Farmington Hills is a city located in southeast Michigan in Oakland County. With a population of over 81,000 as of the 2020 census, it is one of the larger suburbs of Detroit. Farmington Hills has a diverse economy and is home to several major employers in industries such as healthcare, manufacturing, technology and education.
Population
According to the 2020 census, the population of Farmington Hills was 81,561. This makes it the 2nd largest city in Oakland County after Troy. The population density is around 2,200 people per square mile. The racial makeup of the city is approximately 70% White, 20% Asian, 5% Black and 5% Hispanic or Latino.
Farmington Hills saw rapid population growth through the 1970s, 80s and 90s. However, like many inner ring suburbs, its growth has slowed in recent decades. The population peaked at over 82,000 in the mid 2000s and has declined slightly since then. An aging population and smaller household sizes contribute to this trend.
Economy and Major Employers
Farmington Hills has a strong and diverse business climate. According to the city’s website, major employers include:
- Beaumont Hospital
- Robert Bosch
- United Shore Financial Services
- Farmington Public Schools
- Magna International
- Tom Holzer Ford
Healthcare is a major industry, with Beaumont Hospital being the largest employer in the city. Manufacturing also provides many jobs, with automotive suppliers like Robert Bosch and Magna International having a major presence. The corporate headquarters of United Shore Financial Services is located here as well.
Other important economic sectors include finance and insurance, professional and technical services, retail trade and education. Farmington Hills serves as a major employment center for white collar jobs in the metro Detroit region.
Landmarks and Places of Interest
Some of the most popular attractions and landmarks in Farmington Hills include:
- Heritage Park – A historical village and museum with over 20 restored 19th and early 20th century buildings.
- Indian Springs Metropark – Part of the Huron-Clinton Metroparks system, featuring wooded trails, wetlands and recreational facilities.
- Costick Center – Large community center with indoor and outdoor pools, ice arena, fitness center and classrooms.
- Longacre House – Historical home built in 1843 that is open for public tours and events.
- Westland Shopping Center – Enclosed shopping mall with over 180 stores and restaurants.
The city also has many parks and recreation facilities, including golf courses, tennis courts, ball fields and a skate park.
Local Sports
Farmington Hills is home to several amateur sports teams and organizations. The most notable is the Farmington Hills Vipers youth hockey association, which has produced several Division 1 college players and NHL draftees.
The city has two 18-hole public golf courses – Glen Oaks and Farmington Hills Golf Club. Farmington Hills also boasts over 25 baseball/softball diamonds that host youth league teams.
Other popular sports and recreation options for youth include soccer, lacrosse, basketball, football, swimming, dance, gymnastics and martial arts.
Adults can join sports leagues and take fitness classes through the Costick Center. There are adult leagues for hockey, volleyball, basketball, racquetball and more.
Local Government
Farmington Hills utilizes the Council-Manager form of government. The city is governed by a City Council consisting of a Mayor and 6 council members. The Council appoints a City Manager to serve as chief administrator overseeing city operations and departments.
The city provides a full range of municipal services including police, fire, water, sewer, trash, recycling, road maintenance, parks, recreation, and a public library. Property taxes provide the primary revenue source for Farmington Hills government.
Residents can learn more about city government, services, jobs and community events on the official city website.