Northern Michigan offers families an unmatched combination of natural beauty, strong communities, and refined living. From the walkable neighborhoods of downtown Traverse City to the scenic lakefront areas beyond, the region provides an ideal setting for raising a family while enjoying the Northern Michigan lifestyle.
Best Neighborhoods in Traverse City
Slabtown: Historic Charm Meets Family-Friendly Living
Slabtown is one of Traverse City's most desirable neighborhoods, offering a combination of history, community, and accessibility that families will appreciate. Located on the west side of downtown, this area was originally a mill workers' district and now features a mix of historic cottages and modern homes. The neighborhood is renowned for its safe, tight-knit community and offers plenty of parks, waterfront areas, and recreational opportunities.
With its location near downtown Traverse City, Slabtown is walkable, making it easy for families to enjoy local shops, restaurants, and cultural events. Residents also benefit from excellent schools such as Willow Hill Elementary and Traverse City West Middle and High School. Parks like Veterans Park provide playgrounds, tennis courts, and even a dog park, while the nearby TART Trail allows for biking and walking along the waterfront. Housing options are varied, from historic homes to newly renovated properties, with prices ranging from mid-$400,000 to over $1 million, depending on size and location.
With its location near downtown Traverse City, Slabtown is walkable, making it easy for families to enjoy local shops, restaurants, and cultural events. Residents also benefit from excellent schools such as Willow Hill Elementary and Traverse City West Middle and High School. Parks like Veterans Park provide playgrounds, tennis courts, and even a dog park, while the nearby TART Trail allows for biking and walking along the waterfront. Housing options are varied, from historic homes to newly renovated properties, with prices ranging from mid-$400,000 to over $1 million, depending on size and location.
Central Neighborhood: Heart of the City
The Central Neighborhood, encompassing the Boardman and Oak Park areas, offers families a blend of historic architecture and close proximity to downtown attractions. This neighborhood is ideal for families who desire a peaceful environment without sacrificing convenience. Tree-lined streets and classic architecture create an inviting atmosphere, and the area is well known for being safe and highly walkable.
Central Grade School, a well-regarded elementary school, serves the neighborhood, while older students attend Traverse City Central High School. Families benefit from the area’s numerous parks, including F&M Park, with playgrounds and sports facilities, as well as the nearby Grand Traverse Civic Center, which offers an ice rink and sports fields. Housing in this area ranges from charming historic homes to smaller bungalows, with prices varying depending on the property’s age and condition.
Central Grade School, a well-regarded elementary school, serves the neighborhood, while older students attend Traverse City Central High School. Families benefit from the area’s numerous parks, including F&M Park, with playgrounds and sports facilities, as well as the nearby Grand Traverse Civic Center, which offers an ice rink and sports fields. Housing in this area ranges from charming historic homes to smaller bungalows, with prices varying depending on the property’s age and condition.
Kids Creek (The Commons Area): Tranquil Suburban Charm with Modern Amenities
Kids Creek, also known as The Commons area, offers a unique mix of suburban tranquility and historical charm, making it an attractive option for families. The neighborhood is centered around Munson Medical Center and the Grand Traverse Commons, providing a peaceful environment with plenty of green space and walking trails. The presence of healthcare professionals in the area contributes to a stable, community-focused atmosphere.
The neighborhood is served by Willow Hill Elementary, as well as West Middle and West Senior High School, which are known for their high academic standards. Families in Kids Creek can enjoy the area’s many parks, including the Grand Traverse Commons Natural Area, which offers hiking trails and opportunities for outdoor activities. The Historic Barns Park is another highlight, offering a community garden and botanical garden. Housing options range from single-family homes to renovated loft-style condos, with prices generally ranging from $400,000 to $600,000.
The neighborhood is served by Willow Hill Elementary, as well as West Middle and West Senior High School, which are known for their high academic standards. Families in Kids Creek can enjoy the area’s many parks, including the Grand Traverse Commons Natural Area, which offers hiking trails and opportunities for outdoor activities. The Historic Barns Park is another highlight, offering a community garden and botanical garden. Housing options range from single-family homes to renovated loft-style condos, with prices generally ranging from $400,000 to $600,000.
East Bay Area (Holiday Hills & Acme): Spacious Living with Scenic Views
For families seeking more space and a quieter environment, the East Bay area, including neighborhoods like Holiday Hills and Acme, provides an ideal setting. Located just outside the city limits, this area offers a peaceful, suburban feel while still keeping families close to Traverse City’s amenities.
The community here is tight-knit, with low crime rates and a relaxed atmosphere. Families can enjoy outdoor activities at Mt. Holiday, a local ski hill that offers year-round recreation. The Traverse City State Park provides beach access, playgrounds, and campsites, while the TART Trail extends into this area for biking and hiking. Schools in the East Bay area, such as Eastern Elementary and Cherry Knoll Elementary, are highly rated, with older students attending Traverse City Central High School. Housing in East Bay varies from newer suburban homes to large custom builds, with prices ranging from modest ranch homes to high-end properties overlooking East Grand Traverse Bay.
The community here is tight-knit, with low crime rates and a relaxed atmosphere. Families can enjoy outdoor activities at Mt. Holiday, a local ski hill that offers year-round recreation. The Traverse City State Park provides beach access, playgrounds, and campsites, while the TART Trail extends into this area for biking and hiking. Schools in the East Bay area, such as Eastern Elementary and Cherry Knoll Elementary, are highly rated, with older students attending Traverse City Central High School. Housing in East Bay varies from newer suburban homes to large custom builds, with prices ranging from modest ranch homes to high-end properties overlooking East Grand Traverse Bay.
Best Areas to Live Beyond Traverse City
Northern Michigan offers a range of exceptional areas just beyond Traverse City—each with its own blend of natural beauty, upscale amenities, and family-friendly lifestyle. From vineyard-lined peninsulas to crystal-clear lakeshores, these destinations showcase the best of Northern Michigan living.
Old Mission Peninsula – Vineyard Views and Waterfront Estates
Stretching gracefully into Grand Traverse Bay, Old Mission Peninsula is one of the region’s most scenic and exclusive areas. Families are drawn to its peaceful lifestyle, vineyard estates, and panoramic waterfront views—all just a short drive from downtown Traverse City.
From elegant modern builds to legacy properties surrounded by orchards and vines, Old Mission embodies refined Northern Michigan living.
From elegant modern builds to legacy properties surrounded by orchards and vines, Old Mission embodies refined Northern Michigan living.
Leelanau County – Small-Town Charm with Upscale Appeal
From Leland and Suttons Bay to Northport, Leelanau County offers breathtaking Lake Michigan vistas, boutique communities, and a rich sense of heritage. Families here enjoy a slower pace of life paired with exceptional local schools, artisan shops, and farm-to-table dining.
Homes in Leelanau range from restored historic cottages to luxury lakefront estates, many featuring private beach access and stunning sunset views.
Homes in Leelanau range from restored historic cottages to luxury lakefront estates, many featuring private beach access and stunning sunset views.
Torch Lake – Crystal-Clear Luxury
Often named one of America’s most beautiful lakes, Torch Lake is famous for its turquoise waters and relaxed elegance. Families seeking privacy and adventure find both here—enjoying boating, swimming, and waterfront living with an upscale twist.
Luxury homes and cottages line the lake, offering spacious lots, boat docks, and direct access to one of Michigan’s most coveted destinations.
Luxury homes and cottages line the lake, offering spacious lots, boat docks, and direct access to one of Michigan’s most coveted destinations.
Elk Rapids – Refined Coastal Village
Just north of Traverse City, Elk Rapids combines small-town character with resort-style sophistication. Its marinas, beaches, and walkable downtown make it a favorite for families seeking both community and convenience.
From charming in-town homes to waterfront estates, Elk Rapids offers a refined yet relaxed lifestyle that captures the essence of Northern Michigan’s coastal charm.
From charming in-town homes to waterfront estates, Elk Rapids offers a refined yet relaxed lifestyle that captures the essence of Northern Michigan’s coastal charm.
Lake Michigan Waterfront – The Pinnacle of Northern Michigan Living
For families seeking true luxury and privacy, Lake Michigan’s shoreline delivers unparalleled beauty. Expansive estates and architecturally stunning homes offer private beach access and panoramic views, creating an exclusive retreat that embodies the pinnacle of Northern Michigan living.
Find Your Ideal Home in Traverse City and Beyond
Families looking to make Traverse City and beyond their home can find the perfect neighborhood with the help of Brick & Corbett. Their team offers expert guidance to help families navigate the local real estate market, ensuring that they find a home in the best neighborhood for their needs. Whether you're interested in a historic property or a new build, Brick & Corbett is ready to assist you every step of the way.
