Leonard, Michigan: Best Neighborhood Pockets + Pros/Cons for Newcomers — Should You Move Here?

By Andrew McManamonPlaces To Live In Michigan

Introduction

Leonard, Michigan isn’t the kind of place most people stumble upon accidentally — and that’s part of its appeal. Tucked into northern Oakland County, Leonard attracts buyers looking for more space, fewer crowds, and a slower daily pace while staying within reach of larger towns. Before you decide whether it’s the right move, it helps to understand how Leonard actually functions day to day.

Leonard, Michigan: Best Neighborhood Pockets + Pros/Cons for Newcomers — Should You Move Here?

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Where Is Leonard, Michigan Located?

Leonard is an unincorporated community located within Addison Township in northern Oakland County. It sits near the border of Oakland and Lapeer counties, approximately 45 miles north of downtown Detroit. M-24 (Lapeer Road) is the primary north–south corridor serving the area, connecting Leonard to Oxford, Lake Orion, and Pontiac. According to U.S. Census Bureau geographic data, Leonard is part of the Detroit–Warren–Dearborn Combined Statistical Area, despite its rural setting.

Cost of Living in Leonard, Michigan

Leonard’s cost of living is influenced heavily by housing and transportation. Based on U.S. Census Bureau American Community Survey data for Addison Township, housing costs are generally lower than many southern Oakland County communities but can vary widely depending on acreage and home type. Transportation costs tend to be higher due to limited services and longer driving distances, according to Bureau of Labor Statistics regional data. BestPlaces.net indicates that overall living costs are close to Michigan averages, with variability driven by property characteristics rather than density.

Real Estate & Housing Overview

Homes in Leonard are typically detached single-family residences, many on larger lots or acreage. Common styles include ranch, farmhouse-inspired designs, and custom-built homes. According to U.S. Census Bureau housing data for Addison Township, much of the housing stock was built between the 1970s and early 2000s, with some older homes and limited newer construction. New builds do occur but are generally custom or small-scale developments rather than large subdivisions, per local MLS summaries and Niche.com housing insights.

Property Taxes in Leonard

Property taxes in Leonard follow Michigan’s taxable value system and are assessed through Addison Township and Oakland County. According to the Michigan Department of Treasury, taxable value increases are capped annually unless ownership changes. Properties with larger parcels or outbuildings may see higher tax bills due to assessed value rather than millage rate differences. Buyers should verify current rates directly with Addison Township and the Oakland County Equalization Division.

Things to Do & Lifestyle

Leonard’s lifestyle is centered around outdoor space and quiet surroundings rather than commercial density. Residents have access to nearby Oakland County Parks, including Addison Oaks County Park, which offers trails, camping, and seasonal recreation, according to Oakland County Parks. The Paint Creek Trail provides regional walking and biking access, per Michigan DNR resources. Dining, retail, and entertainment options are typically accessed in nearby Oxford, Lake Orion, or Rochester.

Schools & Education (Neutral Framing)

Leonard is served by Lake Orion Community Schools and Oxford Community Schools, depending on location within Addison Township. Performance metrics vary by school and year. According to GreatSchools.org and Niche.com, district ratings and test scores fall within ranges comparable to other Oakland County districts. Reviewing the most current data directly from these sources is recommended.

Pros & Cons of Living in Leonard

Pros:

Larger lot sizes and open space
Lower housing density than most of Oakland County
Access to county parks and trails
Proximity to Oxford and Lake Orion amenities

Cons:

Limited retail and dining within the immediate area
Longer commute times for many workplaces
Minimal public transportation options
Fewer housing inventory choices at any given time

Frequently Asked Questions About Living in Leonard, Michigan

Is Leonard a city or town? Leonard is an unincorporated community within Addison Township, according to the State of Michigan.
What county is Leonard in? Oakland County.
How far is Leonard from Detroit? About 45 miles, depending on route.
What highways serve Leonard? M-24 (Lapeer Road) is the primary corridor.
Are there lakes nearby? Several inland lakes are located within a short drive, per Michigan DNR data.
Is Leonard rural or suburban? Leonard is considered rural in character, based on Census land use patterns.
Are there parks nearby? Yes, including Addison Oaks County Park.
What types of homes are common? Detached single-family homes on larger parcels, per Census data.
Is new construction available? Limited, primarily custom or small-scale builds, per MLS data.
How are property taxes determined? Based on taxable value and local millages, per Michigan Department of Treasury.
Is public transportation available? Options are very limited; most residents rely on personal vehicles.
Where do residents shop and dine? Primarily in nearby Oxford, Lake Orion, or Rochester.

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.