Escaping the City: Why Homebuyers Are Moving to Gregory and Rural Michigan in 2026

If you’ve been watching the Livingston County real estate market lately, you’ve probably noticed a trend. As prices in the major hubs like Howell, Brighton, and Ann Arbor stabilize but remain high, more homebuyers are looking "just down the road" for better value and a different pace of life.

The secret is out: Gregory, Michigan (and Unadilla Township) is becoming the destination for buyers who want land, lower taxes, and quiet—without completely disconnecting from civilization.

As a local Realtor who lives right here in Gregory, I’ve seen this shift firsthand. In early 2026, the demand isn't just for a house; it's for a lifestyle. Here is why people are making the move to rural Livingston County, and what you need to know before you buy.

1. More "House" for Your Money

In 2026, the median price per square foot in the denser parts of Livingston County is hovering around $200/sq. ft., and inventory remains tight (down roughly 3% year-over-year in some areas).

In contrast, moving 15–20 minutes out to Gregory or Unadilla Township often opens the door to:

• Acreage: Instead of a postage-stamp backyard, you are looking at 1 to 5+ acres.
  
  
• Outbuildings: Space for a pole barn, workshop, or storage for your boat/RV.
  
  
• Privacy: If you are tired of looking into your neighbor’s kitchen window, the rural setbacks here are a breath of fresh air.
  
  

2. The "Up North" Feel (Without the 3-Hour Drive)

One of the biggest draws to Gregory is access to nature. You don't need to drive to the U.P. to find trails and lakes; they are in your backyard.

• The Lakeland Trail: The trailhead in downtown Gregory is a hidden gem. It’s barrier-free and perfect for biking, walking, or even horseback riding.
  
  
• Pinckney Recreation Area: We are right next door to 11,000 acres of state land. For my clients with dogs (or active kids), having this kind of space nearby is unbeatable.
  
  

3. The Internet Myth: Can You Work from Here?

This is the #1 question I get from buyers moving from cities like Fowlerville or South Lyon: "Can I actually get high-speed internet?"

A few years ago, this was a challenge. In 2026, it’s a different story, but you have to be specific.

• Fiber & Cable: Companies like Spectrum and emerging fiber providers have expanded significantly into the "hamlet" areas of Gregory.
  
  
• Starlink: For homes further out on country roads, Starlink has become a reliable game-changer for rural Michigan, offering speeds that easily support Zoom calls and streaming.
  
  
• The Realtor Tip: Never assume a rural house has high-speed internet just because the listing says so. Verify it. As your agent, I always check the specific address availability before we even write an offer.
  
  

4. Rural Utilities 101: Well vs. Septic

If you’ve only ever lived in the city, "well and septic" can sound scary. It shouldn’t be.

• The Well: No monthly water bill! However, you do need to inspect the pump and water quality during your inspection period.
  
  
• The Septic: In rural Livingston County the seller is not required to do a POS (point-of-sale) septic inspection, but inspections are simple to do yourself through contractors and if the system as been maintained, they will virtually last forever!
  
  

5. Community and Commute

Living in Gregory means you are part of a small, tight-knit community, but you aren't isolated. You are still within easy driving distance of:

• Chelsea & Stockbridge: For local dining and boutique shopping.
  
  
• Howell: For the big-box stores and major healthcare.
  
  
• Ann Arbor: An easy commute for those working at the university or hospital systems.
  
  

The Bottom Line

The 2026 market is shaping up to be a year of "smart moves." Moving to a town like Gregory allows you to lock in a property with tangible assets—land, trees, and privacy—that will always hold value.

Are you looking for a home with a little more breathing room? I don’t just sell homes here; I live here. Whether you need a property with a fenced yard for the dogs or a pole barn for the toys, let’s find your spot in the country.