Howell vs Brighton: Which Livingston County Town Is Right for You?
- Jun 5
- 4 min read
Howell vs. Brighton: Which Livingston County Town Is Right for You?
If you’re thinking about moving to Livingston County, Michigan, chances are you’ve considered two of its most popular communities: Howell and Brighton.
Both towns offer small-town charm, solid school systems, and easy access to metro Detroit, Ann Arbor, and Lansing. But each has its own personality, housing market, and lifestyle vibe. Whether you're a homebuyer, renter, investor, or relocating family, this guide will help you decide which community best fits your goals.
Quick Snapshot: Howell vs. Brighton
Let's compare these two amazing towns in this Howell vs Brighton comparison:
Category | Howell | Brighton |
Population (Source: US Census QuickFacts) | ~10,000 | ~7,900 |
School System | Howell Public Schools | Brighton Area Schools |
Commute to Ann Arbor | ~35 mins | ~25 mins |
Vibe | Historic, growing, affordable | Upscale, active, walkable |
Median Home Price (2025) | ~$367,000 | ~$420,000 |
Notable Features | Historic downtown, festivals, lower property taxes | Dining, shopping, lake access, recreation |
Lifestyle & Community Vibe
Howell: Charming, Historic, and Family-Centered
Howell feels like a classic small town with a strong sense of community. Its historic downtown is packed with small shops, coffee spots, and locally owned businesses. Think vintage charm meets modern convenience.
Major community events like Melon Fest, the Howell Sunday Farmers Market, and Fantasy of Lights Parade draw locals and visitors alike.
💬 "Howell has that 'Hallmark town' vibe — friendly, community-oriented, and a little more laid-back." Learn more about Howell at the City of Howell official website.
Brighton: Upscale, Active, and Walkable
Brighton offers a slightly more urban-suburban feel. With Mill Pond Park, year-round festivals, and a walkable downtown full of restaurants and boutique stores, it appeals to professionals and families who enjoy proximity to nightlife and recreation.
💬 "Brighton feels a little trendier and busier — perfect if you love a downtown with lots of activity." Visit the City of Brighton official site for local updates and resources.
“ Whether it’s Howell’s historic heart or Brighton’s lakeside energy, both towns offer something special.”
Housing & Affordability
Howell: Budget-Friendly with Room to Grow
Lower median home prices
New construction communities growing rapidly
Great for first-time buyers, young families, and investors
You’ll find:
Ranch-style homes
Duplexes and small multifamily opportunities
Spacious lots and quiet subdivisions.
Brighton: Higher-End, Higher Demand
Prices trend higher due to demand and location
Greater access to lakefront homes and condos
High resale value due to school ratings and accessibility
💬 Investors: Brighton properties may command higher rent, but Howell offers better entry-level cap rates.
Schools
Howell Public Schools
Consistently strong test scores
Newer facilities
Large, centralized district
Notable for STEM programs
Brighton Area Schools
Often ranked among top in Michigan
Competitive athletics and AP programs
Highly desirable for relocating families
💬 For families with kids, Brighton often leads in perceived school quality, while Howell remains solid and more affordable. Compare school ratings at GreatSchools.org for both Howell and Brighton districts.
Location & Commute
Howell is closer to Lansing and offers quick access to I-96 and M-59
Brighton is closer to Ann Arbor and metro Detroit via US-23 and I-96
Howell has slightly lighter traffic, while Brighton can get busier during peak hours
💬 If your commute is to Ann Arbor or Novi, Brighton will cut your drive by 10–15 minutes. Learn more about traffic updates and routes from the Michigan Department of Transportation.
Dining, Shopping, and Amenities
Howell Holds Its Own With:
Tanger Outlets
Historic charm and local shops
Community-focused events and slower pace
Brighton Wins On:
Restaurant variety
Boutique retail stores
Recreation and nightlife
Outdoor Activities
Both towns are outdoor-lover friendly, but:
Howell offers Thompson Lake, Howell Nature Center, and more hiking trails
Brighton is close to Island Lake State Park, Kensington Metropark, and several public lakes
💬 Explore recreation options at Island Lake State Recreation Area and Kensington Metropark.
Rental and Investment Property Potential
Howell:
Better ROI for long-term rentals
Growing population = increasing rental demand
Lower taxes and purchase price = higher cash flow
Brighton:
Premium rental rates
More tenant demand for high-end units
Ideal for short-term rentals or high-credit tenants
💬 At G3 Management, we manage successful investment properties in both markets and can tailor a strategy to match your goals.
So... Howell or Brighton?
You May Prefer Howell If You... | You May Prefer Brighton If You... |
Want affordability | Prefer upscale neighborhoods |
Like a quieter, small-town feel | Want walkability and nightlife |
Are buying your first home | Are upsizing or relocating |
Want better cap rates as an investor | Want higher rents or lakefront appeal |
Love historic charm | Want access to metro Detroit or Ann Arbor |
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re drawn to Howell’s historic heart or Brighton’s lakeside energy, both towns offer something special. Your choice depends on lifestyle, commute, budget, and long-term goals.
At G3 Management & Investments, we’ve helped hundreds of buyers, renters, and investors make confident moves across Livingston County. And we’re happy to help you weigh the pros and cons of each area based on your unique situation.
Reach out today for expert local advice, property tours, or to compare investment returns in both markets.
Want More?
About the Author Ricardo Reis - Learn About Ricardo
Entrepreneur, Inventor, Investor, Military Veteran. Ricardo is a member of G3 Management & Investments a division of Great Lakes Real Estate and a real estate professional. He is a real estate professional and a successful real estate investor for over 15 years.
NOT INVESTMENT, FINANCIAL, LEGAL, TAX, OR OTHER ADVICE: This blog is for informational purposes only and not a substitute for professional advice. We do not offer advice, solicitation, recommendations, or endorsements. You are solely responsible for evaluating the information's merits and risks. Always consult a qualified professional before acting.
