Farmington has been recognized for its successes and efforts in contributing to Michigan’s entrepreneurial growth and economic development in the annual eCities study conducted by researchers at iLabs, University of Michigan-Dearborn’s Office of Engagement and Impact. Farmington was honored as a five-star community along with 89 other communities across the state last month.
 
“Farmington is thrilled again this year, that the economic success and vitality of the City continues as we are recognized as a 5-Star Community for 2023 by the University of Michigan-Dearborn eCities Program, said Kevin Christiansen, City of Farmington Planning and Building Department Director. “We are pleased and honored to receive this recognition. The City leadership, volunteers and stakeholders, and the entire business community in the City have rallied together with a focus on making Farmington a vibrant and welcoming community. This recognition is a reflection of that effort.”

The eCities study analyzed publicly available data from 277 communities from 54 counties in Michigan. Researchers focused on the five-year changes in property values, community assets, and tax rates, which can demonstrate the growth, investments, and cost of doing business within the community. For example, over the five-year period of 2018-2022, these communities increased their capital assets by an average of 3.42% per year by investments such as park and road improvements, new police and fire equipment, and water system enhancements. Further, these places are home to 87% of Michigan’s real commercial property and have 64% of the state’s total property value. Communities that have seen the strongest growth in business development over the past five years, while controlling the costs of doing business in town, are designated as five- and four-star communities.

Although accounting for less than 20 percent of the State’s cities and townships, the 277 communities analyzed are home to 71 percent of Michigan’s population and 86 percent of the state’s commercial property. “Each year, the eCities project aims to highlight the successes and continued commitment of cities and townships to grow business and support entrepreneurship within their communities,” said Kari Kowalski, iLabs project manager.