Scio Township, Michigan: Best Neighborhood Pockets + Pros/Cons for Newcomers — Should You Move Here?

By Andrew McManamonPlaces To Live In Michigan

Introduction

Scio Township, Michigan sits just outside Ann Arbor, offering a blend of suburban convenience with pockets of rural charm. People consider moving here for spacious homes, quiet streets, and proximity to urban amenities without living directly in the city. This guide will help you understand what day-to-day life looks like in Scio Township and what to expect before making the move.

Scio Township, Michigan: Best Neighborhood Pockets + Pros/Cons for Newcomers — Should You Move Here?

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Where Is Scio Township, Michigan Located?

Scio Township is located in central Washtenaw County, immediately west of Ann Arbor. Based on U.S. Census Bureau data, it is bordered by Ann Arbor Township to the east, Lodi Township to the north, and Dexter Township to the west.

Major roads such as M-14, US-23, and nearby I-94 provide regional access to Ann Arbor, Ypsilanti, and Detroit. This location makes commuting feasible while maintaining a quieter, low-density lifestyle.

Cost of Living in Scio Township, Michigan

Housing is the primary factor in the cost of living for Scio Township. According to BestPlaces.net and Niche.com, home prices are generally higher than Michigan’s overall median, reflecting the proximity to Ann Arbor and the quality of local schools.
Utilities, transportation, and other household expenses are comparable to statewide averages, but commuting costs may be higher depending on work location and travel frequency. U.S. Census Bureau and Bureau of Labor Statistics data support these cost comparisons.

Real Estate & Housing Overview

Scio Township features a mix of single-family homes, suburban subdivisions, and larger-acreage properties. Common home styles include ranches, colonials, and modern builds.
Lot sizes vary from standard suburban plots to multi-acre parcels. According to U.S. Census Bureau housing data and regional MLS reports, most homes were built between the 1960s and 2000s, with newer construction ongoing in select neighborhoods. Market trends indicate steady activity without rapid fluctuations.

Property Taxes in Scio Township

Property taxes in Scio Township are determined by taxable value and local millage rates. Per the Michigan Department of Treasury, taxable value limits annual increases unless a property changes ownership.

Millage rates fluctuate based on township services and voter-approved levies. Homeowners should confirm rates with Scio Township or Washtenaw County for current information, as actual bills vary by property.

Things to Do & Lifestyle

Residents enjoy parks, trails, and outdoor recreation managed by Washtenaw County and the Michigan DNR. While Scio Township lacks a centralized downtown, nearby Ann Arbor and Dexter provide shopping, dining, and cultural events.

The township’s lifestyle blends quiet residential streets with easy access to urban amenities, community gatherings, and seasonal outdoor activities.

Schools & Education

Scio Township is served primarily by Ann Arbor Public Schools and Dexter Community Schools depending on location. According to GreatSchools.org and Niche.com, performance varies by school and grade level.

Families and newcomers often research district boundaries to determine which schools serve specific neighborhoods.

Pros & Cons of Living in Scio Township

Pros

Close proximity to Ann Arbor with suburban and rural feel
Spacious homes and larger lot sizes than the city
Access to parks, trails, and outdoor recreation
Low-density neighborhoods with quieter streets

Cons

Limited commercial and retail options within the township
Dependence on driving for most errands
Higher home prices compared to Michigan averages
Property taxes vary by neighborhood and services

Frequently Asked Questions About Living in Scio Township, Michigan

Is Scio Township suburban or rural? It is primarily suburban with rural pockets, per U.S. Census Bureau data.
Are there shopping options in the township? Limited; residents often go to Ann Arbor or Dexter.
How long is the commute to Ann Arbor? Commutes vary but are generally under 20 minutes.
What types of homes are common? Single-family homes, ranches, colonials, and modern builds are common.
Are larger lots available? Yes, many neighborhoods and rural areas offer large parcels.
Is new construction happening? Yes, selectively in newer developments.
Which school districts serve Scio Township? Ann Arbor Public Schools and Dexter Community Schools.
Are property taxes high? They depend on taxable value and millage rates, per the Michigan Department of Treasury.
Is public transportation available? Options are limited; most residents rely on personal vehicles.
Are there nearby parks? Yes, Washtenaw County and Michigan DNR-managed parks are accessible.

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.