Custer Township (Sanilac County), Michigan Relocation Guide: Vibe, Housing, Amenities & Daily Life

By Andrew McManamonPlaces To Live In Michigan

Introduction

If you’re exploring quieter parts of Michigan with open land and a slower pace, Custer Township, Michigan may be on your list.

Located in Sanilac County in the Thumb region, Custer Township offers a rural setting with agricultural roots and easy access to nearby Lake Huron shoreline communities. It’s not a bustling suburb — and that’s exactly the point for many people considering a move here.

In this guide, we’ll walk through housing, property taxes, schools, cost of living, and lifestyle considerations so you can decide whether Custer Township aligns with your long-term goals.

Custer Township (Sanilac County), Michigan Relocation Guide: Vibe, Housing, Amenities & Daily Life

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Where Is Custer Township, Michigan Located?

Custer Township is located in Sanilac County in Michigan’s Thumb region. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, it is a civil township with a small population compared to urban areas.

The township sits west of Lake Huron and is near the city of Sandusky, which serves as the county seat of Sanilac County. Sandusky provides access to grocery stores, medical facilities, and other essential services.

Primary access routes in the area include M-19 and other state highways connecting residents to:

Sandusky
Port Huron (approximately an hour south)
I-69 corridor access toward Flint and Metro Detroit

Based on Michigan state GIS and Census mapping data, the township is primarily agricultural and residential in land use.

Cost of Living in Custer Township, Michigan

Detailed cost-of-living data specific to Custer Township is limited due to its small population size. However, according to U.S. Census Bureau data for Sanilac County, housing costs are generally below the Michigan statewide median.

BestPlaces.net reports that Sanilac County’s overall cost of living index is below the national average, largely due to housing affordability.

Utility and transportation costs in rural Michigan are generally consistent with statewide averages, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics Midwest regional data.

Because housing is often on larger parcels of land, maintenance and heating costs can vary depending on property size and infrastructure (such as well and septic systems).

Real Estate & Housing Overview

Housing in Custer Township is primarily single-family residential, with many homes situated on larger lots or agricultural acreage.

According to U.S. Census Bureau housing data for rural Sanilac County:

Many homes were built between the 1940s and 1990s
Owner-occupied properties make up the majority of housing
Manufactured homes are present in some rural areas

Common property types include:

Farmhouses and agricultural properties
Ranch-style homes on acreage
Modular or manufactured homes
Vacant land parcels

New construction activity exists but is limited compared to fast-growing suburban counties. Local MLS data typically shows lower transaction volume due to the township’s size.

For buyers seeking space, outbuildings, or agricultural zoning, Custer Township may offer options that are harder to find in more densely populated regions.

Property Taxes in Custer Township

Property taxes in Custer Township follow Michigan’s standard millage-based system.

According to the Michigan Department of Treasury, property taxes are calculated using the property’s taxable value multiplied by the local millage rate. Proposal A limits annual increases in taxable value, except in cases of ownership transfer or improvements.

Millage rates in Custer Township include:

Township operating millage
Sanilac County millage
School district millage

For current rates, buyers should consult Custer Township officials or the Sanilac County Treasurer’s office, as rates can change annually.

Things to Do & Lifestyle

Custer Township itself is primarily residential and agricultural, so most amenities are located in nearby communities.

Sandusky offers local restaurants, small shops, and county offices. The Sanilac County website lists community services and seasonal events.

Outdoor recreation is a strong point of the region. According to the Michigan Department of Natural Resources:

Lake Huron shoreline access is available within driving distance
Sanilac County includes public access points for boating and fishing
Nearby state game areas provide hunting opportunities

The rural landscape also supports:

Gardening and small-scale farming
Open-road cycling
Stargazing with minimal light pollution

Daily life here centers around space, quiet surroundings, and proximity to nature rather than urban entertainment options.

Schools & Education

Custer Township is served by local public school districts within Sanilac County, including Sandusky Community Schools depending on specific property location.

According to GreatSchools.org and Niche.com, Sandusky Community Schools provides elementary through high school education. School ratings and performance indicators vary by campus and year.

As always, district boundaries should be verified through official school district maps or Sanilac County records before purchasing property.

Pros & Cons of Living in Custer Township

Pros:

Lower housing costs compared to many Michigan counties (U.S. Census Bureau data for Sanilac County)
Larger lot sizes and agricultural property options
Access to Lake Huron shoreline within driving distance (Michigan DNR)
Minimal traffic and quiet surroundings
Lower population density (U.S. Census Bureau)

Cons:

Limited commercial development within the township
Fewer dining and retail options locally
Longer commute times to major employment centers
Limited public transportation availability

Frequently Asked Questions About Living in Custer Township, Michigan

Is Custer Township, Michigan rural?

Yes. According to U.S. Census Bureau classification and land use data, Custer Township is primarily rural and agricultural.

How far is Custer Township from Lake Huron?

Lake Huron shoreline communities in Sanilac County are generally within a short drive east of the township, depending on location.

What county is Custer Township in?

Custer Township is located in Sanilac County.

Are property taxes high in Custer Township?

Property taxes follow Michigan’s millage system. Rates vary annually and should be verified with the Sanilac County Treasurer, per the Michigan Department of Treasury guidelines.

What types of homes are common in Custer Township?

Farmhouses, ranch homes, modular homes, and properties with acreage are common, based on Census housing data.

Is there new construction in Custer Township?

New construction exists but is limited compared to suburban growth areas, according to local MLS activity.

Which school district serves Custer Township?

Properties may fall within Sandusky Community Schools or other nearby districts, depending on location. Check GreatSchools.org for current information.

Does Custer Township have a downtown area?

No. Most commercial activity is located in nearby Sandusky.

What highways serve the area?

M-19 and nearby state highways provide regional connectivity.

Is Custer Township close to Port Huron?

Port Huron is approximately an hour’s drive south, depending on route and traffic.

Is land available for purchase in Custer Township?

Vacant land parcels are periodically available, according to local MLS listings.

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.