Background Information

Demographics

Graph showing a rapidly increasing population from 1940 to 2000, followed by a small population loss in 2010 and small gains every decade since

Stats from the ACS re: population in 2010 and 2020, educational attainment, and persons per acre compared to the county.

An Aging Community

Like many other communities, Farmington Hills has seen its share of older residents increase over the past decade. This trend is likely to continue as those of the Baby Boomer generation reach this stage in life. A 2017 regional forecast underestimated the increase in the 65+ population by 3.6%, suggesting the City may need to prepare for not only a greater influx of new residents, but also a larger proportion of older residents.

The population distribution by age group in 2015, 2020, 2030, and 2045. The proportion of people 25-54 years old has declined, while that of 65-84 year olds has increased.

Share of the population 5-17 years old, 15-64 years old, and over 65. Median age is 42.9 years old.

Racial composition of Farmington Hills in 2010 and 2020

Households

Knowing how the community is organized into its most basic unit, households, is key in making effective plans for the future.

41.3% of residents live in households that have two or more people but no children, and 24.2% live in households that have two or more people with children. The remaining 34.6% live alone, with 16.6% of them being over the age of 65.

91.9% of Farmington Hills households have internet.

Housing

Housing in Farmington Hills

Data about housing can indicate the strength of the local economy and overall community appeal. Older housing reflects the physical, historic, and social context of a community. The age of housing influences local housing policies for rehabilitation and redevelopment. Older houses require additional maintenance and upkeep, and may also require upgrades to ensure energy efficiency, barrier-free access and increased livability for aging adults.

2020 American Community Survey housing statistics comparing Farmington Hills to Oakland County

A Community for All Ages and Abilities

Mindful of the very young
Mindful of the very old
Mindful of those with different abilities
Encompasses ADA guidelines

Principles of Communities for All Ages and Abilities

Support the development of public facilities that promote connectivity
Support diverse housing options that allow residents to "age in community"
Support a variety of transportation options that meet the needs of all community members
Include all community members in public decision making processes
Provide opportunities for citizens to volunteer and become involved
Address the health and social needs of all ages and abilities

Housing Preferences by Generation

Generation Z: Born 1998-2015 (currently <26 years old)

Generation Z has begun to enter the market and holds about 2% of all housing. This group has focused on purchasing inexpensive starter homes (median purchase price of $160,600 as of December 2019).

Person with a coffee cup representing a millenial

Millenials: Born 1981-1997 (currently 26-43 years old)

This group is the largest generation in US history. They are less likely to be homeowners than Baby Boomers and Gen Xers. They typically prefer living in high-cost cities and counties with a more urban environment.

Housing Trends

Affordability - Willingness to accept a smaller house and lots increasing as more Gen Zers enter the market and are focused on affordability.
Aging in Place - The likelihood of Americans staying in their current residences and not moving increases with age.
Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) - ADUs are residential units built on the same lot as a single family home (attached or detached) that provide completely separate living quarters, including a kitchen and bathroom. Examples of ADUs are shown below (Picture Source: Florida Housing Coalition)

Economy

Identifying trends in employment can help a community project future needs for land use categories and assess potential opportunities for economic development.

Employment Sectors - 2045 Forecast

The total number of workers in the City of Farmington Hills is 42,088, which is 6.6% of those in Oakland County. Overall jobs are projected to grow by 9.8% from 2015 to 2045.

Commuter-Adjusted Population

The commuter-adjusted population is the number of people who are in an area during the day, as opposed to the resident population, which is the number of people who are in an area during the evening hours. This information can be helpful in determining how to allocate resources and understand needs for development and infrastructure.