting I-96 and I-696.
- Grand River Avenue: A historic thoroughfare and major commercial corridor that runs through the heart of Farmington Hills .
- 12 Mile and 14 Mile Roads: Major east-west arteries defining the city's northern and southern boundaries .
Museums
A Hub for Local and Regional Art
Farmington Hills boasts a vibrant public art scene, with several locations dedicated to showcasing the work of local and regional artists. The City of Farmington Hills runs a renowned Public Art Program, which features rotating, two-year-long exhibits at both City Hall (31555 W 11 Mile Road) and The Hawk Community Center (29995 W. 12 Mile Rd.) . These exhibits display a diverse range of media, including painting, sculpture, photography, ceramics, glass, and digital art, with many pieces available for purchase . The program provides a dynamic cultural experience for visitors and employees, with opening receptions held to celebrate new installations .
For those interested in exploring more art, the Plein Air Artist Gallery at the Heritage Park Nature Center and the Farmington Artists Club Gallery in the Costick Center offer additional exhibition spaces . The city also hosts annual events like the ART on the GRAND fine arts fair each June in historic downtown Farmington, and the Michigan Makers Market at The Hawk in October, providing further opportunities to engage with the local creative community .
Sport and Recreation
Community Sports and Facilities
Farmington Hills offers a wide array of sports and recreational opportunities for residents and visitors, centered around its excellent public facilities . Key locations include:
- Founders Sports Park: A hub for youth and adult soccer leagues and tournaments .
- Farmington Hills Ice Arena: Offers ice skating programs and events .
- Farmington Hills Golf Club: An 18-hole course measuring 6,413 yards, providing a challenging round of golf .
- The Hawk Community Center: A versatile facility featuring a stadium field, a track, newly resurfaced tennis and pickleball courts, and indoor spaces for basketball and volleyball . It hosts camps, clinics, and leagues for a variety of sports.
- Costick Center: Features indoor basketball courts and an aquatics center with a swim club .
- Riley Archery Range: Located in Heritage Park, this state-of-the-art facility offers lessons, open shooting, camps, and competitive leagues for all ages .
Local Teams and Athletes
While the city is primarily a hub for community and youth sports, it is home to developmental programs like the Warriors Baseball Club of Michigan. This travel baseball organization has helped numerous young athletes from Farmington Hills and the surrounding area earn college commitments, including to NCAA Division I schools such as Michigan State University, the University of Maryland, and the University of Alabama at Birmingham .
Universities and Academic Institutions
Specialized Graduate Education
Farmington Hills hosts the Michigan School of Psychology (MSP) , a private, not-for-profit graduate school located at 26811 Orchard Lake Rd . Founded in 1980, MSP is a specialized institution focused exclusively on psychology. It offers master's and doctoral degrees (Psy.D.) in clinical psychology, with a strong emphasis on professional practice . The school is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission and its clinical psychology doctoral program holds programmatic accreditation from the American Psychological Association . With a small, focused student body, MSP serves as a significant center for advanced psychological study in the region.
Healthcare and Medical Institutions
Corewell Health Farmington Hills Hospital
The primary medical facility in the city is Corewell Health Farmington Hills Hospital (formerly Beaumont Hospital - Farmington Hills), located at 28050 Grand River Avenue . This acute care hospital provides emergency services and is affiliated with a vast network of over 800 clinicians and physicians, covering a comprehensive range of 80 medical specialties . Specialties represented include cardiology, neurology, family medicine, internal medicine, oncology, orthopedics, and pediatrics, among many others . The hospital's performance is measured and published by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, with data available on categories such as timely and effective care, complications, and patient outcomes . It serves as a key healthcare provider not only for Farmington Hills but also for the surrounding communities in southeastern Michigan .