Franklin, Michigan Relocation Guide: Vibe, Housing, Amenities & Daily Life

By Andrew McManamonPlaces To Live In Michigan

Introduction

Franklin, Michigan is a small village with a big sense of history. Known for its preserved buildings, wooded setting, and quiet streets, Franklin attracts people looking for a slower pace without being far from Metro Detroit conveniences. Living here is less about hustle and more about atmosphere, space, and long-term stability. If charm and calm matter to you, Franklin often ends up on the shortlist.

Franklin, Michigan Relocation Guide: Vibe, Housing, Amenities & Daily Life

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Where Is Franklin, Michigan Located?

Franklin is located in central Oakland County, just west of Southfield and north of Beverly Hills. The village sits roughly 20 miles northwest of downtown Detroit. According to U.S. Census Bureau geographic data, Franklin is positioned near major corridors like Telegraph Road and Northwestern Highway, making it accessible while still feeling tucked away from heavy traffic.

Cost of Living in Franklin, Michigan

The cost of living in Franklin is higher than the Michigan average, driven primarily by housing costs. According to BestPlaces.net, home values in Franklin exceed state medians, reflecting limited inventory and larger lot sizes. Utilities and transportation costs align closely with Oakland County averages, and most residents rely on personal vehicles due to limited public transit options. Overall expenses tend to mirror other low-density communities in central Oakland County (U.S. Census Bureau; Bureau of Labor Statistics; Niche.com).

Real Estate & Housing Overview

Franklin’s housing stock is dominated by single-family homes, including colonials, ranches, and custom-built residences. Many properties sit on wooded lots ranging from half an acre to multiple acres. According to U.S. Census Bureau housing data, much of the village’s housing was built prior to 1980, contributing to its established feel. New construction exists but is limited, often replacing older homes rather than expanding outward. Market activity tends to be steady, with fewer listings compared to nearby suburbs due to the village’s small size (Niche.com; local MLS data).

Property Taxes in Franklin, Michigan

Property taxes in Franklin are calculated using local millage rates that include village, county, school district, and special assessments. Rates vary depending on the specific property and school district boundaries. According to the Michigan Department of Treasury, Oakland County communities typically have higher effective tax rates than the state average, and Franklin generally follows that trend. Property tax bills should always be confirmed directly with local assessing offices.

Things to Do & Lifestyle

Franklin offers a quiet lifestyle centered around nature and preservation. The village features walking trails, access to the Huron River, and nearby parks maintained by the Village of Franklin and Oakland County. The historic downtown area includes landmarks, local businesses, and gathering spaces. Seasonal community events and nearby attractions like nature areas and cider mills add variety without the feel of a busy commercial district (Village of Franklin official sources; Michigan DNR).

Schools & Education (Neutral Framing)

Franklin is primarily served by the Birmingham Public Schools district. According to GreatSchools.org and Niche.com, schools serving the area offer a range of academic programs, extracurricular activities, and student-to-teacher ratios. Performance and ratings vary by school, and prospective residents often review publicly available data when evaluating educational options.

Pros & Cons of Living in Franklin, Michigan

Pros:

Historic village character and preserved architecture (Village of Franklin)
Larger residential lots and wooded surroundings (U.S. Census Bureau)
Quiet streets with limited through traffic (local government sources)
Proximity to major roads while maintaining separation from commercial areas (state GIS data)

Cons:

Higher housing costs compared to Michigan averages (BestPlaces.net)
Limited retail and dining within village boundaries (Village of Franklin)
Fewer housing options due to small geographic size (U.S. Census Bureau)
Dependence on driving for most errands and commuting (Niche.com)

Frequently Asked Questions About Living in Franklin, Michigan

How big is Franklin, Michigan?
- Franklin covers about 2.7 square miles (U.S. Census Bureau).
What is the population of Franklin?
- Approximately 3,200 residents (U.S. Census Bureau).
Is Franklin considered suburban or rural?
- It is classified as a suburban village with low-density development.
Are there parks in Franklin?
- Yes, including village-managed green spaces and nearby county parks (Village of Franklin; Michigan DNR).
How far is Franklin from Detroit?
- Roughly 20 miles, depending on route and traffic.
What types of homes are common?
- Single-family homes, many on large or wooded lots (Census data).
Is there a downtown area?
- Yes, a small historic village center with local landmarks.
Are property taxes high in Franklin?
- They are generally above the Michigan average (Michigan Department of Treasury).
Is public transportation available?
- Limited; most residents rely on personal vehicles (Niche.com).
Are there walking trails nearby?
- Yes, including trails near the Huron River (Michigan DNR).
Does Franklin have new construction homes?
- Limited, typically redevelopment rather than large subdivisions.
What school district serves Franklin?
- Birmingham Public Schools (GreatSchools.org).
Are there lakes nearby?
- Several lakes are accessible within Oakland County (Michigan DNR).
What is daily life like in Franklin?
- Quiet, residential, and centered around home and outdoor space.
Why do people move to Franklin?
- For its historic feel, privacy, and location within Oakland County.

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.