Erik Wright
Managing Broker & Founder
Troy is one of Oakland County’s largest and most practical places to buy a home: strong schools, a major business district, quick I-75 access and a wide range of 1960s–2000s neighborhoods. It doesn’t have a classic walkable downtown like Birmingham or Royal Oak, but buyers get more space for the money, newer homes on average and one of the most convenient commutes in Metro Detroit.
Troy at a glance
- County: Oakland
- Population (2020 Census): About 87,300
- Median sale price (12 months): [MLS]
- Average days on market: [MLS]
- Main school district: Troy School District (parts of Troy are served by neighboring districts, including Avondale, Birmingham and Warren Consolidated)
- Major employers and shopping: Big Beaver Road business corridor, Somerset Collection
Commute
Troy sits on I-75, with quick connections to M-59, I-696 and Big Beaver Road. That makes it one of the easiest bases for commuting to Detroit, Auburn Hills, Southfield and Royal Oak. Many residents also work in Troy itself, along the Big Beaver corridor. The Troy Transit Center offers Amtrak service on the line between Pontiac and Chicago.
Typical drive times from Troy (non-peak):
- Downtown Detroit: About 25–30 minutes
- Auburn Hills: About 10–15 minutes
- Birmingham: About 10 minutes
- Detroit Metro Airport: About 35–45 minutes
Schools
Troy School District is one of the most popular reasons families move here, with two main high schools, Troy High and Troy Athens. Because some Troy neighborhoods fall in other districts, always confirm the assignment for a specific address. Compare district data on MI School Data and read our guide to Oakland County’s top school districts.
Troy neighborhoods by area
- North Troy (north of Long Lake): Larger 1980s–2000s colonials, bigger lots and some luxury homes. Typical price range: [MLS]
- Central Troy (Big Beaver to Long Lake): 1970s–1980s colonials and ranches near parks and schools. Typical price range: [MLS]
- South Troy (south of Big Beaver): 1950s–1960s ranches and bi-levels, often the most affordable. Typical price range: [MLS]
- Condos and townhomes: Low-maintenance options near Big Beaver and Somerset. Typical price range: [MLS]
[Erik: add 2–3 named subdivisions buyers ask about, with one sentence each.]
Lifestyle
- Shopping and dining: Somerset Collection and the Big Beaver corridor anchor upscale shopping and restaurants.
- Parks and recreation: The Troy Community Center, Boulan Park, Firefighters Park and the Troy Historic Village. See the City of Troy for programs.
- Diversity: Troy is one of Michigan’s most diverse cities, with a wide range of international grocers, restaurants and cultural organizations.
The trade-offs
- No traditional downtown. Most errands require a car.
- Traffic on Big Beaver and I-75 during rush hour.
- Older homes in south Troy may need updates to mechanicals, windows and kitchens.
Want walkability with your Oakland County schools? Compare with Birmingham. Want more acreage and luxury? See Bloomfield Hills and West Bloomfield.
Buying or selling in Troy
Social House helps buyers find the right Troy neighborhood and school assignment, and helps sellers price against the right comps. See Troy homes for sale or get your Troy home value.
Troy, MI FAQ
Is Troy, MI a good place to live?
Yes. Troy offers well-regarded schools, a central location on I-75, major shopping and employers, and a wide range of homes. It lacks a traditional walkable downtown.
What school district is Troy, MI in?
Most of Troy is in Troy School District. Some neighborhoods are served by neighboring districts, so verify by address.
How far is Troy from downtown Detroit?
About 25–30 minutes by car without heavy traffic, via I-75.
What is the average home price in Troy, MI?
The median sale price over the last 12 months was [MLS].
