Ann Arbor Township, Michigan Relocation Guide: Vibe, Housing, Amenities & Daily Life

By Andrew McManamonPlaces To Live In Michigan

Introduction

Ann Arbor Township, Michigan often comes up in conversations with people who want proximity to Ann Arbor without living directly inside the city limits. Located in Washtenaw County, the township offers a more residential, lower-density environment while still providing access to employment centers, healthcare, and cultural amenities nearby. It’s not designed to feel urban, and that’s very much the point. Understanding what daily life looks like here helps set realistic expectations for anyone considering a move.

Ann Arbor Township, Michigan Relocation Guide: Vibe, Housing, Amenities & Daily Life

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Where Is Ann Arbor Township, Michigan Located?

Ann Arbor Township is located in north and northeast Washtenaw County and surrounds portions of the City of Ann Arbor without being part of it. According to U.S. Census Bureau geographic data, the township borders Ann Arbor, Superior Township, and Northfield Township. Major roadways such as US-23, M-14, and Plymouth Road provide convenient access to Ann Arbor, Ypsilanti, and the broader Southeast Michigan region. Detroit Metropolitan Airport is reachable via highway travel, typically within a reasonable driving distance based on MDOT routing data.

Cost of Living in Ann Arbor Township, Michigan

The cost of living in Ann Arbor Township is influenced primarily by housing. According to U.S. Census Bureau American Community Survey data, median home values in the township are higher than Michigan averages and generally higher than nearby townships farther from Ann Arbor. Utility and transportation costs are consistent with regional norms, based on Bureau of Labor Statistics data for Southeast Michigan. BestPlaces.net and Niche.com indicate that while everyday expenses align closely with state averages, housing remains the largest cost variable.

Real Estate & Housing Overview

Homes in Ann Arbor Township tend to be single-family residences on larger parcels, with fewer subdivisions than nearby cities. Common housing styles include mid-to-late 20th-century homes, custom builds, and newer construction on individual lots. According to U.S. Census Bureau housing data, much of the housing stock was built after 1970. New construction does occur, but it is typically limited in scale and subject to township zoning regulations. MLS data reflects a relatively low inventory compared to more densely populated areas, with market activity driven more by location than volume.

Property Taxes in Ann Arbor Township

Property taxes in Ann Arbor Township are based on taxable value and locally approved millage rates. Michigan’s property tax system limits annual increases in taxable value, though overall tax bills may change due to voter-approved millages. According to the Michigan Department of Treasury and Ann Arbor Township financial records, township taxes support local services, while additional taxes fund county and school district obligations. Property tax amounts vary by parcel and should always be verified with the township assessor.

Things to Do & Lifestyle

Ann Arbor Township itself is largely residential, but it benefits from immediate access to nearby amenities. Outdoor recreation is a major lifestyle component, with proximity to the Huron River and multiple parks. The Michigan Department of Natural Resources notes that the river corridor supports kayaking, walking trails, and natural areas. Matthaei Botanical Gardens and Nichols Arboretum, operated by the University of Michigan, are located nearby. Downtown Ann Arbor, with its restaurants, shops, and events, is a short drive away, expanding entertainment and cultural options without being part of the township proper.

Schools & Education

Most of Ann Arbor Township is served by Ann Arbor Public Schools, depending on specific location. According to GreatSchools.org and Niche.com, schools in this district show a range of academic performance metrics and program offerings. Educational experiences can vary by school and grade level. Individuals researching school options should review current data directly and consider commute patterns when evaluating specific properties.

Pros & Cons of Living in Ann Arbor Township

Pros

Close proximity to Ann Arbor amenities and employers
Larger lot sizes and lower residential density
Access to parks and the Huron River corridor
Highway connectivity via US-23 and M-14

Cons

Limited commercial areas within the township
Higher housing costs compared to many Michigan communities
Fewer housing inventory options at any given time

Frequently Asked Questions About Living in Ann Arbor Township, Michigan

Is Ann Arbor Township part of the City of Ann Arbor? No, it is a separate municipality, according to Washtenaw County records.
How close is Ann Arbor Township to downtown Ann Arbor? Travel times vary by location, but proximity is immediate along shared borders, per U.S. Census maps.
Are there shopping areas in Ann Arbor Township? Most shopping is located in nearby Ann Arbor.
Does Ann Arbor Township have public transportation? Limited service is available; most residents rely on personal transportation, according to AAATA service maps.
Are homes on large lots? Many properties feature larger parcels compared to city neighborhoods, per township zoning data.
Is new construction allowed? Yes, though it is regulated by zoning and land-use policies.
Are there parks nearby? Yes, including riverfront and botanical areas, per Michigan DNR and University of Michigan sources.
How competitive is the housing market? Inventory is generally limited, based on regional MLS trends.
Is Ann Arbor Township considered rural? It is best described as low-density residential rather than rural.
Who manages local services? Ann Arbor Township provides municipal governance independent of the City of Ann Arbor.

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.