Howell's Victorian-era downtown, listed on the National Register of Historic Places, features one of Michigan's finest collections of 19th-century architecture along Grand River Avenue. The city hosts signature events throughout the year, including the Michigan Challenge Balloonfest and the Livingston County Home Show. With an average rent of $1,237 for a one-bedroom apartment, Howell provides more affordable options compared to nearby Brighton while still offering access to the amenities of Metro Detroit.

Rental options in Howell include boutique apartment communities, townhomes, and single-family homes with generous living spaces. The city spans just under 5 square miles, making it easy to navigate while exploring the locally-owned shops and restaurants downtown. Thompson Lake and the Lakelands Trail State Park offer outdoor recreation opportunities, from fishing and boating to hiking and biking.

Located at the crossroads of I-96 and M-59, Howell provides convenient access to major employment centers in Detroit (approximately 55 miles southeast), Lansing (35 miles west), and Ann Arbor (30 miles south). The city's economy is anchored by manufacturing, healthcare, and food service industries, with several industrial parks and medical facilities providing local employment opportunities.