Metro Detroit / Southeast Michigan
Royal Oak, Michigan
City
Walkable downtown, farmers market and the Detroit Zoo
Royal Oak is a close-in Oakland County suburb with one of the region's most walkable downtowns, built around Main Street and the farmers market.
History & Local Character
Royal Oak grew as a streetcar suburb of Detroit, and its 1920s commercial core survives as a dense restaurant and entertainment district.
Housing & Real Estate
Housing ranges from 1920s bungalows and Tudor homes near downtown to newer condominiums and apartments.
Restaurants & Shopping
Main Street and the surrounding blocks hold a dense mix of restaurants, breweries, coffee shops and bars.
Schools & Education
Royal Oak Schools serves the city, with several private and parochial options nearby.
Parks & Recreation
The Detroit Zoo's grounds, Memorial Park and Tenhave Woods give residents open space and trails.
Transportation & Accessibility
Woodward Avenue, I-696 and I-75 serve the city, with downtown Detroit about 20 minutes south.
Local Businesses
Royal Oak Farmers MarketMain Street restaurantsIndependent boutiquesLocal breweries
No businesses are listed in Royal Oak yet. Add your business to be the first.
Nearby Attractions
- Detroit Zoo
- Royal Oak Farmers Market
- Detroit Institute of Arts
- Ferndale's downtown
Advantages & Considerations
Advantages
- Highly walkable downtown and farmers market
- Close to Detroit's cultural amenities
- Strong rental and resale demand
Considerations
- High housing costs for the region
- Busy nightlife on weekend evenings
- Limited on-street parking downtown
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Detroit Zoo in Royal Oak?
Yes. The Detroit Zoo sits at Woodward and Ten Mile in Royal Oak, not in the city of Detroit.
Is Royal Oak walkable?
Downtown Royal Oak around Main Street is walkable, though most of the city's residential streets require a car for daily errands.