Home values in Oakland County: Which communities saw largest increases

Oakland County’s 2026 equalization report reveals three communities with over 10% residential property value increases, led by Leonard, a rural village with just 346 residents, which saw a 13% rise from 2025. Hazel Park, an inner-ring suburb north of Detroit, followed with a 12% increase, adding $49.6 million in total residential value, while Pontiac, the county seat, grew by 9% ($92.4 million). Lyon Township and Milford Township also saw gains of 8% and 10%, respectively, driven by high demand and limited new construction. The data highlights a shift in the Midwest housing market, now deemed the ‘hottest’ in the U.S. due to affordability, according to Jeff Glover of Glover Real Estate. Leonard’s property values remain in the $400,000–$600,000 range, making it attractive compared to pricier Oakland County areas. Meanwhile, Hazel Park’s surge marks a notable turnaround for an older suburb, while Pontiac’s recovery reflects its growing appeal after decades of economic struggles tied to General Motors’ bankruptcy and plant closures. No Oakland County community reported a decline in property values, though Wolverine Lake, Lake Orion, and Lathrup Village saw increases below 4%. Michigan’s Proposal A caps taxable value increases at 5% annually, regardless of market rises, limiting tax burdens even as home values climb. Pontiac Mayor Mike McGuinness attributed the city’s gains to renewed regional confidence and its affordability, noting home values still lagged 8.9% behind 2007 levels as recently as 2024. The trend underscores a broader regional rebound, with urban and suburban areas alike benefiting from demand and limited housing supply. Rural areas like Leonard and suburban hubs like Pontiac are now competing for buyers, driven by both affordability and revitalization efforts. The county’s equalization process ensures uniform assessments, though state equalized values often align with local figures, maintaining consistency in tax calculations.