Things to Do in Troy, Michigan

Despite not having a “traditional downtown,” Troy more than makes up for it with entertainment, parks, and shopping that rival any city around.

• Somerset Collection: Michigan’s crown jewel for high-end shopping. Think Gucci, Louis Vuitton, and Apple Store heaven.
• Oakland Mall: The more budget-friendly (and nostalgic) shopping option.
• Stage Nature Center: 100 acres of trails, wildlife, and serenity.
• Boulan Park & Firefighters Park: Local favorites for sports, fishing, and relaxing.
• Troy Family Aquatic Center & Red Oaks Waterpark: For the days when summer actually lasts more than a week.
• Sanctuary Lake & Sylvan Glen Golf Courses: Scenic, well-kept, and challenging enough to make you lose a few balls.

Summary: Whether you’re into shopping, nature, or just people-watching at Somerset, Troy has something for everyone—and then some.

Troy’s Food Scene: Hidden Gems & Local Favorites

Troy might surprise you with its diverse culinary scene, especially its world-class Middle Eastern cuisine. The city’s large Lebanese, Iraqi, and Syrian communities have created some of the most authentic food in Michigan.

• La Saj & Cedar Grille: Unbeatable for shawarma, hummus, and grilled perfection.
• Mon Jin Lau: A Troy institution—sushi, cocktails, and vibes.
• Sedona Taphouse: Great craft beer lineup and upscale casual dining.
• Shield’s Pizza: Classic Detroit-style slices that never disappoint.

Summary: From authentic Middle Eastern dishes to Detroit-style comfort food, Troy’s restaurant lineup is reason enough to move here.

Jobs, Business, and the Economy in Troy

Think of Troy as Michigan’s unofficial corporate HQ. Major employers include Altair Engineering, Flagstar Bank, Kelly Services, and United Wholesale Mortgage (UWM) nearby. Over 50,000 people commute into Troy daily, fueling a strong local economy and a low 2.8% unemployment rate.

And while the traffic can make you question your life choices, the tradeoff is excellent public services, safe neighborhoods, and clean streets (by Michigan standards). Troy’s also a hotspot for remote workers and entrepreneurs thanks to its coworking spaces and business-friendly atmosphere.

Summary: Troy’s economy is booming—with diverse industries, stable jobs, and business growth making it one of Michigan’s most financially secure cities.

Cost of Living and Real Estate in Troy, Michigan

Let’s talk money. The median home price in Troy is about $464,000, nearly double the Michigan average of $250,000—but still lower than nearby Birmingham ($850K) or Bloomfield Hills ($600K).

Homes in Troy typically sell fast—within 30 days—and bidding wars are common. Expect well-kept subdivisions, top-ranked schools, and a growing number of new luxury townhomes and condos near Big Beaver Road.

If you’re after value and space, the areas near John R Road and Square Lake Road offer solid options for families who want a yard without losing proximity to work.

Summary: Troy’s housing market is competitive but balanced—offering upscale homes, strong resale value, and plenty of modern new builds.

Traffic, Commutes, and Transportation

Here’s the truth—Big Beaver Road traffic is a personality trait for Troy residents. Rush hour on I-75 and Crooks Road can be rough, so locals use alternate routes like Rochester Road or Coolidge Highway to stay sane.

Troy doesn’t have a downtown rail system, but its location means you’re only a short drive from Royal Oak, Birmingham, and Detroit—with easy access to major freeways.

Summary: Commuting in Troy can test your patience, but its central location and freeway access make it one of Metro Detroit’s most convenient hubs.

Cost of Living Extras (The Stuff No One Mentions)

• Auto insurance: Still among the highest in the U.S. (sorry).
• Utilities: Around the Michigan average.
• Home maintenance: Higher in older or larger properties.
• Winter costs: Snow removal, heating, and—of course—pothole repairs.

Summary: Troy’s cost of living is above average for Michigan but comes with high-quality schools, safety, and lifestyle perks that justify it.

Why People Love Living in Troy, Michigan

It’s simple—Troy checks all the boxes. It’s safe, clean, diverse, and packed with opportunity. Whether you’re raising a family, climbing the corporate ladder, or just want to be close to Detroit without living in it, Troy delivers.

Summary: Troy offers everything you want in a Michigan suburb—minus the small-town boredom and plus a ton of convenience.

FAQs About Living in Troy, Michigan

1. Is Troy, Michigan a good place to live?
Yes—Troy consistently ranks among Michigan’s safest, cleanest, and most desirable cities.

2. How far is Troy from Detroit?
Roughly 22 miles north—about a 25–30 minute drive, depending on traffic.

3. What is Troy known for?
Luxury shopping, top-rated schools, corporate offices, and a strong economy.

4. Are homes expensive in Troy?
Yes, but they hold their value. Median home prices hover around $460K, but proximity to top schools and low crime makes it worth it.

5. What’s the school system like?
Troy School District is one of Michigan’s best, with schools like Troy High and Athens High ranked highly statewide.

6. What’s the traffic really like in Troy?
Manageable if you know the backroads—Big Beaver Road is the main pain point during rush hour.

7. What are the best things to do in Troy?
Shopping at Somerset, hiking at Stage Nature Center, and dining your way through the city’s diverse food scene.

8. What jobs are available in Troy?
Automotive, finance, tech, and engineering dominate, with many corporate HQs located right in town.

9. Is Troy family-friendly?
Absolutely. It’s one of the top-rated cities in Michigan for families, thanks to great schools and low crime rates.

10. What’s the cost of living compared to nearby cities?
More than Michigan’s average but lower than Birmingham, Bloomfield Hills, and Novi.

CONTACT US!

Thinking about calling Troy home? I help people from all over the world move to, from, and within Michigan—and I love it. Whether it’s finding a quiet cul-de-sac or a luxury condo near Somerset, I’d be happy to help you make the move.