Union Township (Branch County), Michigan: What It’s Like to Live Here (Cost, Commute, Community & More)

By Andrew McManamonPlaces To Live In Michigan

Introduction

If you’re looking for a quieter pace of life in southern Michigan, Union Township in Branch County is a place many people begin exploring.

This township sits just outside the city of Coldwater and offers a mix of rural countryside, lakefront communities, and small-town accessibility. For some buyers, the appeal is simple: more space, access to lakes, and proximity to nearby cities without the density of larger metro areas.

Like any community, living in Union Township comes with advantages and trade-offs. Understanding the cost of living, real estate options, property taxes, schools, and everyday lifestyle can help determine whether it fits your goals.

Let’s take a closer look.

Union Township (Branch County), Michigan: What It’s Like to Live Here (Cost, Commute, Community & More)

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Where Is Union Township, Michigan Located?

Union Township is located in Branch County in south-central Michigan, very close to the Michigan–Indiana border.

According to the U.S. Census Bureau, the township sits immediately north of the city of Coldwater, which serves as the county seat of Branch County.

Geographically, Union Township is positioned roughly:

10 miles north of the Indiana state line
About 70 miles south of Grand Rapids
About 110 miles west of Detroit

Interstate 69 runs directly through the Coldwater area, providing a major north-south highway corridor. According to the Michigan Department of Transportation, I-69 connects the region to Lansing, Flint, and other Michigan cities.

For residents working in Coldwater or commuting to nearby regional centers, the highway access is a practical advantage.

Cost of Living in Union Township, Michigan

Union Township generally reflects the lower cost of living typical of rural areas in southern Michigan.

According to data from the U.S. Census Bureau and BestPlaces.net, Branch County housing costs are typically below the national average.

Housing prices vary depending on location within the township, particularly near Coldwater Lake and other lakefront areas. According to Niche.com, housing costs in Branch County are generally lower than many metropolitan regions in Michigan.

Utilities and transportation costs are largely consistent with Midwest averages, according to data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics.

As with any location, expenses can vary depending on commute distances, property size, and whether a home sits on or near a lake.

Real Estate & Housing Overview

Real estate in Union Township consists primarily of rural homes, lakefront properties, and established residential neighborhoods near Coldwater.

According to U.S. Census Bureau housing data:

A large portion of homes were built between the 1950s and 1990s
Owner-occupied housing makes up the majority of properties
Lot sizes are generally larger than those found in suburban developments

Common housing styles include:

Ranch-style homes
Farmhouses and rural properties
Lakefront cottages and year-round homes
Mid-century residential houses

Coldwater Lake and surrounding lake communities can influence pricing, as waterfront properties tend to command higher values compared to inland homes.

New construction does occur but is relatively limited compared with larger Michigan metro areas. Local MLS data shows steady market activity tied closely to lakefront demand and regional housing trends.

Property Taxes in Union Township

Property taxes in Union Township follow Michigan’s standard millage-based property tax system.

According to the Michigan Department of Treasury, property taxes are calculated by multiplying the taxable value of a property by the total local millage rate.

Millage rates typically include:

Township millage
County millage
School district millage
Voter-approved local assessments

Michigan’s Proposal A limits increases in taxable value in most years unless the property transfers ownership or certain improvements are made, according to the Michigan Department of Treasury.

Union Township and Branch County publish current millage rates through local government offices. Because rates can change, buyers should verify current tax information directly with local officials.

Things to Do & Lifestyle

Union Township offers a lifestyle centered around lakes, outdoor recreation, and nearby small-town amenities.

Coldwater Lake is one of the region’s most well-known lakes. According to the Michigan Department of Natural Resources, the lake supports boating, fishing, and other recreational activities.

Residents often spend time outdoors at nearby lakes, trails, and parks throughout Branch County.

The city of Coldwater provides additional amenities such as restaurants, retail shops, and community events. The historic downtown area hosts seasonal festivals and local activities, according to the City of Coldwater.

For residents who enjoy outdoor recreation, quiet roads, and access to water activities, the township offers a lifestyle that prioritizes space and natural surroundings.

Schools & Education

Union Township is primarily served by Coldwater Community Schools.

According to GreatSchools.org, the district includes elementary, middle, and high school campuses serving students across the Coldwater area.

School ratings and performance metrics vary by campus and are based on factors such as academic progress, test scores, and college readiness indicators.

Niche.com provides additional reviews and data on academic programs, extracurricular opportunities, and overall district performance.

Families researching schools are encouraged to review current ratings and district resources when evaluating educational options.

Pros & Cons of Living in Union Township

Pros:

Access to Coldwater Lake and nearby recreational lakes (Michigan DNR)
Lower housing costs compared with many urban regions (BestPlaces.net)
Larger lot sizes and rural property options (U.S. Census Bureau)
Proximity to Coldwater’s amenities
Convenient I-69 highway access (Michigan Department of Transportation)

Cons:

Limited large-scale new construction
Rural areas require driving for many daily services
Smaller local job market within the township itself
Public transportation options are limited

Frequently Asked Questions About Living in Union Township, Michigan

Is Union Township, Michigan a rural area?

Yes. According to U.S. Census Bureau classifications, Union Township is a rural township located outside the city of Coldwater.

How close is Union Township to Coldwater, Michigan?

Union Township directly borders the city of Coldwater and sits immediately north of it.

Are there lakes in Union Township?

Yes. Coldwater Lake is one of the most prominent lakes in the township area, according to the Michigan Department of Natural Resources.

What county is Union Township in?

Union Township is located in Branch County, Michigan.

What school district serves Union Township?

Most students attend schools within Coldwater Community Schools, according to GreatSchools.org.

How far is Union Township from the Indiana border?

The township is located roughly 10 miles north of the Michigan–Indiana border.

Is there highway access near Union Township?

Yes. Interstate 69 runs near Coldwater and provides access to other Michigan cities, according to the Michigan Department of Transportation.

What types of homes are common in Union Township?

Rural homes, farmhouses, ranch-style homes, and lakefront properties are common based on U.S. Census Bureau housing data.

Is Union Township growing?

Population trends can change over time. The U.S. Census Bureau provides the most reliable data on local population patterns.

Are there boating opportunities nearby?

Yes. Coldwater Lake and other lakes in Branch County offer boating and fishing access, according to the Michigan DNR.

Is Union Township close to major cities?

The township is located about 70 miles south of Grand Rapids and approximately 110 miles west of Detroit.

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.