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

By Andrew McManamonPlaces To Live In Michigan

Introduction

If you’re looking for wide-open space, shoreline access, and a quieter pace of life, Sanilac Township, Michigan may already be on your radar.

Located in Michigan’s Thumb region along Lake Huron, Sanilac Township offers a rural setting with agricultural land, waterfront views, and proximity to small harbor communities. It’s not a dense suburban environment — and that’s exactly why many people consider it.

In this guide, we’ll walk through location, cost of living, real estate, property taxes, schools, and lifestyle so you can decide whether Sanilac Township aligns with your long-term plans.

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

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Where Is Sanilac Township, Michigan Located?

Sanilac Township is located in Sanilac County in eastern Michigan, along the western shoreline of Lake Huron.

According to the U.S. Census Bureau, Sanilac Township is a civil township in Michigan’s Thumb region with a small population compared to urban areas. It sits northeast of the city of Sandusky (the county seat) and surrounds the Village of Port Sanilac.

Nearby communities include:

Sandusky (county seat)
Lexington (to the south along Lake Huron)
Croswell (southwest)

Major highway access comes primarily from M-46 and M-25, which run east-west and along the Lake Huron shoreline respectively, according to the Michigan Department of Transportation.

For commuters, travel times to larger employment centers such as Port Huron or the northern Detroit suburbs can range from 60–90 minutes depending on route and traffic.

Cost of Living in Sanilac Township, Michigan

Cost of living in rural townships like Sanilac Township is often influenced by housing, transportation, and utility expenses.

According to U.S. Census Bureau data for Sanilac County, median home values are generally lower than the Michigan statewide median. Niche.com reports that housing costs in many Thumb-region communities fall below state averages.

BestPlaces.net indicates that overall cost of living indices for Sanilac County are below the national average, particularly in housing categories.

Transportation costs may be higher for some residents due to longer driving distances to employment centers, while utility costs generally align with Michigan averages based on Bureau of Labor Statistics regional data.

Because Sanilac Township is rural, expenses can vary significantly depending on whether a property is waterfront, agricultural, or inland residential.

Real Estate & Housing Overview

Housing in Sanilac Township reflects its rural and shoreline setting.

Based on U.S. Census Bureau housing data for the township:

A significant portion of homes were built between the 1940s and 1980s
Owner-occupied housing makes up the majority of properties
Many properties sit on larger lots or acreage

You’ll commonly see:

Farmhouses and rural single-family homes
Lakefront cottages and seasonal properties along Lake Huron
Ranch-style homes on multi-acre parcels

New construction exists but is limited compared to fast-growing suburban counties. According to regional MLS data trends in Sanilac County, inventory levels tend to be lower, and waterfront properties may command higher price points than inland homes.

Market activity is generally steady but seasonal fluctuations are common in shoreline areas.

Property Taxes in Sanilac Township

Property taxes in Sanilac Township are calculated under Michigan’s property tax system.

Per the Michigan Department of Treasury, property taxes are based on taxable value multiplied by local millage rates approved by voters. Townships, counties, school districts, and other entities each levy millage rates.

Sanilac County publishes annual millage information through county and township offices. Michigan’s Proposal A limits annual increases in taxable value, except in certain circumstances, as outlined by the Michigan Department of Treasury.

Because millage rates vary and can change, buyers should verify current rates directly with Sanilac Township or Sanilac County before making purchase decisions.

Things to Do & Lifestyle

Sanilac Township’s lifestyle centers on open space and Lake Huron access.

Lake Huron provides boating, fishing, and shoreline recreation. The Michigan Department of Natural Resources lists multiple public access points and nearby parks within Sanilac County.

The nearby Village of Port Sanilac offers a marina and harbor access along Lake Huron, according to the Village of Port Sanilac’s official website.

Sanilac County parks provide additional recreational opportunities, including campgrounds and shoreline parks, as noted on the Sanilac County official website.

Daily life here tends to revolve around outdoor activities, small community events, and travel to nearby towns for shopping and services.

Schools & Education

Sanilac Township is primarily served by school districts within Sanilac County, including districts that serve the Port Sanilac and Sandusky areas.

According to GreatSchools.org, ratings and performance metrics vary by district and school.

Niche.com provides additional insight into academic performance, teacher ratings, and student experiences across Sanilac County districts.

As with any rural area, school attendance zones may cover larger geographic areas, so reviewing district boundary maps is recommended.

Pros & Cons of Living in Sanilac Township

Pros:

Direct access to Lake Huron shoreline (Michigan DNR)
Larger lot sizes and rural acreage (U.S. Census Bureau data)
Lower overall cost of living compared to national averages (BestPlaces.net)
Quiet environment with limited urban density
Access to county parks and marina facilities

Cons:

Limited retail and dining within township boundaries
Longer commute times to major employment centers
Seasonal fluctuations in shoreline property demand
Public transportation options are minimal

Frequently Asked Questions About Living in Sanilac Township, Michigan

Is Sanilac Township located on Lake Huron?

Yes. The township borders Lake Huron along Michigan’s eastern shoreline, according to Michigan state GIS mapping data.

What county is Sanilac Township in?

Sanilac Township is located in Sanilac County, Michigan, per the U.S. Census Bureau.

Are there waterfront homes in Sanilac Township?

Yes. Lake Huron shoreline properties are available, though inventory can vary seasonally according to regional MLS trends.

How far is Sanilac Township from Detroit?

Driving time to Detroit typically ranges from 90 minutes to two hours depending on route and traffic.

What is the population of Sanilac Township?

Population data is available through the U.S. Census Bureau and reflects a small, rural community compared to urban areas.

Are property taxes higher for lakefront homes?

Lakefront homes may have higher taxable values due to assessed market value, as property taxes are based on taxable value per the Michigan Department of Treasury.

Is Sanilac Township considered rural?

Yes. The U.S. Census Bureau classifies it as a civil township with low population density.

What school districts serve Sanilac Township?

School service depends on location within the township and may include districts serving Port Sanilac and surrounding communities, according to GreatSchools.org.

Are there public parks nearby?

Yes. Sanilac County operates parks and shoreline access points, according to the county’s official website.

Is new construction common in Sanilac Township?

New construction exists but at lower volumes than suburban counties, based on county-level building trends.

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.