Clinton Township (Macomb County), Michigan: Best Neighborhood Pockets + Pros/Cons for Newcomers — Should You Move Here?

By Andrew McManamonPlaces To Live In Michigan

Introduction

Clinton Township, Michigan is one of those places people often end up on purpose — and stay longer than expected. Located in central Macomb County, it offers a wide mix of housing styles, retail access, and commuter-friendly routes. If you’re considering a move here, it’s worth understanding how the township actually functions day to day, not just how it looks on a map.

Clinton Township (Macomb County), Michigan: Best Neighborhood Pockets + Pros/Cons for Newcomers — Should You Move Here?

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Where Is Clinton Township, Michigan Located?

Clinton Township sits in central Macomb County, bordered by Sterling Heights, Mount Clemens, Fraser, and Harrison Township. The township is positioned along major roadways including I-94, M-59 (Hall Road), and Gratiot Avenue, making travel throughout Metro Detroit relatively direct. According to U.S. Census Bureau geographic data, Clinton Township covers approximately 28 square miles and serves as a major hub within northern Metro Detroit.

Cost of Living in Clinton Township, Michigan

The cost of living in Clinton Township generally tracks close to Macomb County averages, with housing as the largest variable.

Median home value: Approximately $245,000 according to Niche.com
Utilities: Near the Michigan average based on Bureau of Labor Statistics regional data
Transportation: Primarily car-dependent, with fuel and insurance costs consistent with Southeast Michigan norms

Compared to Michigan overall, Clinton Township’s cost of living is considered moderate, particularly for buyers seeking established neighborhoods rather than new-build pricing.

Real Estate & Housing Overview

Clinton Township offers one of the widest housing mixes in Macomb County:

Ranch, colonial, and split-level homes are most common
Typical lot sizes range from 0.2 to 0.4 acres
Most housing was built between the 1950s and 1990s
Condominiums and townhomes are available throughout the township

According to MLS trend summaries and Niche.com housing data, turnover remains steady with consistent demand driven by location and housing variety. New construction exists but is limited compared to outer-ring suburbs.

Property Taxes in Clinton Township

Property taxes in Clinton Township are calculated using Michigan’s millage system and vary by school district and assessed value. Per the Michigan Department of Treasury, residents pay a combination of township, county, and school operating millages. While rates are in line with Macomb County averages, actual tax bills vary by property and should always be verified with township records.

Things to Do & Lifestyle

Clinton Township emphasizes convenience and outdoor access rather than a traditional downtown core. Lifestyle highlights include:

George George Memorial Park and surrounding green spaces
Clinton River Trail access for walking and biking
Proximity to Freedom Hill Amphitheatre and Macomb County parks
Extensive retail, dining, and service options along Hall Road and Gratiot Avenue

According to Macomb County Parks & Recreation, the township benefits from one of the region’s more connected park and trail systems.

Schools & Education (Neutral Framing)

Clinton Township is served by multiple school districts including Chippewa Valley Schools and L’Anse Creuse Public Schools. Based on data from GreatSchools.org and Niche.com:

Academic performance varies by school and program
Districts offer a range of academic and extracurricular options
Enrollment sizes reflect the township’s population density

This variety allows residents to evaluate options based on location and programming.

Pros & Cons of Living in Clinton Township

Pros:

Central Macomb County location
Wide range of housing styles and price points
Strong retail and service infrastructure
Multiple commute route options

Cons:

Heavy traffic along major corridors during peak hours
Limited traditional downtown area
Older housing stock may require updates
Public transit options are limited

Frequently Asked Questions About Living in Clinton Township, Michigan

What is the population of Clinton Township? — Approximately 100,000 residents according to the U.S. Census Bureau
Is Clinton Township a city or township? — It is a charter township
How far is Clinton Township from Detroit? — Roughly 20 miles northeast
What highways serve Clinton Township? — I-94 and M-59 provide primary access
Are there parks in Clinton Township? — Yes, including township and county-managed parks
What types of homes are common? — Ranch, colonial, split-level, and condominiums
Is new construction available? — Limited, mostly infill or condo developments
How are property taxes determined? — Based on assessed value and local millage rates
Does Clinton Township have a downtown? — No traditional downtown core
Are shopping and dining options nearby? — Yes, especially along Hall Road
Is Clinton Township car-dependent? — Yes, most daily errands require driving
Are there trails or bike paths? — Clinton River Trail runs through the area
What counties are nearby? — Oakland County borders to the west
Is housing inventory competitive? — Demand remains steady based on MLS data

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.