Living in Tompkins Township, Michigan: Pros, Cons, Cost of Living & Real Estate Snapshot

By Andrew McManamonPlaces To Live In Michigan

Introduction

Tompkins Township, Michigan, offers a peaceful blend of rural living and easy access to nearby cities in Jackson County. People consider moving here for its quiet streets, open spaces, and sense of community that comes with small-town life. While it’s not an urban hub, Tompkins Township delivers a relaxed, practical lifestyle with room to enjoy nature and the outdoors.

Living in Tompkins Township, Michigan: Pros, Cons, Cost of Living & Real Estate Snapshot

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Where Is Tompkins Township, Michigan Located?

Tompkins Township is located in the southern part of Jackson County. It sits northeast of the city of Jackson, giving residents reasonable access to urban amenities while keeping the rural charm intact. I-94 is a short drive south, connecting residents to Ann Arbor, Detroit, and other major Michigan cities. Based on U.S. Census Bureau maps, the township includes farmland, residential neighborhoods, and a few commercial areas.

Cost of Living in Tompkins Township, Michigan

The cost of living in Tompkins Township is roughly on par with Michigan averages. Median home prices range from about $190,000 to $240,000 according to Niche.com. Utilities, transportation, and daily expenses are consistent with other Jackson County townships. Residents may find property taxes slightly lower than nearby urban areas, while grocery, healthcare, and miscellaneous costs align with state norms per BestPlaces.net.

Real Estate & Housing Overview

Housing in Tompkins Township includes a mix of ranch-style homes, two-story houses, and some newer construction. Typical lot sizes are larger than in cities, often giving homeowners space for gardens, workshops, or recreational use. Many homes were built in the 1970s and 1980s, with steady development in recent years. According to Niche.com, homes tend to stay on the market around 60–90 days, reflecting a stable local real estate environment.

Property Taxes in Tompkins Township

Property taxes follow Michigan’s millage system and are comparable to Jackson County averages. The Michigan Department of Treasury notes that local taxes support schools, roads, and township services. Exact taxes vary based on property assessment and location within the township, so prospective residents should check with the township assessor for precise figures.

Things to Do & Lifestyle

Tompkins Township provides residents with recreational and community options:

Parks and Trails: Local parks and nearby Jackson County recreation areas offer walking paths, nature observation, and outdoor activities. (Source: Michigan DNR)
Nearby Downtown Access: While Tompkins Township itself is small, the nearby city of Jackson offers dining, shopping, and cultural opportunities.
Community Events: Township-sponsored gatherings and county fairs allow residents to connect and celebrate local traditions.

Schools & Education

Students in Tompkins Township are served by multiple districts, including Jackson Public Schools and Northwest Community Schools, depending on location. Academic performance is in line with state averages. According to GreatSchools.org and Niche.com, the schools in the area benefit from small class sizes and community support.

Pros & Cons of Living in Tompkins Township

Pros:

Rural living with proximity to Jackson city
Larger lot sizes and variety of home styles
Access to parks, trails, and outdoor activities
Stable real estate market

Cons:

Limited local shopping and entertainment options
Dependence on personal vehicles for commuting
Smaller community may lack urban amenities

Frequently Asked Questions About Living in Tompkins Township, Michigan

What is the population of Tompkins Township? (~4,200 residents per U.S. Census Bureau)
How far is Tompkins Township from Detroit? (~85 miles)
What is the median home price? ($190,000–$240,000 per Niche.com)
Are there parks and outdoor activities? (Yes, Michigan DNR lists several)
How are the schools? (Good, based on GreatSchools.org and Niche.com)
What types of homes are common? (Ranch, two-story, and newer construction)
Are property taxes high? (Comparable to Jackson County averages, Michigan Dept. of Treasury)
Is there public transportation? (Limited; most residents drive)
Are groceries and daily necessities accessible? (Yes, nearby Jackson city and local stores)
Are there community events? (Yes, including township gatherings and county fairs)
How safe is the township? (Crime rates are below Michigan state average per local law enforcement)
Is the township growing? (Slow, steady growth per Census data)
Are lakes or water recreation options nearby? (Several small lakes in Jackson County)
Is it suitable for retirees? (Yes, due to quiet rural setting and proximity to 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.