Thinking About Independence Township, Michigan? A Practical (and Slightly Funny) Guide

By Andrew McManamonPlaces To Live In Michigan

Introduction

If you’ve been researching places to live in northern Oakland County, Independence Township, Michigan tends to pop up pretty quickly—and for good reason. It offers a mix of lakes, parks, and established neighborhoods while still keeping everyday conveniences within reach. People often look here when they want space and scenery without going fully rural. That said, Independence Township isn’t a secret, and understanding what daily life actually looks like here helps set realistic expectations.

Thinking About Independence Township, Michigan? A Practical (and Slightly Funny) Guide

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Where Is Independence Township, Michigan Located?

Independence Township is located in northern Oakland County and surrounds the City of the Village of Clarkston. According to U.S. Census Bureau geographic data, the township sits along the I-75 corridor, providing relatively direct north–south access through southeast Michigan. Nearby communities include Waterford Township, Springfield Township, and Orion Township. This location places Independence Township within commuting distance of Auburn Hills, Pontiac, and other employment centers while maintaining a distinctly residential feel.

Cost of Living in Independence Township, Michigan

The cost of living in Independence Township is influenced largely by housing, transportation, and utilities. Based on U.S. Census Bureau American Community Survey data, owner-occupied housing values in this area tend to be higher than the Michigan statewide median. Utilities and transportation costs vary depending on home size, commuting distance, and whether a property uses municipal services or private well and septic systems. According to BestPlaces.net and Bureau of Labor Statistics regional data, overall living costs in Independence Township are generally above Michigan averages, driven primarily by housing prices rather than daily expenses.

Real Estate & Housing Overview

Homes in Independence Township range from mid-century subdivisions to newer construction and lakefront properties. Ranch-style homes, colonials, and contemporary designs are common, often on larger lots compared to more densely developed suburbs. According to U.S. Census Bureau housing data, much of the housing stock was built between the 1960s and early 2000s, with limited but ongoing new construction. Market activity tends to reflect broader Oakland County trends, with pricing influenced by lake access, neighborhood layout, and proximity to Clarkston amenities, as reflected in regional MLS summaries.

Property Taxes in Independence Township

Property taxes in Independence Township are calculated using taxable value and local millage rates that support schools, county services, libraries, and public safety. According to the Michigan Department of Treasury, taxable value increases are capped annually unless a property changes ownership. Millage rates can vary depending on the specific taxing authorities tied to a property, so exact tax amounts differ by location. Buyers and homeowners should always confirm current rates directly with Independence Township and Oakland County offices.

Things to Do & Lifestyle

Outdoor recreation is a major part of life in Independence Township. Independence Oaks County Park offers trails, beaches, and year-round activities, according to Oakland County Parks. Several inland lakes provide opportunities for boating and seasonal recreation. Nearby downtown Clarkston features local restaurants, shops, and community events hosted throughout the year, according to the Village of Clarkston. The overall lifestyle blends outdoor access with suburban conveniences, without a heavy commercial footprint inside the township itself.

Schools & Education (Neutral Framing)

Independence Township is primarily served by Clarkston Community Schools, with some areas zoned to neighboring districts. According to GreatSchools.org and Niche.com, the district offers a range of academic programs, extracurricular activities, and support services. Performance and resources vary by school, and residents are encouraged to review individual school profiles and district data when evaluating educational options.

Pros & Cons of Living in Independence Township

Pros

Access to lakes, parks, and preserved green space, per Oakland County Parks data
Convenient access to I-75 for regional travel
Variety of housing styles and lot sizes, according to U.S. Census Bureau data

Cons

Housing costs higher than Michigan averages, per Census and BestPlaces.net data
Limited commercial areas within the township itself
Traffic congestion near freeway access points during peak hours

Frequently Asked Questions About Living in Independence Township, Michigan

Is Independence Township considered suburban or rural? According to U.S. Census Bureau data, it is classified as suburban with lower density than inner-ring suburbs.
Does Independence Township have lakefront homes? Yes, several inland lakes offer waterfront properties, per Oakland County GIS data.
How far is Independence Township from Detroit? It is located in northern Oakland County along the I-75 corridor.
Are there parks in the township? Independence Oaks County Park is one of the largest nearby parks, per Oakland County Parks.
What types of homes are most common? Single-family homes on moderate to larger lots are most common.
Is there new construction? Limited new construction exists, typically small-scale or custom builds.
Are there public water and sewer services? Availability varies by neighborhood.
What school district serves the area? Clarkston Community Schools primarily serves the township.
Are property taxes uniform across the township? Taxes vary based on millage rates and taxable value.
Is downtown Clarkston part of the township? The Village of Clarkston is surrounded by Independence Township but is a separate municipality.

To Conclude:

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