Living in Hazel Park, Michigan: Pros, Cons, Cost of Living & Real Estate Snapshot

By Andrew McManamonPlaces To Live In Michigan

Introduction

Hazel Park, Michigan is often described as straightforward, accessible, and quietly convenient. It’s a smaller city in southern Oakland County that appeals to people who want proximity to Metro Detroit without the scale or pricing of larger neighboring communities. If you’re looking for a place that keeps things simple while still offering solid location advantages, Hazel Park is worth a closer look.

This guide covers the basics—location, cost of living, housing, schools, and everyday lifestyle—so you can decide if Hazel Park aligns with your long-term plans.

Living in Hazel Park, Michigan: Pros, Cons, Cost of Living & Real Estate Snapshot

Search For All Homes For Sale

See My Home's Current Value

Where Is Hazel Park, Michigan Located?

Hazel Park is located in southern Oakland County, directly north of Detroit. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, the city is part of the Detroit–Warren–Dearborn metropolitan area. It is bordered by Detroit to the south, Ferndale to the west, Madison Heights to the north, and Warren to the east.

Interstate 75 runs along the eastern edge of the city, providing direct north-south access through Metro Detroit. Interstate 696 is just a short drive north, offering east-west connectivity across the region. Based on Michigan state GIS and transportation data, this location makes Hazel Park relatively convenient for commuting to nearby employment centers.

Cost of Living in Hazel Park, Michigan

The cost of living in Hazel Park is generally lower than the Oakland County average and closer to statewide Michigan norms. Housing costs are the biggest factor, with home values and rents typically below those of nearby cities like Ferndale and Royal Oak. According to U.S. Census Bureau American Community Survey data, Hazel Park remains one of the more affordable municipalities in southern Oakland County.

Utilities and transportation costs align closely with Michigan averages, based on Bureau of Labor Statistics regional data. BestPlaces.net and Niche.com both indicate that Hazel Park’s overall cost structure appeals to residents seeking manageable expenses without leaving the Metro Detroit area.

Real Estate & Housing Overview

Hazel Park’s housing stock is predominantly made up of single-family homes built between the 1920s and 1960s. According to U.S. Census Bureau housing data, bungalows and ranch-style homes are the most common, often situated on modestly sized lots.

There is limited new construction, with most development focused on renovations, infill projects, or small multi-family properties. Market activity tends to follow broader Southeast Michigan trends rather than showing extreme fluctuations. Data from regional MLS summaries and Niche.com reflects steady buyer interest driven largely by location and affordability.

Property Taxes in Hazel Park

Property taxes in Hazel Park are calculated based on taxable value and local millage rates, consistent with Michigan law. The Michigan Department of Treasury outlines how taxable value increases are capped annually until a property transfers ownership.

Millage rates vary depending on voter-approved levies and specific property classifications. Hazel Park and Oakland County publish millage information publicly, and buyers should always verify taxes at the individual property level rather than relying on estimates.

Things to Do & Lifestyle

Hazel Park offers a low-key lifestyle with access to local parks, neighborhood amenities, and nearby entertainment options. The city maintains several public parks, including Green Acres Park, which features walking paths, sports fields, and open green space, according to the City of Hazel Park Parks & Recreation Department.

While Hazel Park does not have a traditional downtown core, it benefits from proximity to nearby commercial corridors in Ferndale and Madison Heights. The city also hosts local events and community activities throughout the year, organized by municipal departments and civic groups.

Schools & Education (Neutral Framing)

Hazel Park is served primarily by Hazel Park Schools. According to GreatSchools.org and Niche.com, the district offers a range of academic programs, with performance metrics varying by school and subject.

As with any district, families and residents often review specific school data, extracurricular offerings, and enrollment options when evaluating fit. Additional public and non-public school options are available in surrounding communities, based on Michigan Department of Education listings.

Pros & Cons of Living in Hazel Park

Pros

Central location within Metro Detroit
Lower housing costs compared to nearby Oakland County cities
Easy access to I-75 and I-696
Established neighborhoods with classic home styles

Cons

Limited new construction inventory
Smaller city footprint with fewer in-city amenities
Older housing stock may require updates
No traditional downtown district

Frequently Asked Questions About Living in Hazel Park, Michigan

Is Hazel Park part of Metro Detroit?

Yes. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, Hazel Park is part of the Detroit metropolitan area.

What county is Hazel Park in?

Hazel Park is located in Oakland County.

How close is Hazel Park to Detroit?

Hazel Park directly borders Detroit to the south, based on state GIS data.

Does Hazel Park have highway access?

Yes. Interstate 75 runs along the city’s eastern edge, with I-696 nearby.

What type of homes are common in Hazel Park?

Single-family bungalows and ranch homes are most common, per Census data.

Is Hazel Park more affordable than nearby cities?

Housing costs are generally lower than neighboring communities like Ferndale, according to Niche.com.

Are there parks in Hazel Park?

Yes. The city maintains multiple public parks, including Green Acres Park, per local government sources.

Does Hazel Park have public transportation?

Regional bus service is available through Metro Detroit transit providers.

Are property taxes high in Hazel Park?

Taxes are consistent with Oakland County averages, according to the Michigan Department of Treasury.

Is Hazel Park a newer city?

Most residential development occurred in the mid-20th century, based on historical housing records.

Does Hazel Park offer rental housing?

Yes. Rental options include apartments and single-family homes, per Census data.

Is Hazel Park walkable?

Walkability varies by neighborhood, with some areas more pedestrian-friendly than others, according to BestPlaces.net.

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.