Relocating to Lake Orion, Michigan: Your Complete Moving Guide

If you're considering a move to Lake Orion, Michigan — congratulations on finding one of Oakland County's most beloved communities. Known for its stunning lake, vibrant downtown, outstanding schools, and a lifestyle that lives up to its motto — "Where Living is a Vacation" — Lake Orion is a place people move to and never want to leave. I'm Leila Modetz with eXp Realty, and this guide will prepare you for everything about life in Lake Orion.

Why Are People Moving to Lake Orion, Michigan?

• Lake Orion Community Schools — ranked #38 of 334 best school suburbs in Michigan
• Lake Orion itself — 506+ acres of all-sports lake with a vibrant waterfront community
• Walkable, charming downtown with locally owned shops and restaurants
• 50+ miles of trails including the Polly Ann Trail, Paint Creek Trail, and Iron Belle Trail
• Strong local business culture — residents shop local by choice, not obligation
• Family-friendly atmosphere with year-round events and festivals
• 40 minutes from downtown Detroit — perfect for hybrid commuters
• Canterbury Village — a unique, historic shopping destination nearby

Lake Orion Housing: What to Expect

Lakefront Properties: Homes on Lake Orion itself — including island properties — command premium prices and represent some of the most sought-after real estate in all of Oakland County. Lakefront and lake-access properties offer a true four-season waterfront lifestyle.

Village Homes: The Village of Lake Orion offers charming, walkable neighborhood living with access to the downtown, parks, and lake amenities.

Orion Township Subdivisions: Surrounding the village, Orion Township offers a wide range of subdivisions at varying price points — ideal for families seeking great schools without the lakefront premium.

Rural & Acreage: The outer areas of Orion Township offer larger lots and more private settings for buyers wanting space.

Getting Around Lake Orion

By Car: M-24 (Lapeer Road) / Park Boulevard is the main corridor through Lake Orion. I-75 is easily accessible to the south for regional travel.

Commute to Auburn Hills: Approximately 15 minutes south — home to multiple major employers.

Commute to Detroit: Approximately 40 minutes via M-24 and I-75.

Trail Commuting: Lake Orion's extensive trail network means some residents actually walk or bike to shops, restaurants, and the lakefront.

Things to Do Year-Round in Lake Orion

Summer: Boating, water skiing, fishing, Dragon on the Lake Festival, concerts, dining on the lake, exploring Canterbury Village

Fall: Hiking and biking on the trail system, fall foliage, Shop Small Saturday, community events

Winter: Ice fishing, skating, the legendary Holiday Lighted Parade (2nd largest in the nation!), cozy downtown dining

Spring: Trail access opens up, local business events, restaurant week in late June

Lake Orion New Resident Checklist

• Update your address with USPS, bank, employer, and subscriptions
• Register vehicle with Michigan Secretary of State
• Get a Michigan driver's license within 30 days of residency
• Register children with Lake Orion Community Schools
• Set up utilities — DTE Energy, Consumers Energy, internet
• Register to vote in Oakland County
• Find a local doctor, dentist, and healthcare providers
• Get a boat slip or storage if applicable (contact Orion Township for marina info)
• Explore downtown Lake Orion — walk to the lake and the village
• Join the Lake Orion Community Schools social groups and Nextdoor
• Attend the Dragon on the Lake Festival or Holiday Parade your first year

Contact Leila Modetz | eXp Realty | Oxford • Lake Orion • Metamora, Michigan