Livingston County offers building opportunities in Southeast, though some factors need consideration.
📊55/100AcreScore
💰$14KLand $/acre
🏠$325KHome Value
👥193,866Population
📈+5.5%Growth (10yr)
🌊3%Flood RiskLow
🌡️Cold HumidClimateZone 5A
🏗️ Can You Build Here?
Livingston County has local zoning regulations. Check with the county building department for specific rules on your parcel. Barndominiums may require conditional use permits in some zones.
Zone
Min Lot
Barndo OK?
Residential
Varies
⚠️ Conditional
Agricultural
None
✅ Yes
Commercial
Varies
❌ No
Livingston County has local zoning. Contact the county building department for specific regulations.
📋 What Permits Do You Need?
Most states allow owner-builders to act as their own general contractor for personal residences. Check Michigan requirements — licensed subs are typically needed for electrical, plumbing, and HVAC.
Required Permits
• Building permit (residential)
• Septic permit (if no public sewer)
• Electrical permit
• Plumbing permit
Permit Office
Livingston County Building Department
Howell, MI
Contact county clerk for current hours and requirements
🌊 What's the Flood & Soil Risk?
Very low flood risk. Only 3% of Livingston County land falls within FEMA-designated flood zones — well below the national average.
3%
In Flood Zone
Good
Soil Drainage
Varies
Septic Viability
Source: FEMA National Flood Hazard Layer, USDA Web Soil Survey
💰 What Does It Cost?
Affordable land market. At roughly $14,000 per acre, Livingston County offers good value for builders looking for rural acreage.
$14K
Median $/acre
$325K
Median Home Value
$120–200
Build Cost $/sqft
1.35%
Property Tax Rate
Source: U.S. Census Bureau ACS 2024, Livingston County Assessor
🏔️ Why People Love Living Here
Livingston County sits in the heart of Southeast. Ann Arbor is 25 min away. Michigan has a state income tax — factor that into your cost-of-living calculations.
📈
Steady Community
A stable community with steady growth — less speculation, more authentic rural living.
🏠
Established Community
Zoning provides predictability — you know what your neighbors can and can't build. Good for long-term property value.
At a Glance
Population193,866
10-Year Growth+5.5%
County SeatHowell
State Income TaxYes
ClimateCold Humid (Zone 5A)
How Close Is Everything?
Ann Arbor25 min
DTW40 min
Austinvaries
💧 Utilities & Infrastructure
Most rural Livingston County land uses well water and septic systems. Municipal utilities are available near Howell. Check with local utility providers for your specific parcel.
Electric ProviderLocal Co-op / TXU
WaterWell or Municipal
SewerSeptic (most rural)
InternetVaries by location
Cell CoverageGood
Natural GasPropane common in rural areas
🏦 Financing & Incentives
USDA Rural Development loans are generally not available in Livingston County due to urban classification. FHA, VA, and conventional financing options are available.
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❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Can I build a barndominium in Livingston County?
Check with the Livingston County Building Department for specific zoning rules on your parcel. Some zones allow barndominiums outright, others may require conditional use permits.
How much does land cost in Livingston County?
Median price is approximately $14,000 per acre, though prices vary by location, road access, and improvements.
Is Livingston County eligible for USDA Rural Development loans?
Most of Livingston County is not eligible for USDA Rural Development due to its urban/suburban classification. Check the USDA eligibility map for specific addresses.
What is the property tax rate in Livingston County?
The effective property tax rate is approximately 1.35%. Check with the county assessor for the most current rates and any available homestead exemptions.
Do I need a licensed contractor to build in Livingston County?
Most states allow owner-builders to act as their own general contractor for personal residences, though requirements vary by state and county. In Michigan, check local building codes for specific licensing requirements. You'll typically need licensed professionals for electrical, plumbing, and HVAC work.