Is Washington Township Part of Metro Detroit?

Yes. Washington Township is in Macomb County and is generally considered part of the broader Detroit metropolitan area.

It sits toward the northern edge of suburban Metro Detroit, where development becomes less dense and the landscape transitions toward larger lots, farmland and rural communities.

That location is a large part of Washington Township's appeal.

Residents can access Metro Detroit employment and entertainment while living farther from the denser suburban core.

What Roads Connect Washington Township to Metro Detroit?

The major north and south route through the area is M 53, commonly known locally as Van Dyke.

M 53 connects Washington Township south through Shelby Township, Utica, Sterling Heights and toward the central Macomb County employment corridor.

M 59, or Hall Road, is located farther south and provides east and west connections toward Rochester Hills, Pontiac, Utica, Macomb Township and I 94.

Washington Township does not sit directly on a major interstate, so your exact commute can depend heavily on which part of the township you live in.

A home near M 53 can offer a very different daily drive than a property several miles west on a rural road.

How Far Is Washington Township From Detroit?

Washington Township is roughly 30 to 35 miles north of Downtown Detroit.

Driving time commonly ranges around 45 minutes to an hour depending on your starting point, destination, traffic and construction.

Anyone commuting to Detroit regularly should test the drive during their normal work hours rather than relying exclusively on a map estimate.

How Far Is Washington Township From Rochester Hills?

Washington Township sits directly east of northern Oakland County, making Rochester and Rochester Hills relatively accessible from the western side of the township.

Depending on the address and traffic, many trips into the Rochester area can fall within approximately 20 to 30 minutes.

This proximity is one reason Washington Township may appeal to buyers who spend time in both Macomb and Oakland counties.

How Far Is Washington Township From Auburn Hills?

Auburn Hills is generally around 20 to 30 minutes southwest of Washington Township depending on your exact location and traffic.

That can make Washington Township worth considering for people working around Auburn Hills, northern Oakland County or the I 75 employment corridor who prefer a more spacious residential setting.

What Does It Cost to Buy a Home in Washington Township Michigan?

Washington Township has a much wider housing range than many people expect.

Based on approximately 300 Washington Township closed sales reviewed through the local MLS for the previous 12 months, the median closed sale price was approximately $530,000.

That means half of the reviewed homes sold above that amount and half sold below it.

Two homes near the middle of the dataset closed at approximately $530,000 and were traditional three bedroom homes around 2,300 to 2,500 square feet, illustrating what the middle of this particular market looked like during the period analyzed.

However, the median does not tell the entire story.

How Wide Is the Washington Township Home Price Range?

Washington Township housing ranges from relatively inexpensive condos to multimillion dollar custom estates.

In the MLS sales reviewed for this analysis, the least expensive closing was a small condominium around $63,000, while a lakefront estate on Cusick Lake Drive closed around $3.2 million.

That means asking "What does a home cost in Washington Township?" requires another question first:

What type of home are you looking for?

A condominium, older ranch, newer subdivision home, custom property on acreage and waterfront estate can all exist within the same township while occupying completely different price ranges.

Why Are Washington Township Homes More Expensive Than Some Parts of Macomb County?

Several factors contribute to Washington Township's pricing.

The township generally offers more opportunities for larger lots, newer construction and larger homes than many of Macomb County's older communities farther south.

Buyers are also paying for access to amenities such as Stony Creek Metropark, nearby Romeo, orchards, golf courses and northern Macomb County's lower density setting.

Location within the township still matters significantly. A condominium near a commercial corridor and a custom home on several acres should not be compared simply because they share a Washington mailing address.

What Types of Homes Are in Washington Township?

Washington Township offers a diverse mix of housing.

• Condominiums
• Traditional ranch homes
• Colonial style homes
• Established subdivisions
• Newer construction
• Luxury homes
• Acreage properties
• Lakefront and waterfront homes
• Custom built homes

The northern and western parts of the township can feel noticeably different from the more developed areas closer to Van Dyke and the southern township boundary.

If lot size or a more rural setting is important to you, it is usually worth searching by individual property rather than assuming the entire township offers the same environment.

Does Washington Township Have Larger Lots?

Washington Township can offer larger residential lots and acreage opportunities than many more densely developed communities farther south in Macomb County.

That does not mean every property has acreage.

There are also conventional subdivisions and condominium developments throughout the township.

Buyers looking specifically for land should pay attention to zoning, parcel dimensions, well and septic information when applicable, utility availability and any restrictions affecting the property.

What School District Is Washington Township In?

This is one of the most important things to understand before buying a home in Washington Township.

There is not one school district covering every Washington Township address.

Depending on the exact property, an address can be assigned to Romeo Community Schools, Utica Community Schools or Rochester Community Schools.

Romeo Community Schools serves a substantial portion of Washington Township and operates several facilities within the Washington area, including Washington Elementary, Indian Hills Elementary, Hevel Elementary, the district's 9th Grade Academy and Romeo High School.

School district boundaries do not necessarily follow township or mailing address boundaries.

If school assignment is important to your home search, verify the specific property directly with the school district before making a purchase decision.

Are Romeo Community Schools in Washington Township?

Yes. Several Romeo Community Schools facilities are physically located in Washington Township.

Romeo High School is located on Jewell Road in Washington, along with the district's 9th Grade Academy.

Washington Elementary, Hevel Elementary and Indian Hills Elementary are also located in the Washington area.

However, owning a property with a Washington mailing address does not automatically guarantee assignment to Romeo Community Schools.

How Do Property Taxes Work in Washington Township?

Michigan property taxes can be confusing for relocation buyers because the tax bill currently shown on a listing may not accurately predict what the next owner will pay.

Michigan property taxes are based on taxable value and applicable millage rates.

After an ownership transfer, the property's taxable value can be uncapped in the following tax year, which is why buyers should not simply assume they will inherit the seller's current tax bill.

Washington Township is especially important to evaluate property by property because millage rates vary depending in part on the school district and other taxing jurisdictions associated with the parcel.

Do Property Taxes Vary Within Washington Township?

Yes.

Michigan's 2025 property tax rate report lists different Washington Township principal residence millage rates for properties in Romeo Community Schools, Utica Community Schools and Rochester Community Schools.

The state report also distinguishes between the regular principal residence rate and a figure that includes applicable ad valorem special assessment millage.

That means two homes with similar market values in Washington Township can have different property tax calculations depending on their location.

Always calculate estimated taxes using the specific parcel, expected taxable value, school district and applicable millage rather than applying one general township percentage.

Can I Estimate Washington Township Property Taxes From the Current Owner's Bill?

You should not rely on the current owner's tax bill alone.

Michigan's taxable value system can limit annual increases while someone owns a property. After a qualifying transfer of ownership, taxable value may be uncapped for the following tax year.

As a result, someone who has owned a Washington Township home for many years may be paying substantially less than a new buyer could pay after purchasing the property.

Before writing an offer, ask for an estimated post purchase tax calculation for that specific property.

What Is Stony Creek Metropark?

Stony Creek Metropark is one of Washington Township's biggest recreational advantages.

The regional park covers more than 4,400 acres across Macomb and Oakland counties and surrounds approximately 500 acre Stony Creek Lake.

Activities include boating, fishing, swimming, hiking, biking, mountain biking, golf, disc golf, picnicking, nature programs and seasonal winter recreation.

The park also includes a paved trail circling Stony Creek Lake, along with miles of additional natural surface and mountain biking trails.

What Can You Do at Stony Creek Metropark?

Stony Creek Metropark is designed for year round recreation.

• Hiking
• Road and recreational biking
• Mountain biking
• Swimming
• Boating
• Kayaking and canoeing
• Fishing
• Golf
• Disc golf
• Picnicking
• Nature programs
• Cross country skiing
• Snowshoeing
• Sledding
• Seasonal ice fishing

For someone who regularly wants access to trails or outdoor recreation, having a regional park of this size nearby can meaningfully affect day to day lifestyle.

What Is Washington Township Known For?

Washington Township is probably best known locally for its combination of orchards, open space, golf, Stony Creek Metropark and its connection to the Romeo area.

Long before today's subdivisions were constructed, this part of northern Macomb County was heavily agricultural.

That agricultural history is still visible in the orchards and farm markets operating throughout the area.

Are There Apple Orchards in Washington Township?

Yes.

Washington Township and the surrounding Romeo area are well known for apple orchards, cider mills and seasonal farm markets.

Verellen Orchards operates on Van Dyke in Washington Township and has been in operation since 1920.

Westview Orchards and Winery is another major local destination offering seasonal fruit, farm activities and a farm market.

During fall, this entire northern Macomb County area becomes a popular destination for cider, donuts, apples, pumpkins and other seasonal activities.

What Is the Loren Andrus Octagon House?

The Loren Andrus Octagon House is one of Washington Township's most distinctive historic sites.

As the name suggests, the house was constructed with eight sides.

Today the property is preserved as a historic attraction and offers scheduled tours and open house events.

It is one example of Washington Township's history predating the suburban growth now spreading through northern Macomb County.

What Golf Courses Are Near Washington Township?

Golf is another significant part of the recreation scene in and around Washington Township.

The area includes The Orchards Golf Club and Glacier Club, while Stony Creek Metropark operates its own 18 hole golf course nearby.

Stony Creek's course is a 6,928 yard par 72 layout surrounded by wooded terrain.

What Is There to Do in Washington Township Michigan?

Washington Township is not built around one traditional downtown district.

Instead, recreation and entertainment are spread throughout the township and nearby communities.

Popular local activities include visiting Stony Creek Metropark, exploring orchards and cider mills in fall, golfing, biking the Macomb Orchard Trail, visiting the historic Romeo area and dining along the Van Dyke corridor.

Residents are also close enough to Rochester, Rochester Hills, Shelby Township, Utica and other northern Metro Detroit communities to regularly use their restaurants, shopping and entertainment.

Does Washington Township Have a Downtown?

Washington Township itself does not have a traditional walkable downtown comparable with places such as Rochester or Royal Oak.

Much of the commercial development is concentrated along major roads such as Van Dyke.

However, the nearby Village of Romeo provides a more traditional small town downtown environment just north of much of the township.

This distinction matters for relocation buyers.

You can be close to a historic downtown without necessarily living within walking distance of it.

Is Washington Township Walkable?

Most of Washington Township is not a community where residents can rely on walking for everyday errands.

Homes, stores, restaurants and recreation are generally spread apart, and most residents will use a vehicle for normal daily activities.

Specific subdivisions and trails may offer opportunities for walking and biking, but the township overall should be approached as an automobile oriented community.

Is There Public Transportation in Washington Township?

Public transportation options are limited compared with larger urban areas.

The township's resident information identifies STAR Transportation as a service for qualifying residents, including older adults and certain residents with disabilities, but this is not equivalent to a comprehensive fixed route transit network.

For most residents, owning and driving a vehicle is an important part of daily life.

What Are the Pros of Living in Washington Township?

One of Washington Township's biggest advantages is the combination of residential space and access to northern Metro Detroit.

• Opportunities for larger lots and acreage
• Access to Stony Creek Metropark
• Orchards and seasonal farm markets
• Golf and outdoor recreation
• Access to M 53 and northern Macomb County
• Housing ranging from condos to luxury properties
• Proximity to Romeo, Shelby Township and northern Oakland County
• Newer subdivisions and construction in parts of the township

For buyers who want a less dense environment without moving completely outside Metro Detroit, that combination can be attractive.

What Are the Cons of Living in Washington Township?

Washington Township is not the right fit for every buyer.

• Home prices can be higher than many communities farther south in Macomb County
• Most daily errands require driving
• Public transportation is limited
• Some locations require longer drives before reaching major freeways
• School district boundaries vary by property
• Property taxes can differ depending on the specific parcel
• Larger lots require additional maintenance
• Rural properties may involve wells, septic systems or other property specific considerations

None of those characteristics are automatically good or bad. They simply need to match the way you actually want to live.

Is Washington Township More Rural Than Shelby Township?

Generally, Washington Township has more rural and low density areas than Shelby Township.

However, Washington Township has also experienced substantial residential development, so the difference depends on the specific neighborhood.

Some parts of Washington Township feature newer subdivisions, while others still contain farms, acreage and large open parcels.

If your goal is a rural setting, do not assume every Washington Township home provides it. Evaluate the immediate surroundings of each property.

Washington Township vs Macomb Township: What Is the Difference?

Both communities are in Macomb County, but they can provide noticeably different environments.

Macomb Township has experienced extensive suburban development and has a much larger population.

Washington Township sits farther north and generally retains more rural land, orchards, larger parcels and open space.

Your choice may come down to whether you prefer denser suburban convenience or additional space and a more northern setting.

Washington Township vs Shelby Township: Which Is Better?

There is no universally better choice.

Shelby Township typically places residents closer to Hall Road, Utica and more concentrated shopping and services.

Washington Township generally offers more opportunities for larger lots, newer homes and a lower density environment farther north.

The better option depends on your commute, housing budget, desired lot size and how frequently you use amenities farther south.

Washington Township vs Rochester Hills: What Should Buyers Know?

Washington Township is in Macomb County, while Rochester Hills is in Oakland County.

Although the communities are relatively close geographically, housing, municipal services, tax rates, school assignments and development patterns can differ significantly.

Buyers considering both should compare individual homes and neighborhoods instead of assuming that one community will automatically cost more or provide a particular lifestyle.

Is Washington Township Growing?

Yes, although the population trend is better described as steady growth than explosive growth.

The 2020 Census recorded 28,165 residents in Washington Township.

The Census Bureau's July 2025 estimate was 29,229 residents, representing approximately 3.8 percent growth from the 2020 population estimate base.

Residential development is visible throughout portions of the township, particularly as Metro Detroit growth continues pushing farther north.

Why Are Buyers Looking at Washington Township?

The appeal largely comes down to a combination that becomes harder to find as you move south through Metro Detroit.

Buyers can potentially get more land, newer housing and a less dense environment while maintaining reasonable access to employment corridors in Macomb and Oakland counties.

Add Stony Creek Metropark, orchards, golf, Romeo and the northern Macomb County landscape, and Washington Township offers a noticeably different setting without requiring a move several hours away from Metro Detroit.

Who Should Consider Washington Township Michigan?

Washington Township may make sense if your priorities include more residential space, outdoor recreation, newer housing options, access to northern Macomb County and a setting that becomes less dense than communities farther south.

It may be less appealing if your priority is walkability, extensive public transportation, a short Downtown Detroit commute or finding the lowest possible home price in Metro Detroit.

The best way to decide is to compare actual properties, commute routes and monthly costs rather than choosing a community based solely on reputation.

What Should I Check Before Buying a Home in Washington Township?

Before purchasing, verify the details associated with the individual property.

• Exact municipality
• School district
• Estimated post purchase property taxes
• Water and sewer or well and septic
• Homeowners association requirements
• Road type and maintenance
• Internet availability if important
• Commute during normal traffic hours
• Lot boundaries and zoning
• Nearby planned development

Washington Township is a perfect example of why the street address matters.

Two homes only a few miles apart can have different school districts, tax rates, utilities and daily driving patterns.

Frequently Asked Questions About Washington Township Michigan

Is Washington Township Michigan a good place to live?

Washington Township offers a mix of larger lots, subdivisions, newer construction, outdoor recreation and access to northern Metro Detroit. Whether it is a good fit depends on your budget, commute and preferred lifestyle. Buyers who prioritize walkability or public transportation may prefer a different community, while those looking for more space may find Washington Township appealing.

What county is Washington Township Michigan in?

Washington Township is in Macomb County in Southeast Michigan. It is located toward the northern portion of the county near Romeo, Bruce Township, Shelby Township, Ray Township and the Oakland County border.

How many people live in Washington Township Michigan?

The 2020 U.S. Census counted 28,165 residents. The Census Bureau estimated Washington Township's population at approximately 29,229 as of July 1, 2025.

What is the average home price in Washington Township Michigan?

Prices change continuously and depend heavily on property type. An analysis of roughly 300 local MLS sales over a recent 12 month period produced a median closed sale price around $530,000. Condos can sell for far less, while luxury and waterfront homes can sell for several million dollars.

What school district is Washington Township Michigan in?

Washington Township properties can fall within Romeo Community Schools, Utica Community Schools or Rochester Community Schools depending on the exact parcel. Buyers should verify the assigned district directly using the property address rather than assuming based on the Washington mailing address.

Does Washington Township have high property taxes?

There is no single tax rate for every Washington Township property. Tax rates vary based on school district and other taxing jurisdictions, and a property's taxable value can change after a transfer of ownership. Buyers should estimate taxes for the specific parcel before purchasing.

Does Washington Township have city water and sewer?

Parts of Washington Township are served by municipal water and sanitary sewer systems, while some properties may use private wells or septic systems. The township reports maintaining approximately 90 miles of water main and 70 miles of sanitary sewer, but buyers should verify the utility setup for the individual property.

Is Stony Creek Metropark in Washington Township?

Stony Creek Metropark spans portions of Macomb and Oakland counties and is immediately accessible from the Washington Township area. The park covers more than 4,400 acres and includes Stony Creek Lake, trails, beaches, boating, fishing, golf and year round recreation.

How far is Washington Township from Downtown Detroit?

Washington Township is approximately 30 to 35 miles north of Downtown Detroit. Driving time often ranges from about 45 minutes to an hour or more depending on the property, destination, traffic and construction.

How far is Washington Township from Rochester Michigan?

Many parts of Washington Township are approximately 20 to 30 minutes from Rochester and Rochester Hills, although the western portion of the township is generally closer than addresses farther east.

Is Washington Township rural?

Washington Township contains both suburban and rural characteristics. Some areas include modern subdivisions and commercial development, while other portions feature orchards, farmland, acreage and larger residential lots.

Does Washington Township have a downtown?

Washington Township does not have one central traditional downtown. Commercial development is primarily concentrated along corridors such as Van Dyke. The nearby Village of Romeo offers a historic downtown environment north of much of the township.

Is Washington Township walkable?

Washington Township overall is automobile oriented. Individual subdivisions, parks and trails may be walkable, but most residents need a vehicle for everyday shopping, commuting and errands.

Are there orchards in Washington Township Michigan?

Yes. Washington Township and the surrounding Romeo area have a long agricultural history and remain known for orchards and farm markets. Verellen Orchards and Westview Orchards are two prominent local destinations.

Are there new construction homes in Washington Township?

Yes. Washington Township contains a number of newer subdivisions and new construction opportunities. Availability, pricing and builder inventory change frequently, so buyers should compare active MLS listings with current builder communities.

Is Washington Township a good location for commuting?

It can work well for people commuting to northern Macomb County or parts of Oakland County. M 53 provides the main north and south route, while M 59 farther south connects toward major Metro Detroit employment corridors. The exact property location matters considerably because some homes require additional local road travel before reaching a major route.

Washington Township Michigan: The Bottom Line

Washington Township occupies an interesting position in Metro Detroit.

It is developed enough to provide subdivisions, restaurants, services and modern housing, but far enough north that orchards, acreage, rolling terrain and open space remain part of the landscape.

You can spend a morning at Stony Creek Metropark, stop at an orchard in the afternoon, head into Romeo, and still remain connected to Shelby Township, Rochester Hills and the rest of northern Metro Detroit.

The tradeoff is that housing can command a premium, daily life is heavily car dependent, and details such as school district and property taxes can change depending on the exact address.

That is why Washington Township is not a place I would evaluate from a township name alone.

You need to look at the individual property.

If you are considering moving to Washington Township or anywhere else in Southeast Michigan, I am Andrew McManamon with Living in Michigan. I help buyers, sellers and people relocating throughout Metro Detroit and across Michigan understand the actual communities, housing markets and costs behind the listings.

You can also download my free 74 page Living in Michigan Relocation Guide, which covers Michigan housing, property taxes, cost of living, communities and other information worth understanding before making a move.