Is Manchester Township, Michigan a Good Place to Live? The Honest Local Breakdown

By Andrew McManamonPlaces To Live In Michigan

Introduction

Manchester Township, Michigan often comes up in conversations with people who want a quieter lifestyle without completely disconnecting from Southeast Michigan. It’s a place where open land, long drives, and a slower pace are part of daily life, and that’s exactly what draws many people here. If you’re researching whether Manchester Township fits your lifestyle, this guide is meant to give you a realistic, no-hype overview of what living here is actually like.

Is Manchester Township, Michigan a Good Place to Live? The Honest Local Breakdown

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Where Is Manchester Township, Michigan Located?

Manchester Township is located in the southwestern portion of Washtenaw County in Southeast Michigan. It sits west of the Village of Manchester and south of Sharon Township, with Lenawee County nearby. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, the township is largely rural and less densely populated than many other parts of Washtenaw County.

While Manchester Township doesn’t sit directly on a major interstate, residents commonly access M-52 and nearby highways to commute toward Ann Arbor, Jackson, or other surrounding communities, depending on work and lifestyle needs.

Cost of Living in Manchester Township, Michigan

The cost of living in Manchester Township is generally influenced by housing and transportation rather than dense commercial pricing. Based on U.S. Census Bureau and BestPlaces.net data, housing costs in rural townships like Manchester Township often differ from nearby urban areas, with more variation depending on lot size and home type.
Utilities and transportation costs can be slightly higher due to larger properties and longer driving distances, which is common in rural parts of Michigan. Overall, the cost of living is often comparable to or slightly below Michigan averages, depending on individual housing choices and commuting patterns, according to Bureau of Labor Statistics regional data.

Real Estate & Housing Overview

Homes in Manchester Township tend to reflect its rural character. According to U.S. Census Bureau housing data and Niche.com, the area includes single-family homes, farmhouses, and properties on larger parcels of land. Many homes were built between the 1970s and early 2000s, with some older properties and limited newer construction.
Lot sizes are typically larger than what you’ll find in nearby cities, and new construction exists but is not widespread. Market activity is generally steady rather than fast-paced, reflecting the township’s lower density and long-term ownership trends rather than short-term turnover.

Property Taxes in Manchester Township

Property taxes in Manchester Township are based on taxable value and local millage rates, which vary by property and any applicable assessments. According to the Michigan Department of Treasury, Michigan uses a capped taxable value system that limits annual increases unless ownership changes.

Actual tax amounts depend on the property’s assessed value and township-specific millages, so buyers should always verify current rates directly with Manchester Township or Washtenaw County before making decisions.

Things to Do & Lifestyle

Life in Manchester Township is centered around space, nature, and community-based activities. While the township itself is not built around a traditional downtown, residents often visit the nearby Village of Manchester for local shops and events.

Outdoor recreation is a major draw, with nearby parks, trails, and open land managed by local governments and the Michigan Department of Natural Resources. Seasonal community events, agricultural activities, and outdoor hobbies play a large role in everyday life for those who choose this area.

Schools & Education

Manchester Township is primarily served by Manchester Community Schools. According to GreatSchools.org and Niche.com, school performance data varies by grade level and category, and families often review academic programs, extracurriculars, and community involvement when researching options.

As with any district, individual experiences can differ, and reviewing multiple data sources is recommended for the most complete picture.

Pros & Cons of Living in Manchester Township

Pros

Larger lot sizes compared to urban areas
Rural setting with open space and lower density
Slower pace of life
Access to nearby villages and small-town amenities

Cons

Limited commercial services within the township
Longer commute times for some workplaces
Fewer housing options compared to cities
Limited public transportation availability

Frequently Asked Questions About Living in Manchester Township, Michigan

Is Manchester Township rural or suburban? According to U.S. Census Bureau classifications, it is considered rural.
How far is Manchester Township from Ann Arbor? Travel times vary, but it is commonly a 30–40 minute drive depending on route and traffic.
Are there zoning restrictions? Yes, zoning is managed by the township; details are available through Manchester Township offices.
Is there public transportation? Public transit options are limited in rural townships, per regional transit authorities.
Are there parks nearby? Yes, both local and state-managed outdoor spaces are accessible, according to Michigan DNR resources.
What types of homes are common? Single-family homes on larger lots are most common, per Census housing data.
Is new construction available? Limited new construction exists, but availability varies year to year.
How high are property taxes? Rates depend on taxable value and millage, per the Michigan Department of Treasury.
Is internet available? Availability varies by provider and location within the township.
Does Manchester Township have a downtown? No, but nearby Manchester Village provides local amenities.

To Conclude:

If you're looking to move to, from, or within the state of Michigan in one day or a million, I help people do just that and I love it as a Michigan Realtor. Please reach out anytime for help — I’m happy to be your go-to resource.