Thinking about making a move to Rochester Hills and wondering what life is really like in the Auburn Road / Brooklands District? As a longtime local and neighbor, I can tell you this area is packed with character, community spirit, and plenty of little surprises that make it a great place to call home. Here’s what you’ll want to know.
Community Vibe: Welcoming, Diverse, and Down-to-Earth
The Auburn Road / Brooklands District—often just called Brooklands by longtimers—has a genuine “everyone knows your name” atmosphere. Bounded roughly by Auburn Road to the south, John R Road to the west, and Dequindre Road to the east, this is one of the oldest residential neighborhoods in Rochester Hills.
You’ll find a variety of people here: young families just starting out, retirees who’ve nurtured their gardens for decades, and newcomers drawn by affordability and community. Seasonal events like the Brooklands Family Fun Festival in Auburn Road Plaza Park make it easy to meet neighbors. There’s a sense of pride and a willingness to lend a hand—folks keep an eye on each other’s homes and show up for local school events, block parties, and charity runs.
Types of Housing: Classic, Affordable, and Full of Charm
One of the biggest draws of the Brooklands District is the variety of homes.
- You’ll see tidy ranches from the 1950s and 60s along Alice and Emmons, sturdy bungalows on Roselawn and Jewell, and a few updated colonials sprinkled in.
- Most lots are comfortable, with mature trees and manageable yards. Larger homes can be found closer to John R or north toward Hamlin, but the heart of the neighborhood is distinctly mid-century modest.
- Renovations are common—expect to see newly refreshed exteriors alongside lovingly preserved originals.
The area remains one of the most affordable pockets in Rochester Hills. While prices have risen, starter homes here are still much more attainable than the newer subdivisions farther north or east.
Walkability: Getting Around with Ease
Brooklands has a walkable, old-school layout with sidewalks and plenty of crosswalks—something you don’t always find in the suburbs. Auburn Road itself is a hub, with pocket parks, the family-owned Dairy Boy ice cream stand, and the local library branch all within a stroll. Many residents enjoy:
- Walking or biking to the shops and taco joints near Auburn and Dequindre
- Grabbing a breakfast sandwich at Brooklands Plaza
- Walking dogs or pushing strollers on quiet streets like Samoset and Lancelot
It’s the kind of neighborhood where you’ll spot front porch seating, kids on bikes, and neighbors greeting each other by name.
Schools and Family-Friendliness: Highly Regarded and Involved
Families are drawn to Brooklands because of its proximity to some great public schools. The district is served primarily by:
- Brooklands Elementary (on W. Auburn Road)
- Reuther Middle School (nearby on W. Auburn)
- Rochester High School (a short drive or bike ride to the north)
Brooklands Elementary, in particular, has a stellar reputation for its experienced staff and community involvement. The “walking school bus” is a neighborhood tradition: parents and kids meet up to walk to class together.
With playgrounds, after-school programs, and numerous family-friendly events—like community Halloween walks or spring egg hunts—the area is a standout choice for those with young children.
Parks and Green Spaces: Room to Roam
Living here means easy access to several well-loved parks and trails:
- Brooklands Plaza Park: Small, but with a splash pad, playground equipment, shaded benches, and frequent community events—right on Auburn Road.
- Avon Nature Study Area: Just east on Dequindre, this underrated spot features forested trails, ponds, and frequent wildlife sightings.
- Spencer Park: A quick drive or bike ride north brings you to this expansive lake, fishing dock, sandy beach, and nature trails.
There are abundant sidewalks and bike routes, and many locals head out daily for a walk, jog, or dog stroll. In the fall, neighbors gather for leaf piles and tag games; in summer, impromptu block parties spring up when the weather’s fine.
Safety: A Trustworthy, Watchful Community
Brooklands benefits from a low crime rate and an active neighborhood watch. Rochester Hills police frequently patrol the area, and the tight-knit vibe means neighbors notice when something’s amiss.
Streetlights illuminate residential blocks, and most homes are set back from the street, providing privacy and safety for kids playing outside. Annual safety talks at Brooklands Elementary and community forums keep residents aware and engaged.
Proximity to Downtown and Major Employers: Everything Within Reach
Compared to some sprawling Michigan suburbs, Brooklands is uniquely well-situated:
- Downtown Rochester, with its boutiques, restaurants, and seasonal farmer’s market, is less than 10 minutes away by car or about a 20-minute bike ride up Auburn Road.
- There’s easy access to I-75, M-59, and John R Road for commutes to Troy, Auburn Hills, or Detroit-area offices (including the tech and auto firms around Walton and Opdyke).
- Major grocers, pharmacies, and healthcare providers are all within a 5-minute drive—no endless trips across town required.
For residents, this means balancing suburbia’s peace with big-city convenience.
What Residents Love Most
Ask anyone who’s lived in Brooklands for a while and you’ll hear a few things over and over:
- The friendliness of the people—neighbors wave, kids play, and there’s a genuine community feel
- The “walk-everywhere” culture, from parks to donut shops to the library
- The diversity—of ages, backgrounds, and house styles
- The affordable, unpretentious homes with real yards and room to grow
- The constant improvements: new playgrounds, updated sidewalks, and beautification projects
Ultimately, the Auburn Road / Brooklands District is a place where people put down roots. Whether you’re a first-time buyer, a growing family, or someone seeking a close-knit, accessible community, this neighborhood offers true Rochester Hills character without the sticker shock. It’s got just the right mix of old-school charm and modern convenience—perfect for those who value both tradition and community spirit.