COMMERCE, MI
COMMERCE, MI
Commerce Township, MI: lake life, trails, and nature-first living with easy access to Metro Detroit
HIGHLIGHTS
Commerce Township is a community in Oakland County located about 30 miles northwest of downtown Detroit. It borders Walled Lake and Wixom and also includes the Village of Wolverine Lake, giving residents a unique “best of both worlds” lifestyle: close enough for big-city entertainment and work commutes, but surrounded by lakes, trails, and protected parkland that make everyday life feel outdoorsy.
One of the biggest reasons people move to Commerce Township is the water. The township is known for its many lakes and for the Huron River, which flows through the area and helps shape the local landscape. If you’re the kind of person who likes weekend kayaking, sunset walks, or living near a trailhead, Commerce Township is a place worth knowing.
What Commerce Township is known for
1) Proud Lake State Recreation Area (a major outdoor anchor).
Commerce Township is strongly tied to Proud Lake State Recreation Area, a large protected recreation area known for hiking, nature views, and water recreation. Many residents build routines around it—morning walks, trail runs, birdwatching, or family weekends outside—because it feels like a “up north” escape without leaving Metro Detroit.
2) The Huron River and a landscape full of lakes.
Commerce Township is a water-centered community. The Huron River runs through the township, and the surrounding lakes create a lifestyle where boating, paddling, fishing, and lakefront views are part of the local identity. Areas like Union Lake and Wolverine Lake are especially well-known for that “lake town” feel.
3) Community pockets with distinct local identities.
Commerce Township is big enough to have areas residents refer to by name. You’ll often hear people talk about pockets like:
Union Lake
Wolverine Lake
Oakley Park
Glengary
These names matter because they often signal different vibes—closer-to-the-water living, more residential neighborhoods, or more nature-adjacent settings.
4) Trail access and outdoor activity culture.
If you love biking, running, and long walks, Commerce Township is a strong fit because outdoor recreation is woven into the community’s layout. Many residents prioritize living near parks, trails, lakes, and river access.
5) Schools and community convenience.
Commerce Township is served by Walled Lake Consolidated Schools and also includes areas served by a second district depending on where you live in the township. Walled Lake Consolidated Schools has three high schools—Walled Lake Central, Walled Lake Northern, and Walled Lake Western—all located in Commerce Township, which is a common reason families consider this area.
6) A nostalgic local landmark: the Commerce Drive-In.
Locals often mention the Commerce Drive-In as a piece of hometown history. While the original drive-in theater is no longer operating, the site and sign are still a recognizable “local landmark” that longtime residents love to talk about.
Living in Commerce Township: vibe, lifestyle, and who it fits best
Commerce Township tends to feel outdoorsy, family-friendly, and spacious, and it’s often a great fit for people who want:
A lake-and-trail lifestyle without leaving Metro Detroit
Weekend routines built around parks, river access, and nature areas
Neighborhoods that feel residential but still close to shopping and commuting routes
A community where “getting outside” is the default
Options ranging from lake-adjacent living to classic suburban neighborhoods
If you want more nature in your day-to-day life—without giving up convenience—Commerce Township is one of the best “nature-forward” suburbs in the region.
Real estate and home styles in Commerce Township
Because Commerce Township includes both lake communities and more traditional suburban neighborhoods, the housing mix is broad. Buyers commonly find:
Lake-adjacent and lakefront homes near places like Union Lake and Wolverine Lake
Established subdivisions and newer neighborhood pockets throughout the township
A mix of ranches, colonials, and more modern builds depending on the area
Homes where location (water access, trail proximity, and park adjacency) can matter as much as the interior finishes
A helpful note for buyers: Commerce Township is a place where “micro-location” matters. Being near a specific lake, river access point, or recreation area can change your day-to-day lifestyle dramatically.
Things to do: nature days, lake time, and easy weekend plans
Commerce Township makes it easy to stay local and still feel like you did something:
Hike, walk, and explore at Proud Lake State Recreation Area
Spend time on or near the Huron River
Enjoy lake life around Union Lake and Wolverine Lake
Find local parks and trails for biking, running, and family time
Check out the local history and nostalgia around the Commerce Drive-In landmark
Frequently Asked Questions About Living in Commerce Township, MI
Is Commerce Township a good place to live?
It can be a great fit if you want a nature-forward suburb with lakes, river access, and parks, while still being close enough to Metro Detroit for commuting and entertainment.
What is Commerce Township known for?
Lakes, the Huron River, Proud Lake State Recreation Area, and an outdoorsy lifestyle that includes trails and water recreation.
Does Commerce Township include Wolverine Lake?
Yes. Commerce Township contains the Village of Wolverine Lake, which is a well-known local lake community.
What schools are in Commerce Township?
Commerce Township is served by Walled Lake Consolidated Schools in many areas, and school assignment can vary by location within the township. Walled Lake Central, Northern, and Western high schools are located in Commerce Township.
Is the Commerce Drive-In still open?
The original drive-in theater is not operating today, but it remains a well-known local landmark that residents still reference and appreciate.
Want to explore Commerce Township homes that match your lifestyle?
If you want to call Commerce Township, MI home, reach out to us to get started today!
Jim Shaffer and Associates, powered by Good Company, has been helping Metro Detroit move since 1999. The team of 51 agents and staff closes an average of 850 transactions each year and has surpassed $2 billion in career sales, making them the #1 team in Oakland County, the top team in Ferndale, Royal Oak, Oak Park, and Hazel Park, and one of the most trusted names in Metro Detroit real estate. Their reputation for results and client care has earned recognition from RealTrends America’s Best, Hour Detroit All Stars, and the Detroit Free Press Top Workplaces.
With over 2,700 Google reviews, 956 Zillow reviews, and decades of local experience, Jim Shaffer and Associates has built a legacy of trust and community in Ferndale and across Metro Detroit. Their team specializes in guiding first-time home buyers, first-time sellers, move-up buyers, and downsizers through every step of the process. From Oakland to Wayne and Macomb Counties and all surrounding cities, Jim Shaffer and Associates continues to set the standard for exceptional service and proven results in Southeast Michigan real estate.
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