If you drive north from Rochester Hills, there is a distinct moment where the scenery shifts. The commercial strips fade away, the tree canopy gets denser, and the driveways get significantly longer. Welcome to Oakland Township.
For years, this area was the quiet, rural cousin to the bustling luxury markets of Birmingham or Bloomfield Hills. But as we settle into early 2026, the secret is definitely out. Oakland Township has established itself as the premier destination for high-net-worth buyers who want land, privacy, and architectural grandeur without sacrificing access to top-tier amenities.
We aren’t just talking about a “subdivision” here and there. This township is defined by its commitment to “rural character.” Zoning laws strictly protect green space, often mandating lot sizes of one acre or more. It feels like a nature preserve—boasting over 1,500 acres of parkland—yet you are just a short drive from the dining scene on Main Street in Rochester.
With median sold prices trending well over $740,000 this year, the market here is competitive but rewarding. Whether you are relocating to metro Detroit for an executive role or just looking to upgrade your lifestyle, knowing the nuances of these specific neighborhoods is critical.
Let’s break down the top enclaves you need to know about.
The Pinnacle: Ultra-Luxury & Custom Estates
If you are looking for the absolute ceiling of the market—where price is secondary to prestige and privacy—you start your search at The Pinnacle.
This is widely considered the crown jewel of the township. The neighborhood is actually a collection of enclaves, including “The Heights” and “The Pinnacle” proper, sitting on some of the highest elevations in the county. You aren’t going to find cookie-cutter production homes here. This area is dominated by multi-million dollar custom estates, many of which were crafted by Moceri Homes or designed by renowned architects like Dominick Tringali.
The vibe here is undeniably resort-like but deeply private. As you drive through, you’ll see manicured landscaping that rivals a botanical garden, private gates, and homes that often feature indoor basketball courts, wine cellars, and multi-level infinity pools. It attracts C-suite executives, professional athletes, and buyers seeking a gated feel without the density of a country club.
From a numbers perspective, this is the heavyweight division.
- Price Range: Typically $2.5M – $5M+.
- Architecture: European-inspired chateaus, modern farmhouses, and massive brick-and-stone estates.
- Lot Sizes: Generally sprawling, offering significant distance between neighbors.
If you are exploring the luxury real estate market in Oakland County, this is the benchmark against which other high-end neighborhoods are measured.
Twin Lakes: Resort-Style Living on the Golf Course
For buyers who want their luxury home served with a side of social activity, Twin Lakes is usually the top contender.
While The Pinnacle is about privacy, Twin Lakes is about lifestyle. The community is built around the Twin Lakes Golf & Swim Club, which features 27 holes of championship golf. What makes this neighborhood unique in the township is that it offers a true “club” atmosphere right outside your front door. You don’t have to drive across town to get to the pool or the tennis courts—they are integral parts of the subdivision.
The housing stock here is impressive. Most homes were built in the 2000s and range from 3,000 to over 5,000 square feet. You’ll find high ceilings, finished walkout basements, and views that look out over the fairways or the community’s signature water features. It’s a very active community; on any given summer evening, you’ll see golf carts buzzing around and neighbors gathering at the clubhouse for dinner or events.
Here is a quick look at the market in Twin Lakes:
- Price Range: Approximately $900,000 – $3M, depending on golf course frontage and updates.
- Amenities: Clubhouse, pool, tennis, social events.
- Vibe: Social, manicured, and active.
If you are specifically looking for golf course homes in Oakland County, Twin Lakes offers a balance of play and privacy that is hard to beat.
Oakland Hunt: Modern Amenities & Community Connection
If you prefer newer construction and a neighborhood layout designed to foster interaction, Oakland Hunt is a massive draw.
Developed largely by builders like Lombardo, MJC, and Cranbrook, this community really came into its own from the late 2010s through today. It strikes a balance between “production luxury” and custom features. Because the homes are newer, you’re more likely to find the open floor plans, mudrooms, and modern aesthetics that define current design trends, without needing to do a full renovation immediately after closing.
The centerpiece here is the community clubhouse and pool. It serves as a social hub for the neighborhood, making it incredibly popular for buyers relocating from out of state who want to meet neighbors quickly. There are playgrounds and common areas that give it a distinct “subdivision” feel—which is actually somewhat rare in a township known for isolated acreage.
- Price Range: Resale homes often start near $1M, with new construction pushing $1.2M+.
- Key Feature: The community amenities (pool/clubhouse) are a major selling point.
- Construction: Late 2010s to present day.
It’s a top choice for those wanting to be in the Rochester Community Schools district while living in a home that feels brand new.
Goodison Place: Established Elegance & Nature
Ideally, some buyers want big luxury homes, but they don’t want the “new construction” look where the trees are still saplings. They want character. If that sounds like you, Goodison Place should be on your radar.
Located near the historic hamlet of Goodison (home to the famous Paint Creek Cider Mill), this neighborhood feels settled and serene. The homes were generally built in the late 1990s and early 2000s, meaning the landscaping has fully matured. You are surrounded by towering hardwoods and lush greenery that provides natural privacy screens between lots.
The biggest perk here is the location relative to nature. Residents have incredibly easy access to the Paint Creek Trail, an 8.9-mile linear park that is a haven for cyclists, runners, and walkers. Unlike many parts of Oakland Township where you have to drive everywhere, living here means you can bike to the cider mill for a donut on a Saturday morning.
- Price Range: Generally $850,000 – $1.2M.
- Lot Style: Heavily wooded and private.
- Lifestyle Perk: Walkability to the Paint Creek Trail.
For those looking for homes near Paint Creek Trail, Goodison Place offers the perfect blend of high-end housing and outdoor access.
Carrollton Hills: Prestige Among Rolling Hills
Another masterpiece by Moceri, Carrollton Hills is often cited for its stunning topography.
Oakland Township isn’t flat, and Carrollton Hills takes full advantage of the area’s natural rolling terrain. The streets wind through hills and valleys, creating interesting sightlines and allowing for walkout basements in many homes. The architecture here leans toward the timeless—think classic Colonials and Cape Cods with heavy use of brick and stone facades.
It sits in a sweet spot geographically, offering a relatively quick drive to Adams High School and Van Hoosen Middle School compared to the far northern reaches of the township. The atmosphere is dignified and quiet. It lacks the “resort club” noise of Twin Lakes but offers more architectural uniformity than some of the older rural roads.
- Price Range: Typically $1M – $1.8M.
- Vibe: Quiet, hilly, and architecturally consistent.
- Privacy: Many homes are situated on cul-de-sacs or back up to protected woodlands.
Living in Oakland Township: Schools, Taxes & Commute
Buying a home is about more than just the countertops and the curb appeal. When you are looking at living in Oakland Township MI, there are a few practical logistics you need to understand to make a smart decision.
The Schools: The primary draw for almost everyone here is the school district. The vast majority of the township is served by Rochester Community Schools, specifically feeding into highly rated high schools like Adams, Stoney Creek, and Rochester High. These schools are consistently ranked among the top in the state. However, district lines can be tricky near the borders (some edges might touch Lake Orion or Romeo districts), so always verify the specific address.
The Taxes: Here is the good news: The millage rate (tax rate) in Oakland Township is generally lower than in the neighboring City of Rochester or Rochester Hills. However, because the property values are so high (often double or triple the county average), your actual tax bill will still be significant. It’s a trade-off: you pay less per dollar of value, but you have a lot of value.
Water and Sewer (The Big Differentiator): If you are coming from a city, this is the biggest adjustment. The southern portion of the township often has access to municipal water and sewer. However, as you move north, you transition to private wells and septic systems.
- Don’t panic: Modern septic systems and wells in luxury homes are high-tech and reliable.
- The upside: No monthly water bill.
- The reality: You need to be aware of maintenance, and this is something we’d look at closely during inspections.
The Commute: There is no direct freeway access in the township. To get to I-75 or M-59, you have to drive south through Rochester Hills or west toward Lake Orion. You should plan for a 10 to 15-minute drive just to reach the highway ramp. For most residents, the privacy and peace are well worth the extra drive time, but it’s a factor to consider if you commute daily to Detroit.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Oakland Township have a downtown?
No, the township is intentionally designed without a commercial center to preserve its rural feel. Residents typically head to downtown Rochester (about a 10-15 minute drive) for high-end dining, boutique shopping, and seasonal events like the Big Bright Light Show. Nearby Lake Orion also offers a great downtown district for dining.
What is the most expensive neighborhood in Oakland Township?
As of 2026, The Pinnacle (including The Heights) consistently commands the highest prices, with estates frequently selling between $2.5 million and $5 million. It represents the top tier of the luxury market in the area.
Do homes in Oakland Township have city water and sewer?
It depends on the location. The southern subdivisions are more likely to be connected to municipal water and sewer services. However, the majority of the northern half of the township relies on private wells and septic systems, which is common for the large-lot “estate” zoning in that area.
