Brandon Township, Michigan Relocation Guide: Vibe, Housing, Amenities & Daily Life

By Andrew McManamonPlaces To Live In Michigan

Introduction

Brandon Township, Michigan, is a quiet, semi-rural community in Oakland County that appeals to those looking for a slower pace without giving up access to metro Detroit amenities. With wide open spaces, local parks, and close-knit neighborhoods, it offers a lifestyle different from busier suburban areas. While it provides tranquility, prospective residents should be aware that commuting and shopping options are more limited compared to urban centers.

Brandon Township, Michigan Relocation Guide: Vibe, Housing, Amenities & Daily Life

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Where Is Brandon Township, Michigan Located?

Brandon Township sits in southeastern Michigan’s Oakland County, bordered by cities such as Ortonville, Lake Orion, and Oxford. Major roads like M-15 and nearby I-75 make commuting to downtown Detroit or surrounding employment hubs possible, though traffic may extend travel times during peak hours.

Based on U.S. Census Bureau data, the township covers about 36 square miles of primarily residential, farmland, and green space areas.

Cost of Living in Brandon Township, Michigan

Housing accounts for the largest portion of living expenses in Brandon Township. Median home prices are slightly above the Michigan state average, reflecting the area’s spacious lots and newer homes mixed with older farmhouses.

Housing: Median home price ~$350,000–$375,000 (Niche.com)
Utilities: Typical for Oakland County; slightly higher than Michigan average due to larger properties
Transportation: Most residents rely on cars; commute times to Detroit average 35–45 minutes
According to BestPlaces.net, overall, the cost of living is above the national average, largely due to housing and transportation needs.

Real Estate & Housing Overview

Brandon Township offers a mix of housing styles including ranches, colonials, and custom-built modern homes. Lot sizes are often generous, ranging from 0.5 to 2 acres, with some properties maintaining small farm operations. Much of the housing stock was built between the 1970s and 2000s, with some new construction available.
MLS and Niche.com data indicate most homes are single-family residences, emphasizing space, privacy, and access to outdoor amenities.

Property Taxes in Brandon Township

Property taxes in Brandon Township reflect local, county, and school millage rates. Per the Michigan Department of Treasury, average residential millage in Oakland County ranges from 40–45 mills, but exact amounts vary by neighborhood and assessed property value. Residents are encouraged to consult the Brandon Township Assessor’s Office for current rates.

Things to Do & Lifestyle

Brandon Township offers outdoor recreation and community-oriented activities:

Parks & Trails: Brandon Park, Lake Oakland trails, and other open spaces provide walking, biking, and picnicking options (Michigan DNR)
Community Events: Seasonal fairs, local farmers markets, and township programs foster local engagement
Lakes & Rivers: Nearby bodies of water allow kayaking, fishing, and paddleboarding
Downtown & Shopping: Small-town shopping centers provide everyday necessities, while larger retail is accessible in surrounding towns

Schools & Education (Neutral Framing)

The township is served primarily by Brandon School District and nearby Lake Orion Schools. According to GreatSchools.org and Niche.com, schools in the area report above-average academic performance and offer a variety of extracurricular programs. Residents may also explore private and charter school options in neighboring communities.

Pros & Cons of Living in Brandon Township

Pros:

Quiet, semi-rural lifestyle with open spaces
Strong school performance metrics
Access to outdoor recreation including parks and lakes
Relatively low-density neighborhoods offering privacy

Cons:

Limited public transportation
Longer commute times to Detroit or other major employment centers
Housing costs above Michigan average
Limited shopping and entertainment within immediate township boundaries

Frequently Asked Questions About Living in Brandon Township, Michigan

What is the population of Brandon Township? – ~11,000 residents (U.S. Census Bureau)
Are there public transportation options? – Minimal; most residents rely on personal vehicles
What is the average home price? – ~$350,000–$375,000 (Niche.com)
How are the schools rated? – Above average academically (GreatSchools.org, Niche.com)
Are there parks or trails nearby? – Yes, including Brandon Park and Lake Oakland trails
How far is Brandon Township from Detroit? – Approximately 35–45 minutes
What types of homes are common? – Single-family homes, ranches, colonials, and newer custom builds
Is the area safe? – Lower crime rates compared to metro Detroit; check local police reports
Are there lakes or rivers? – Yes, nearby lakes offer recreational opportunities
What is the cost of living compared to Michigan average? – Slightly above average (BestPlaces.net)
How do property taxes compare? – Above state median (Michigan Department of Treasury)
Can I find new construction homes? – Yes, though limited compared to older housing stock
Are there community events? – Seasonal township events and markets
Are there grocery stores and shopping nearby? – Yes, small local centers and nearby towns
How long is the average commute to Detroit? – 35–45 minutes under normal traffic conditions

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.