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

By Andrew McManamonPlaces To Live In Michigan

Introduction

Royal Oak Township, Michigan is one of the smallest municipalities in Oakland County, and it often surprises people when they realize exactly where it sits on the map. Tucked between Detroit, Oak Park, and the City of Royal Oak, this township is primarily residential and very location-driven. People considering a move here are usually focused on proximity, housing availability, and access to surrounding communities rather than a long list of local attractions.

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

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Where Is Royal Oak Township, Michigan Located?

Royal Oak Township is located in southern Oakland County and is bordered by Detroit to the south and east, Oak Park to the north, and the City of Royal Oak to the west. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, the township covers a compact geographic area entirely surrounded by other municipalities. Major routes such as I-696, M-10 (Lodge Freeway), and Woodward Avenue are all nearby, providing regional access throughout Metro Detroit, based on Michigan Department of Transportation mapping.

Cost of Living in Royal Oak Township, Michigan

The cost of living in Royal Oak Township is influenced mainly by housing and transportation. According to U.S. Census Bureau American Community Survey data, home values and rents in the township tend to be lower than Oakland County averages but closer to regional Metro Detroit norms. Transportation costs are generally consistent with urban and inner-ring suburban areas, based on Bureau of Labor Statistics data. Overall affordability reflects the township’s size and location, according to BestPlaces.net and Niche.com.

Real Estate & Housing Overview

Housing in Royal Oak Township consists almost entirely of single-family homes, with a smaller number of multi-unit properties. Common home styles include mid-century ranches and bungalows, many built between the 1940s and 1960s, according to U.S. Census Bureau housing data. Lot sizes are typically modest, reflecting the township’s compact footprint. New construction is very limited due to land constraints, and market activity tends to be steady rather than high-volume, based on regional MLS reporting.

Property Taxes in Royal Oak Township

Property taxes in Royal Oak Township are determined by taxable value and a combination of township, county, and school millages. According to the Michigan Department of Treasury, taxable value may increase after a property transfer due to uncapping. Millage rates vary by parcel and voter-approved levies. Current and property-specific tax information is available through Royal Oak Township’s official assessing resources.

Things to Do & Lifestyle

Royal Oak Township itself is primarily residential, with limited commercial or recreational destinations within its boundaries. For parks, dining, and entertainment, residents typically access nearby communities such as Royal Oak, Oak Park, and Detroit. Local green spaces and neighborhood parks provide basic outdoor options, while larger regional amenities are available within a short drive, according to local government and Oakland County resources.

Schools & Education (Neutral Framing)

Royal Oak Township is served by surrounding public school districts depending on location and enrollment arrangements. School performance varies by district and individual school. According to GreatSchools.org and Niche.com, ratings reflect a combination of test scores, academic growth, and community feedback. As with all areas, educational experiences can differ based on specific programs and resources.

Pros & Cons of Living in Royal Oak Township

Pros

Central location within Metro Detroit
Proximity to major highways and surrounding cities
Generally lower housing costs compared to much of Oakland County
Primarily residential with established neighborhoods

Cons

Very limited commercial and entertainment options within the township
Small geographic size with few housing choices at any given time
Minimal new construction
Reliance on neighboring cities for most amenities

Frequently Asked Questions About Living in Royal Oak Township, Michigan

What county is Royal Oak Township in? Oakland County, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.
Is Royal Oak Township the same as the City of Royal Oak? No, they are separate municipalities.
How big is Royal Oak Township? It is one of the smallest townships in Oakland County by area.
Is Royal Oak Township close to Detroit? Yes, it directly borders Detroit.
What highways are nearby? I-696, M-10, and Woodward Avenue are all close.
Are there parks in Royal Oak Township? There are small neighborhood parks, with larger options nearby.
Does the township have a downtown? No, most commercial areas are in neighboring cities.
Is public transportation available? Regional transit options exist nearby, depending on route.
Are there condos or apartments? Housing is primarily single-family homes with limited multi-unit options.
Is new housing being built? New construction is very limited due to land availability.

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.