Thinking About Orchard Lake, Michigan? A Practical (and Slightly Funny) Guide

By Andrew McManamonPlaces To Live In Michigan

Introduction

Orchard Lake, Michigan is one of those places people often hear about before they ever drive through it. It’s small, it’s scenic, and it’s almost entirely built around the lake that shares its name. For people researching Oakland County communities with a quieter, more residential feel, Orchard Lake tends to spark curiosity pretty quickly.

Living here isn’t about nightlife districts or packed event calendars. It’s about space, privacy, and a lakefront-centered environment that feels removed from the busier parts of Metro Detroit, even though they’re still close by.

Thinking About Orchard Lake, Michigan? A Practical (and Slightly Funny) Guide

Search For All Homes For Sale

See My Home's Current Value

Where Is Orchard Lake, Michigan Located?

Orchard Lake is located in western Oakland County, surrounded almost entirely by West Bloomfield Township. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, it is one of the smallest incorporated cities in Michigan by land area.

The city sits just west of Telegraph Road (US-24) and north of I-696, providing access to regional commuting routes without being directly adjacent to major highways. Nearby communities include West Bloomfield, Keego Harbor, Sylvan Lake, and Bloomfield Hills, making Orchard Lake well-positioned within the western Metro Detroit area.

Cost of Living in Orchard Lake, Michigan

The cost of living in Orchard Lake is higher than Michigan averages, driven primarily by housing values and property characteristics. According to U.S. Census Bureau American Community Survey data, Orchard Lake’s housing stock is largely owner-occupied and features larger homes, many with lake access or proximity.

Utilities and transportation costs align more closely with Oakland County norms rather than statewide averages, based on Bureau of Labor Statistics regional data. BestPlaces.net and Niche.com both indicate that Orchard Lake’s overall cost profile reflects its limited housing supply and unique geographic setting rather than day-to-day expenses.

Real Estate & Housing Overview

Orchard Lake has a very limited number of homes, and that scarcity shapes its real estate market. According to U.S. Census Bureau housing data, the city consists primarily of single-family residences, many built between the 1950s and 1980s, with some newer custom construction mixed in.

Home styles vary from mid-century ranches to large custom lakefront properties, typically on larger lots than those found in denser suburbs. New construction is rare due to the city’s size and existing development patterns. Based on regional MLS summaries and Niche.com housing insights, market activity here is typically low-volume but highly location-specific.

Property Taxes in Orchard Lake, Michigan

Property taxes in Orchard Lake follow Michigan’s taxable value system, with rates determined by local millages and voter-approved levies. According to the Michigan Department of Treasury, taxable value increases are capped annually unless a property changes ownership.

Because Orchard Lake is a small city, millage rates may differ slightly from surrounding townships. There are no guarantees regarding future tax levels, and buyers should always verify current figures through the City of Orchard Lake or Oakland County tax records.

Things to Do & Lifestyle

Life in Orchard Lake is closely tied to the water. The lake itself is the primary recreational feature, supporting activities like boating and lakeside relaxation where permitted. According to Michigan Department of Natural Resources lake data, Orchard Lake is one of Oakland County’s larger inland lakes.

The city does not have a traditional downtown or commercial corridor. Most shopping, dining, and entertainment needs are met in nearby West Bloomfield, Keego Harbor, or Bloomfield Hills. Community life in Orchard Lake is generally quiet and residential, with limited but locally organized civic activities, per city government sources.

Schools & Education (Neutral Framing)

Orchard Lake is served by surrounding public school districts, including West Bloomfield School District, depending on location. According to GreatSchools.org and Niche.com, schools in the area are evaluated using standardized academic performance data, student resources, and program offerings.

Educational experiences vary by school and district, and prospective residents are encouraged to review current data and boundaries directly through official district sources.

Pros & Cons of Living in Orchard Lake

Pros

Lake-centered setting with scenic views
Limited housing density
Central access to western Oakland County communities
Quiet, residential environment

Cons

Very limited housing inventory
Higher housing costs compared to state averages
No commercial or downtown district
Fewer municipal amenities due to city size

Frequently Asked Questions About Living in Orchard Lake, Michigan

Is Orchard Lake a city or a township?

Orchard Lake is an incorporated city, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

How big is Orchard Lake, Michigan?

It is one of Michigan’s smallest cities by land area, per Census Bureau geographic data.

Is Orchard Lake actually on a lake?

Yes. The city surrounds Orchard Lake, one of Oakland County’s inland lakes, according to Michigan DNR records.

Does Orchard Lake have public lake access?

Lake access is generally limited, with most access tied to private property, per local government sources.

What type of homes are common in Orchard Lake?

Single-family homes on larger lots are most common, based on Census housing data.

Is there new construction in Orchard Lake?

New construction is limited due to the city’s size and built-out nature.

What communities are near Orchard Lake?

West Bloomfield, Keego Harbor, Sylvan Lake, and Bloomfield Hills border or are nearby.

How far is Orchard Lake from Detroit?

Orchard Lake is approximately 20–25 miles northwest of downtown Detroit, depending on route, per state GIS data.

Are there shopping and dining options in Orchard Lake?

Most commercial services are located in nearby communities rather than within the city itself.

Where can I find official city information?

The City of Orchard Lake’s official website provides municipal resources and updates.

To Conclude:

If you're looking to move to, from, or within the state of Michigan in one day or a million, I help people do just that and I love it as a Michigan Realtor. Please reach out anytime for help — I’m happy to be your go-to resource.