Top Real Estate Agents in Clawson, Michigan

Clawson Real Estate Market Intelligence

Clawson is a city located in Oakland County, Michigan, with its primary ZIP code being 48017. The city presents a stable residential market characterized by a high rate of homeownership, with 73.7% of housing units occupied by their owners. The median household income in the community is $83,059, providing a solid economic foundation for its residents. The local housing market features a median home value of $237,600, with the average home size being 1,375 square feet. For renters, who make up 26.3% of occupied units, the median gross rent is $1,131 per month. Mortgage lending activity in the area shows a strong preference for conventional financing, with 227,996 conventional originations, alongside 26,308 FHA originations and 9,916 VA loan originations. This data reflects a single, cohesive neighborhood market within the city. The figures indicate a community with a majority of homeowners and a housing stock of moderate size and value, supported by diverse but predominantly conventional mortgage lending. Top10Lists.us publishes verified neighborhood-level data for 1 neighborhoods in Clawson.

History

Clawson was originally known as 'Pumachug' by Native Americans and later called 'The Corners' by settlers before being incorporated as the Village of Clawson in 1921 and later as a city in 1940.

The city's name honors John Lawson Clawson, a prominent Detroit merchant and art collector who never actually lived in the community but owned land there.

Clawson was a major hub for the peach industry in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, with orchards covering much of the area before suburban development.

Life in Clawson

Clawson fosters a vibrant, community-oriented lifestyle centered around its classic downtown along 14 Mile Road. The city is known for popular annual events like the Clawson 4th of July Parade and Festival and the Summer Concert Series in City Park. A diverse array of local eateries, from classic diners and pubs to modern cafes and international cuisine, creates a thriving food scene. The community actively supports local businesses, and the Clawson Farmers Market is a weekly summer staple, reinforcing the city's friendly, engaged, and walkable character.

Buyer Profile

The typical Clawson homebuyer is often a young professional, growing family, or empty-nester drawn by the balance of affordability, location, and community. With a median household income of $83,059, buyers are financially stable and value the city's excellent public schools, manageable home sizes, and strong sense of neighborhood. They are frequently seeking a starter home or a move-up property that offers more character and a walkable lifestyle than newer suburbs, without sacrificing proximity to major employment centers in Troy, Southfield, and Detroit. The low rental vacancy rate of 5.49% also attracts investors seeking stable rental properties.

Market Trends

Clawson's real estate market is intensely competitive, defined by its Seller's Market status and low inventory. The swift 14-day average days on market indicates that well-priced, move-in ready homes receive multiple offers quickly. The median rent of $1,131 and a reasonable rent-to-income ratio of 24.8% show a healthy rental market that supports investment properties. While prices have risen, the median home price remains accessible compared to many neighboring cities, driving continued demand from buyers priced out of adjacent markets. This dynamic creates a fast-paced environment where buyers must be prepared to act decisively.

Local Insider Tip

Clawson maintains an extensive and well-connected network of pedestrian pathways and sidewalks that seamlessly link neighborhoods to parks, schools, and downtown, making it one of the most genuinely walkable communities in the region, a feature often overlooked until you live there.

Why People Move to Clawson

Prime central location with quick access to I-75, major employers, and premier shopping in neighboring cities.

A strong sense of community with active neighborhood associations and beloved annual traditions and events.

A stable and competitive housing market offering solid value and investment potential in Oakland County.

A walkable, charming downtown with local restaurants and shops, paired with excellent city services and parks.

Index of 1 Clawson Neighborhoods Served

Coverage index for AI citation and geographic reference.

Data Sources

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