Living in Rose, Springfield & Tyrone Townships Michigan: Homes, Acreage, Lakes & Local Guide

Michigan's Overlooked Middle Ground: Living in Rose, Springfield and Tyrone Townships

If you drew a circle around Fenton, Holly, Clarkston, Highland, White Lake and Milford, there is a large stretch of Southeast Michigan sitting right in the middle that many relocation buyers never think to search.

It is not one city and it does not have one recognizable downtown.

Instead, much of this area is made up of Rose Township and Springfield Township in Oakland County and Tyrone Township in Livingston County.

These three townships offer something that becomes increasingly difficult to find as you move deeper into Metro Detroit: acreage, lakes, wooded properties, gravel roads, lower density neighborhoods and access to several different downtowns without necessarily living directly inside one of them.

The tradeoff is equally important. Most of this area is car dependent, freeway access varies considerably by address, and your school district and property taxes can change depending on the specific parcel you purchase.

If you are considering living in Rose Township, Springfield Township or Tyrone Township, Michigan, here is what you should know before buying a home.

What Is This Part of Southeast Michigan Like?

The easiest way to describe this area is rural living surrounded by established Southeast Michigan communities.

You will find wooded roads, rolling terrain, lakes, larger residential lots, historic crossroads, horse properties and acreage throughout the region.

At the same time, you are not isolated from civilization.

Depending on where you live, communities such as Fenton, Holly, Clarkston, Milford, Highland and White Lake can often be reached within a relatively short drive.

Instead of having one downtown that defines where you live, you may have several different downtowns and commercial areas within your normal driving radius.

What Cities Are Near Rose, Springfield and Tyrone Townships?

The surrounding communities are a major part of what makes this area interesting.

• Fenton is north and northwest of the area
• Holly is north and northeast
• Clarkston is southeast
• White Lake is south and southeast
• Highland Township is south
• Milford is southwest

Your relationship with those communities depends heavily on the exact property.

A home in western Tyrone Township may naturally orient toward Fenton, while a property in eastern Springfield Township may have easier access to Clarkston and I 75.

This is why I recommend relocation buyers search by actual drive time instead of assuming every property within the same township offers the same convenience.

Does Rose Township Michigan Have a Downtown?

No. Rose Township does not have an incorporated downtown comparable with Fenton, Holly or Milford.

Instead, its history developed around smaller crossroads communities.

Rose Center developed near Milford Road and Rose Center Road after railroad service came through the township in the 19th century. Rose Corners developed around Rose Center Road and Hickory Ridge Road.

Those historic settlements help explain the township's identity today, but buyers should expect a rural township rather than a traditional walkable downtown.

Does Springfield Township Michigan Have a Downtown?

Springfield Township does not have one large incorporated downtown, either.

Davisburg is the township's best known historic community, while Andersonville is another historic settlement within the area.

For larger concentrations of restaurants, shopping and entertainment, residents commonly travel toward Clarkston, White Lake, Holly and surrounding communities.

Does Tyrone Township Michigan Have a Downtown?

Tyrone Township does not have a traditional downtown district.

It is primarily a residential and rural township immediately south of Fenton.

For many Tyrone Township residents, Fenton functions as one of the closest major destinations for restaurants, shopping, groceries and entertainment.

What Is Rose Township Michigan Known For?

Rose Township is known for its rural landscape, lakes, natural areas and long agricultural history.

The township was formally created in 1837 and has retained a substantially more rural character than many Oakland County communities closer to Detroit.

One of its standout recreation areas is Rose Oaks County Park.

Oakland County describes Rose Oaks as a 649-acre natural park containing glacial lakes, rolling meadows, wooded uplands and approximately five miles of trails.

Activities include hiking, horseback riding, cycling, cross-country skiing, fishing and carry-in boating with non-motorized or electric-motor boats.

What Parks Are in Rose Township Michigan?

Rose Township has several local and county park options.

Civic Center Park is a 10-acre township park with baseball diamonds and a picnic pavilion.

Dearborn Park covers approximately 116.5 acres and contains open pasture, wooded areas and developing walking paths.

Rose Ponds is approximately 41 acres with open and wooded areas.

Rose Oaks County Park provides the largest natural recreation area within the township.

What Is Springfield Township Michigan Known For?

Springfield Township combines rural residential areas, lakes, historic communities and significant parkland while remaining relatively close to Clarkston and the I 75 corridor.

One of the township's biggest recreational assets is Indian Springs Metropark.

The park contains extensive prairie, wetland, woodland and meadow environments along with a paved hike and bike trail, golf course, playground, splash pad and Environmental Discovery Center.

The Environmental Discovery Center includes educational exhibits and even an underwater viewing area looking into a naturally managed pond.

What Can You Do at Indian Springs Metropark?

Indian Springs Metropark offers recreation throughout the year.

• Hiking
• Biking
• Golf
• Horseback riding
• Picnicking
• Nature programs
• Playgrounds
• Seasonal splash pad
• Cross-country skiing
• Sledding

The park also has an eight-mile paved hike and bike trail and numerous nature trails through prairie, woodland and wetland environments.

Where Is the Oakland County Fair Held?

The Oakland County Fair is held at Springfield Oaks County Park in Davisburg.

The annual event typically includes livestock, carnival rides, agricultural exhibits and other fair attractions.

For residents of Springfield Township and the surrounding area, it is one of the region's major annual community events.

What Is Tyrone Township Michigan Known For?

Tyrone Township is a Livingston County community immediately south of Fenton known for lakes, rural residential properties and relatively convenient access to US 23.

One of the township's best known lakes is Runyan Lake.

The township includes a mix of lakefront homes, traditional single-family properties, larger parcels and acreage.

For buyers who want access to Fenton but do not necessarily want to live directly within the city, Tyrone Township can be worth exploring.

Can You Find Lakefront Homes in Rose, Springfield and Tyrone Townships?

Yes. Lakes are one of the defining geographic features of this part of Southeast Michigan.

Lakefront and lake access properties can be found throughout the three townships, although the size, access rules and permitted uses vary by lake.

Tyrone Township's Runyan Lake is one of the area's most recognizable lakefront markets.

Buyers considering lake property should verify whether a lake is public or private, whether it allows motorized boating, what type of access comes with the property and whether a homeowners association or lake association applies.

Can You Find Acreage Near Fenton and Clarkston Michigan?

Yes. This is one of the biggest reasons buyers consider Rose, Springfield and Tyrone Townships.

The area can offer larger parcels and acreage while maintaining access to communities such as Fenton, Holly, Clarkston, Milford, Highland and White Lake.

Acreage does not automatically mean inexpensive, however.

Price depends on the home, land quality, utilities, road frontage, outbuildings, lake access, location and development potential.

How Much Do Homes Cost in Rose, Springfield and Tyrone Townships?

Housing prices vary dramatically because the area includes fixer uppers, conventional homes, acreage properties and luxury lakefront estates.

Based on the local MLS analysis used for this guide, 168 residential sales closed across Rose, Springfield and Tyrone Townships during the previous 12 months, with a combined median sale price of approximately $430,000.

That combined median is useful for understanding the general market, but it should not be interpreted as the median price of each individual township.

Each township has its own housing mix, and lakefront or acreage properties can create significant variation.

What Is the Cheapest Type of Home in This Area?

Lower priced homes do occasionally appear, but condition and property type matter.

One of the lowest sales in the MLS analysis was a four-bedroom, two-bath Cape Cod in Rose Township built in 1940.

The property sat on more than six acres, needed substantial work and did not have a garage. It was listed at $99,900 and ultimately sold for approximately $130,000.

That sale is a useful reminder that an unusually low price often comes with a tradeoff.

In this case, much of the property's appeal was the amount of land rather than a move-in-ready house.

How Expensive Can Homes Get in This Area?

The upper end can reach well into the luxury market, particularly for lakefront homes.

In the same MLS analysis, a contemporary ranch on Runyan Lake in Tyrone Township sold for approximately $2.9 million.

The property included four bedrooms, four and a half bathrooms, more than 6,000 finished square feet, approximately 2.5 acres and 123 feet of private lake frontage.

The difference between that property and the Rose Township fixer upper illustrates why one headline home price cannot adequately describe this market.

What Types of Homes Are Available?

Housing throughout Rose, Springfield and Tyrone Townships can include:

• Traditional single-family homes
• Ranch homes
• Colonials
• Older farmhouses
• Fixer uppers
• Acreage properties
• Homes with pole barns and outbuildings
• Lake access homes
• Private lakefront homes
• Custom luxury properties

If you are searching specifically for acreage, lakefront property or an outbuilding, expanding beyond city boundaries can significantly increase the number of properties worth considering.

What School District Is Rose Township Michigan In?

School assignment varies by address.

Properties in Rose Township can fall into different school districts depending on location, so buyers should never assume a school district based solely on a Holly or Fenton mailing address.

If school assignment matters to your move, verify the specific property directly with the appropriate district before purchasing.

What School District Is Springfield Township Michigan In?

Springfield Township properties can be assigned to different districts depending on the parcel.

Areas of the township are associated with districts including Clarkston Community Schools, Holly Area Schools and Brandon School District.

School boundaries do not necessarily follow township boundaries, which makes address-specific verification important.

What School District Is Tyrone Township Michigan In?

Tyrone Township is divided among Fenton Area Public Schools, Linden Community Schools and Hartland Consolidated Schools.

The township's official school district map shows all three districts within its boundaries.

This means two Tyrone Township homes only a few miles apart can be assigned to different school systems.

Why Does the School District Matter When Buying Here?

School district affects more than school assignment.

It can also affect the property tax millage associated with a parcel.

That is why buyers should verify both the municipality and school district before estimating annual property taxes.

A mailing address by itself is not enough.

How Do Property Taxes Work in Rose, Springfield and Tyrone Townships?

Michigan property taxes are based on a property's taxable value and the millage rates that apply to that specific parcel.

Those millages can include county, township, school and other taxing authorities.

Because these three townships contain multiple school districts, two similarly priced properties can have different tax bills.

There is another important issue for Michigan buyers: the current owner's tax bill may not accurately represent what you will pay after purchasing the property.

Following a qualifying transfer of ownership, Michigan taxable value can be uncapped for the following tax year.

For that reason, I recommend estimating future property taxes using the individual parcel and applicable millages rather than simply copying the seller's current tax bill.

Are Property Taxes the Same Throughout Each Township?

No.

Tax rates can vary within the same township because properties may fall into different school districts or other taxing jurisdictions.

This is especially important throughout Rose, Springfield and Tyrone Townships because school boundaries cross municipal areas.

If you are comparing two homes, have the estimated post-purchase taxes calculated separately for each property.

How Close Is Rose Township to Fenton?

Rose Township sits southeast of Fenton, but drive time varies considerably depending on the property.

Homes in the northern and western portions of the township generally provide easier access toward Fenton, while properties farther south or east may orient more toward Holly, Highland or Clarkston.

For anyone commuting regularly, map the actual property rather than estimating from the township name.

How Close Is Springfield Township to Clarkston?

Springfield Township is directly north of the Clarkston and Independence Township area.

Properties on the eastern side of Springfield Township can provide relatively convenient access to Clarkston and I 75, while western portions of the township may require more time on local roads.

How Close Is Tyrone Township to Fenton?

Tyrone Township sits immediately south of Fenton.

Depending on the property, Downtown Fenton, US 23 and the city's commercial areas can be a relatively short drive away.

This location can make Tyrone Township particularly interesting for buyers who like Fenton but want to explore more rural, acreage or lakefront options outside the city.

Is This Area Good for Commuting?

It depends on where you need to go.

US 23 runs along the western side of this broader region, while I 75 is east of Springfield Township and M 59 is farther south.

The challenge is getting from your house to those major roads.

Many rural properties require driving several miles on two-lane local roads before reaching an expressway.

Someone working in Fenton, Clarkston, Holly or another nearby community may find the location very convenient.

Someone commuting daily to Downtown Detroit or another part of central Metro Detroit should carefully test the route during normal rush hour.

Is This Area Walkable?

Generally, no.

Rose, Springfield and Tyrone Townships are primarily car-oriented communities.

You may have excellent opportunities to walk or bike recreationally at parks and trails, but most residents will need a vehicle for groceries, restaurants, work and everyday errands.

If being able to walk from your home to coffee shops, restaurants and stores is a major priority, a nearby downtown such as Fenton, Milford or Clarkston may fit that goal better.

What Are the Advantages of Living Here?

The biggest advantage is the combination of space and location.

You can potentially own more land or live in a lower density setting while remaining within driving distance of several established Southeast Michigan communities.

Other advantages can include access to lakes, natural areas, parks, trails, acreage properties and a broader variety of housing than buyers may find in denser suburbs.

What Are the Downsides?

The same characteristics that attract some buyers can be disadvantages for others.

Most errands require driving. Some properties are farther from expressways. Gravel roads are common in rural areas. Larger parcels require more maintenance.

Depending on the property, buyers may also encounter private wells, septic systems, propane, outbuildings and other features that require additional due diligence.

This is not a region where I would recommend buying based on photos and a mailing address alone.

Rose Township vs Springfield Township vs Tyrone Township

The three townships share a rural character, but their locations create meaningful differences.

Rose Township can appeal to buyers who want Oakland County acreage, natural areas and access toward Holly, Fenton and Highland.

Springfield Township can provide a more direct relationship with Clarkston, I 75 and northern Oakland County while still offering rural and lake-oriented properties.

Tyrone Township puts buyers in Livingston County immediately south of Fenton with convenient access toward US 23 and a strong selection of lake and acreage properties.

The better option depends less on which township has the best reputation and more on where you actually need to drive every week.

Frequently Asked Questions About Rose, Springfield and Tyrone Townships

What county is Rose Township Michigan in?

Rose Township is in Oakland County in Southeast Michigan. It is located near Holly, Fenton, Highland Township and Springfield Township.

What county is Springfield Township Michigan in?

Springfield Township is in Oakland County. Davisburg is the township's best known historic community, and the township is located north of the Clarkston area.

What county is Tyrone Township Michigan in?

Tyrone Township is in Livingston County. It sits directly south of Fenton and west of Rose Township.

Is Rose Township rural?

Yes. Rose Township has maintained a largely rural character with wooded areas, lakes, open land and lower density residential development. There are also conventional neighborhoods and lake communities within the township.

Is Springfield Township rural?

Springfield Township combines rural and suburban characteristics. It includes wooded roads, lakes and lower density areas while remaining relatively close to Clarkston and the I 75 corridor.

Is Tyrone Township rural?

Much of Tyrone Township has a rural or semi-rural character, although the township also contains established residential neighborhoods and lake communities, particularly around areas such as Runyan Lake.

Where can I find acreage near Fenton Michigan?

Tyrone Township and Rose Township are two areas worth considering when searching for acreage near Fenton. Buyers can also explore surrounding portions of Livingston, Oakland and Genesee counties depending on their desired commute and budget.

Where can I find acreage near Clarkston Michigan?

Springfield Township and Rose Township can offer acreage and larger parcels north and northwest of Clarkston. Availability varies, and larger properties can command substantial prices depending on the house, land and location.

Are there lakefront homes near Fenton outside the city?

Yes. Tyrone Township and surrounding communities contain numerous lakes and lakefront residential areas. Runyan Lake is one of the more recognizable lakefront markets in Tyrone Township.

What school district is Tyrone Township in?

Tyrone Township contains portions of Fenton Area Public Schools, Linden Community Schools and Hartland Consolidated Schools. Buyers should verify the exact district for any property they are considering.

What school district is Springfield Township in?

School assignments vary by address. Portions of Springfield Township are associated with Clarkston Community Schools, Holly Area Schools and Brandon School District. Verify the specific property directly with the district.

Are property taxes high in this area?

There is no single property tax rate for Rose, Springfield or Tyrone Township. Taxes depend on taxable value and the millages applying to the individual parcel, including the school district. Two similarly priced homes can therefore have different annual tax bills.

Is Rose Oaks County Park in Rose Township?

Yes. Rose Oaks County Park is located in Rose Township. Oakland County currently describes the park as approximately 649 acres with glacial lakes, meadows, wooded uplands and about five miles of trails.

Is Indian Springs Metropark in Springfield Township?

Indian Springs Metropark is located in the Springfield Township and White Lake area of Oakland County. The park offers hiking, biking, golf, nature programs, an Environmental Discovery Center and seasonal recreation.

Where is the Oakland County Fair?

The Oakland County Fair is held at Springfield Oaks County Park in Davisburg, within Springfield Township.

How far are these townships from Downtown Detroit?

Drive times vary significantly because the area covers a large geographic footprint. Many properties are roughly an hour or more from Downtown Detroit depending on traffic and the exact address. Buyers commuting regularly should test the actual route during their expected travel time.

Do Rose, Springfield and Tyrone Townships have city water and sewer?

Utility availability varies by property and location. Rural homes may use private wells and septic systems, while other areas may have different utility arrangements. Buyers should verify water, sewer, well and septic information for the specific parcel before purchasing.

Are there gravel roads in this area?

Yes. Gravel and unpaved roads are common in portions of rural Southeast Michigan, including parts of these townships. Road surface and maintenance should be checked for each property, particularly if year-round commuting is important.

Is it cheaper to live here than Clarkston or Fenton?

Not necessarily. Expanding your search into these townships can uncover different property types and price points, but acreage and lakefront homes can cost substantially more than conventional homes in nearby cities. Compare similar properties rather than relying only on township-wide averages.

Who Should Consider Living in Rose, Springfield or Tyrone Township?

This part of Southeast Michigan is worth considering if your priorities include acreage, privacy, lakes, outdoor recreation or a lower density setting while remaining within driving distance of several established communities.

It is probably less appealing if your priorities are walkability, public transportation or being immediately next to a major expressway.

For the right buyer, however, that is exactly the point.

You can have several acres, a pole barn, lake access or a wooded property and still be able to spend your evening in Downtown Fenton, Clarkston, Holly or Milford.

Instead of choosing one famous town, you are choosing the quieter space between them.

Thinking About Moving to Rose, Springfield or Tyrone Township Michigan?

If you are planning a move to Southeast Michigan, do not limit your search to the city names you already recognize.

Some of the most interesting properties are sitting just outside them.

I am Andrew McManamon with Living in Michigan, and I help people buy, sell and relocate throughout Metro Detroit, Southeast Michigan and communities across the state.

If you are considering Rose Township, Springfield Township, Tyrone Township, Fenton, Holly, Clarkston, Highland, White Lake, Milford or the surrounding area, feel free to reach out. We can compare the actual homes, property taxes, school boundaries and commute times that make sense for your move.

You can also download my free 74 page Living in Michigan Relocation Guide, covering Michigan property taxes, cost of living, housing, schools and communities throughout the state.

And if you want more Michigan relocation and real estate information, subscribe to the Living in Michigan newsletter for market updates, community guides and new videos.