Harrison Township, Michigan Living Guide: Housing Market, Schools, Safety & Weekend Fun

By Andrew McManamonPlaces To Live In Michigan

Introduction

Harrison Township, Michigan is known for one thing almost immediately: water. Located along Lake St. Clair in Macomb County, this community draws attention for its canals, marinas, and easy access to outdoor recreation. People considering a move here are usually weighing lifestyle as much as housing, so it’s helpful to understand what daily life actually looks like beyond the shoreline views.

Harrison Township, Michigan Living Guide: Housing Market, Schools, Safety & Weekend Fun

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Where Is Harrison Township, Michigan Located?

Harrison Township is in southeastern Macomb County, bordered by Clinton Township, Mount Clemens, and Lake St. Clair. The township stretches eastward to the lake and is served by major roadways including I-94 and Jefferson Avenue. According to U.S. Census Bureau geographic data, Harrison Township covers approximately 24 square miles, with a mix of residential neighborhoods, waterways, and parkland.

Cost of Living in Harrison Township, Michigan

Living costs in Harrison Township are influenced by proximity to the water and housing type.

Median home value: Approximately $265,000 according to Niche.com
Utilities: Near Michigan averages based on Bureau of Labor Statistics regional data
Transportation: Primarily vehicle-based, with fuel and insurance costs consistent with Southeast Michigan

Overall, Harrison Township’s cost of living aligns closely with Macomb County averages, with waterfront properties typically priced higher than inland homes.

Real Estate & Housing Overview

Harrison Township offers a diverse housing mix, including:

Ranch and split-level homes
Canal-front and lake-adjacent properties
Condominiums and townhomes near marinas
Typical lot sizes ranging from 0.15 to 0.35 acres

Most housing was built between the 1950s and 1990s, with limited new construction primarily focused on infill and redevelopment. According to MLS summaries and Niche.com housing data, buyer interest remains steady, particularly for homes with water access.

Property Taxes in Harrison Township

Property taxes in Harrison Township are calculated using Michigan’s millage system. Per the Michigan Department of Treasury, tax rates include township, county, and school operating millages, and totals vary depending on school district and assessed value. Properties with waterfront features may carry higher taxable values, so individual assessments should always be verified with township records.

Things to Do & Lifestyle

Lifestyle in Harrison Township centers heavily on outdoor and water-based activities. Highlights include:

Lake St. Clair Metropark for walking, cycling, and seasonal events
Boating, fishing, and marinas along the Clinton River and canals
Local waterfront dining and marina-adjacent businesses
Access to regional trails and Macomb County park facilities

According to the Michigan Department of Natural Resources, Lake St. Clair is one of the region’s most active recreational waterways, shaping much of the township’s weekend rhythm.

Schools & Education (Neutral Framing)

Harrison Township is primarily served by L’Anse Creuse Public Schools. Based on GreatSchools.org and Niche.com:

Academic performance varies by school and program
District offerings include standard curriculum and extracurricular options
School assignment depends on specific neighborhood boundaries

These sources provide neutral data points for evaluating educational options within the township.

Pros & Cons of Living in Harrison Township

Pros:

Direct access to Lake St. Clair and waterways
Established neighborhoods with mature landscaping
Strong outdoor and recreational focus
Proximity to Mount Clemens and Clinton Township services

Cons:

Flood insurance may be required for some properties
Limited new construction inventory
Seasonal traffic near marinas and parks
Car-dependent for most errands

Frequently Asked Questions About Living in Harrison Township, Michigan

What is the population of Harrison Township? — Approximately 24,000 residents according to the U.S. Census Bureau
Is Harrison Township on Lake St. Clair? — Yes, it borders Lake St. Clair directly
How far is Harrison Township from Detroit? — About 25 miles northeast
What types of homes are common? — Ranch, split-level, condos, and waterfront homes
Are there parks in Harrison Township? — Yes, including Lake St. Clair Metropark
Is boating popular in Harrison Township? — Yes, due to extensive canal and marina access
How is property tax calculated? — Based on assessed value and local millage rates
Is new housing being built? — Limited, mostly redevelopment or infill
Are there shopping and dining options nearby? — Yes, primarily along Jefferson Avenue and nearby communities
Is Harrison Township walkable? — Some neighborhoods are, but most errands require driving
What school district serves the area? — L’Anse Creuse Public Schools
Are flood zones present? — Some waterfront areas fall within FEMA flood zones
Does Harrison Township have public beaches? — Access is available through Lake St. Clair Metropark
Is the area seasonal? — Activity increases during boating season

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.