Small Oakland County city Clawson is known as 'little city with a big heart'

Clawson, a 2.2-square-mile city in Oakland County with about 11,389 residents, has seen downtown revitalization and business growth while maintaining longtime traditions such as its Fourth of July celebration.

Clawson is a close-knit city in southern Oakland County often described by residents as a "little city with a big heart." The city covers about 2.2 square miles and has roughly 11,389 residents. Its downtown at 14 Mile Road and Livernois has seen renewed energy through a Main Street-style revitalization, with local shops, restored historic features and brick sidewalks. City officials attribute recent momentum to coordinated leadership and long-term planning. Key details: - Area and history: Clawson spans about 2.2 square miles, was incorporated as a village in 1920 and as a city in 1940, and has a population of approximately 11,389. - Downtown features: The Main Street district includes locally owned restaurants and shops, the restored Clawson Theatre marquee, the former theater now housing Three Cats Restaurant, and a 17-stop Downtown Clawson History Walk. - Development and businesses: Officials report more than 50 businesses opened since 2023; projects include Clawson Flats (56 units), new single-family homes on former school sites, and continued infill construction. - Parks and recreation: The city has six parks totaling about 45.8 acres; City Park (36.9 acres) includes athletic fields, courts, a skate park and a walking trail. - Community events: Clawson's Fourth of July celebration began in 1933 and continues to be a longtime tradition; other annual events include Down on Main Street Car Show, Clawson Fest and the Fall Claws N' Paws Festival. Summary: Clawson's downtown revitalization and recent openings have increased local business and housing activity and reinforced its reputation for walkability and community life. Planned and ongoing developments along Main Street and other projects are cited by city officials as the next phase of the city's momentum.