Royal Oak, located in Oakland County, Michigan, is a vibrant suburban city known for its rich cultural scene, bustling downtown, and a mix of historic and modern architecture. With parks, restaurants, shops, and a strong sense of community, Royal Oak offers a desirable lifestyle for families, professionals, and retirees alike. This article explores the best residential areas in Royal Oak, highlighting their unique characteristics, housing options, and average prices.
Table of Contents
Downtown Royal Oak
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Downtown Royal Oak is a lively urban area that serves as the cultural heartbeat of the city. It features a wide array of restaurants, cafes, shops, and entertainment options, making it perfect for those who enjoy an active social life.
Characteristics of the Downtown Royal Oak
* Culture: Vibrant nightlife, art galleries, theaters, and local events.
* Transportation: Well-connected by public transportation; walking-friendly.
* Services: Grocery stores, pharmacies, boutiques, and various services.
* Environment: Energetic and hip, with a youthful demographic.
Housing Options in the Downtown Royal Oak
Condominiums, Apartments, Single-family homes.
Average Home Prices in the Downtown Royal Oak
* Buying: $200,000 – $400,000
* Renting: $1,200 – $2,200/month
Berkley Neighborhood
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The Berkley area is a quiet, family-friendly neighborhood characterized by tree-lined streets and a strong sense of community. It is ideal for families looking for a peaceful and safe environment.
Characteristics of the Berkley Neighborhood
* Culture: Local parks, community events, family-oriented activities.
* Transportation: Car-dependent, but close to public transit options.
* Services: Groceries, schools, and recreational facilities.
* Environment: Friendly, suburban, and relaxed.
Housing Options in the Berkley Neighborhood
Single-family homes, Townhouses.
Average Home Prices in the Berkley Neighborhood
* Buying: $250,000 – $450,000
* Renting: $1,600 – $2,400/month
Hart Plaza Neighborhood
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Hart Plaza is known for its spacious homes and proximity to parks. It has a diverse community and is popular with families, offering access to many amenities.
Characteristics of the Hart Plaza Neighborhood
* Culture: Diverse community, local events, and neighborhood gatherings.
* Transportation: Car is recommended for longer travels, some public transport access.
* Services: Local shops, parks, and schools.
* Environment: Community-oriented and welcoming.
Housing Options in the Hart Plaza Neighborhood
Single-family homes, Larger lots.
Average Home Prices in the Hart Plaza Neighborhood
* Buying: $280,000 – $500,000
* Renting: $1,800 – $2,600/month
Oakland Avenue Area
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This area boasts larger homes with spacious yards. It is known for its quiet streets and proximity to parks, making it great for outdoor enthusiasts.
Characteristics of the Oakland Avenue Area
* Culture: Outdoor activities, community parks, and gardening.
* Transportation: Primarily car-dependent.
* Services: Nearby grocery stores, schools, and healthcare facilities.
* Environment: Relaxed and suburban.
Housing Options in the Oakland Avenue Area
Single-family homes, Bigger properties.
Average Home Prices in the Oakland Avenue Area
* Buying: $300,000 – $550,000
* Renting: $1,900 – $2,800/month
North Royal Oak
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Known for its quiet residential atmosphere and family-friendly environment, North Royal Oak features a mix of older tradition style homes and new constructions.
Characteristics of the North Royal Oak
* Culture: Community events, local daycares, and schools.
* Transportation: Mostly car-dependent, with some public transit options.
* Services: Shopping areas, schools, and parks.
* Environment: Suburban and peaceful.
Housing Options in the North Royal Oak
Single-family homes, Duplexes.
Average Home Prices in the North Royal Oak
* Buying: $220,000 – $420,000
* Renting: $1,400 – $2,000/month
South Royal Oak
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This area provides a good balance of urban and suburban living with its proximity to downtown and local amenities. It is popular among young professionals and families.
Characteristics of the South Royal Oak
* Culture: Access to dining, nightlife, and neighborhoods activities.
* Transportation: Good access to public transport and biking paths.
* Services: Grocery stores, schools, and entertainment.
* Environment: Vibrant, with a mix of residential and commercial properties.
Housing Options in the South Royal Oak
Apartments, Single-family homes.
Average Home Prices in the South Royal Oak
* Buying: $230,000 – $450,000
* Renting: $1,500 – $2,300/month
Frequently Asked Questions About the Best Residential Areas in Royal Oak:
The best residential areas in Royal Oak include Downtown Royal Oak, Berkley Neighborhood, Hart Plaza Neighborhood, Oakland Avenue Area, North Royal Oak, and South Royal Oak.
Berkley Neighborhood and Hart Plaza Neighborhood are very family-friendly, offering community events and good schools.
The average price of a home in Royal Oak ranges from $200,000 to $550,000 depending on the neighborhood.
Yes, Royal Oak has several highly-rated public and private schools that are well-regarded in the community.
Public transportation is available but primarily car-dependent, with bus services connecting to nearby areas.
Royal Oak features grocery stores, shopping centers, parks, restaurants, and healthcare services.
Royal Oak is considered relatively affordable compared to other urban areas in Michigan, but prices can vary significantly by neighborhood.
Royal Oak has a diverse demographic, including young professionals, families, and retirees.
Yes, there are multiple parks and recreational facilities in Royal Oak that offer playgrounds, sports fields, and walking paths.
Downtown Royal Oak is known for its vibrant nightlife, including bars, live music venues, and restaurants.
Conclusion on the Best Residential Areas in Royal Oak:
Royal Oak, Michigan, offers a range of residential neighborhoods that cater to various lifestyles. From the energetic atmosphere of Downtown Royal Oak to the family-friendly Berkley and Hart Plaza areas, there is truly something for everyone. The city's strong sense of community, abundance of amenities, and access to public services make it an attractive place to live. When choosing a neighborhood, consider your lifestyle preferences, priorities in schooling, and desired amenities. Royal Oak combines the convenience of urban living with the charm of suburban life, providing an excellent quality of living for diverse residents.
About the Author
Published by:Eribert De Oliveira
Mechatronics Engineer and founder of Mi Inmueble Online, with a background in real estate. I combine technology and analysis to help you find the best areas to live.