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

By Andrew McManamonPlaces To Live In Michigan

Introduction

Walled Lake, Michigan often catches people’s attention because, well, it actually has a lake—and it’s right in the middle of town. Located in Oakland County, this small city combines lake-centered living with everyday suburban convenience. If you’re thinking about moving here, this guide lays out what Walled Lake does well, where expectations should be realistic, and how it compares to nearby communities.

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

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Where Is Walled Lake, Michigan Located?

Walled Lake is located in western Oakland County and is surrounded by communities such as Novi, Commerce Township, and Wixom. According to U.S. Census Bureau geographic data, the city covers just under three square miles, making it compact and easy to navigate.

The city sits near major corridors including M-5, M-10 (Lodge Freeway), and I-96, offering commuter access to employment centers throughout Southeast Michigan. This location places Walled Lake within reasonable driving distance of Detroit, Novi, and Southfield, based on Michigan state GIS and MDOT mapping.

Cost of Living in Walled Lake, Michigan

The cost of living in Walled Lake is slightly higher than the Michigan average, with housing being the primary driver. According to U.S. Census Bureau American Community Survey data, median home values in Walled Lake are above statewide figures but generally lower than some neighboring Oakland County cities.
Utilities and transportation costs align closely with regional averages, according to Bureau of Labor Statistics data. Overall affordability falls in the mid-range for Oakland County, as reflected by BestPlaces.net and Niche.com comparisons.

Real Estate & Housing Overview

Walled Lake’s housing stock is largely made up of single-family homes, along with a smaller number of condos and townhomes. According to U.S. Census Bureau housing data, many homes were built between the 1950s and 1980s, with some newer infill development in recent years.
Lot sizes tend to be modest, reflecting the city’s compact layout. New construction opportunities are limited, and market activity is typically driven by resale inventory, according to regional MLS summaries cited by Niche.com.

Property Taxes in Walled Lake

Property taxes in Walled Lake include city, county, and school district millages. According to the Michigan Department of Treasury, Oakland County communities generally have higher millage rates than the Michigan average.

Actual tax amounts vary by assessed value, exemptions, and voter-approved millages. Buyers should verify current rates with the City of Walled Lake Assessor’s Office or Oakland County Equalization Department before making decisions.

Things to Do & Lifestyle

Life in Walled Lake often revolves around, unsurprisingly, Walled Lake itself. The lake allows boating and seasonal recreation, subject to city regulations, according to City of Walled Lake resources.

Local parks such as Hiram Sims Park provide green space, walking paths, and lake views. Nearby regional amenities, including parks and trails managed by the Michigan Department of Natural Resources, expand outdoor options beyond city limits.

The downtown area offers small businesses and dining, while larger shopping and entertainment options are available in nearby Novi and Commerce Township.

Schools & Education (Neutral Framing)

Walled Lake is served by Walled Lake Consolidated Schools. According to GreatSchools.org and Niche.com, school performance varies by individual building and program, and many residents evaluate specific offerings rather than district-wide averages.

Private and alternative education options are also available throughout Oakland County, providing additional choices depending on needs and preferences.

Pros & Cons of Living in Walled Lake

Pros

Direct access to a central inland lake
Compact city layout with nearby regional amenities
Established neighborhoods with mature trees
Convenient highway access

Cons

Limited new construction inventory
Smaller housing lots compared to some suburbs
Higher property taxes than Michigan averages
Fewer large commercial areas within city limits

Frequently Asked Questions About Living in Walled Lake, Michigan

Where is Walled Lake located? In western Oakland County, per U.S. Census Bureau data.
How big is Walled Lake? Just under three square miles, according to Census geographic data.
Is Walled Lake a city or township? It is an incorporated city.
Can residents use Walled Lake? Yes, access is regulated by the city, per local ordinances.
What highways are nearby? M-5, M-10, and I-96, according to MDOT maps.
Are there parks in Walled Lake? Yes, including city-managed parks like Hiram Sims Park.
What types of homes are common? Mostly single-family homes, per Census housing data.
Are property taxes high? Oakland County rates exceed Michigan averages, per Michigan Department of Treasury.
Is public transportation available? Limited regional service exists through SMART.
Does Walled Lake have a downtown? Yes, a small downtown with local businesses.
Is Walled Lake walkable? Walkability varies by neighborhood, according to Niche.com.
How far is Walled Lake from Detroit? Approximately 30 miles, based on state GIS data.

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.