Salaries in Farmington Hills, MI

You might be surprised to learn that Farmington Hills isn’t just a quiet Detroit suburb—it’s a hub for tech and healthcare salaries that punch well above its size. With a population hovering around 82,500, this city quietly boasts a median household income of $90,598, which is notably higher than many places its size.

But here’s the real purchasing power story. Farmington Hills has a cost of living index of 98.0, meaning it’s slightly cheaper than the national average. That $1,029 monthly rent for a one-bedroom isn’t cheap, but it’s manageable on the city’s top salaries. The COL-adjusted numbers show what that really means: a software developer’s $126,496 salary effectively feels like $129,078 here. You’re not getting a bargain, but your dollar stretches a bit further than in, say, Chicago or Boston.

Who actually thrives here? The data points to two clear sectors. The tech industry is a quiet powerhouse, likely fed by the broader Detroit metro’s automotive and mobility tech scene. You’ll also find a strong contingent of nurses and accountants, supported by major regional healthcare systems and corporate offices that have set up shop in this affluent suburb. Education levels are high—56.5% of residents have a bachelor’s degree or more—which fuels these professional-class jobs.

Here’s my honest take: the wages look solid, but I wonder if they’re keeping pace. That 4.0% unemployment rate is healthy, but with the average salary across all roles at just $54,057, the gap between the top earners and everyone else is stark. This city works best if you’re in one of those high-demand fields like software or nursing. For others, it might feel like you’re subsidizing a lifestyle aimed at a different income bracket.

The numbers below will break down exactly what you can expect to earn in the city’s top-paying jobs, both raw and adjusted for what it actually costs to live here.