Living in Casco Township (St. Clair County), Michigan: Pros, Cons, Cost of Living & Real Estate Snapshot

By Andrew McManamonPlaces To Live In Michigan

Introduction

If you’re looking for space, quieter surroundings, and a more rural pace of life — but still want access to major highways — Casco Township, Michigan may be on your radar.

Located in St. Clair County, Casco Township offers larger lots, agricultural land, and proximity to both I-94 and Lake St. Clair. It’s not a dense suburban environment. Instead, it’s a community where homes are spread out, traffic is light, and daily life tends to move at a steadier pace.

Let’s take a realistic look at what living here actually involves — from cost of living and housing stock to schools, property taxes, and lifestyle considerations.

Living in Casco Township (St. Clair County), Michigan: Pros, Cons, Cost of Living & Real Estate Snapshot

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Where Is Casco Township, Michigan Located?

Casco Township is located in southern St. Clair County in eastern Michigan. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, the township has a population of just over 4,000 residents.

Geographically, it sits:

North of New Baltimore
South of Richmond
West of the Lake St. Clair shoreline

Interstate 94 runs through the township, providing direct access to Detroit to the southwest and Port Huron to the northeast. According to the Michigan Department of Transportation, I-94 is a primary corridor connecting Southeast Michigan to the Blue Water area.

For commuters working in Macomb County or northern Metro Detroit, that highway access is one of Casco Township’s strongest logistical advantages.

Cost of Living in Casco Township, Michigan

Casco Township’s cost of living reflects its rural setting and housing mix.

According to U.S. Census Bureau data, median home values in Casco Township are generally below many Oakland and Macomb County suburban averages. Niche.com also reports housing costs in the area as moderate compared to statewide figures.

BestPlaces.net indicates that overall cost of living in smaller St. Clair County communities tends to be near or slightly below the national average.

Utilities and transportation costs are consistent with Midwest regional averages, based on data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics.

Because much of the township consists of single-family homes on larger parcels, individual expenses can vary depending on property size, heating systems, and commute distance.

Real Estate & Housing Overview

Casco Township’s housing stock consists primarily of single-family homes on larger lots.

Based on U.S. Census Bureau housing data:

A significant portion of homes were built between the 1970s and early 2000s
Owner-occupied homes make up the majority of the housing inventory
Lot sizes are often larger than suburban subdivisions in neighboring counties

You’ll commonly find:

Ranch-style homes
Bi-level and split-level homes
Homes situated on acreage
Some newer builds scattered throughout the township

Large-scale subdivision-style new construction is limited compared to high-growth suburban areas. Local MLS trends show steady, moderate activity typical of rural townships in Southeast Michigan.

Because of the rural character, buyers often prioritize land size and property layout over proximity to dense retail corridors.

Property Taxes in Casco Township

Property taxes in Casco Township are calculated using Michigan’s standard millage system.

According to the Michigan Department of Treasury, property taxes are based on taxable value multiplied by local millage rates approved by voters. These rates include township, county, and school district millages.

Casco Township publishes current millage information on its official website.

Michigan’s Proposal A limits annual increases in taxable value except in certain circumstances, such as property transfers, as explained by the Michigan Department of Treasury.

Since millage rates can change and may vary depending on school district boundaries, buyers should confirm current rates directly with the township before purchasing.

Things to Do & Lifestyle

Casco Township offers a rural lifestyle rather than a traditional downtown environment.

While the township itself does not have a central downtown district, residents are a short drive from nearby communities like Richmond and New Baltimore for dining and retail.

Outdoor recreation is a key part of the lifestyle. Lake St. Clair is located just east of the township, offering boating and fishing opportunities, according to the Michigan Department of Natural Resources.

St. Clair County also maintains parks and outdoor recreation areas, as listed on the county’s official website.

The overall lifestyle here tends to revolve around:

Outdoor space
Home-based activities
Proximity to regional recreation
Quieter residential surroundings

If you prefer nightlife within walking distance, this may not be the right fit. If you prefer open skies and fewer neighbors, it may check the box.

Schools & Education

Casco Township is primarily served by Anchor Bay School District and Richmond Community Schools, depending on location within the township boundaries.

According to GreatSchools.org, both districts include elementary, middle, and high school campuses serving the region. School ratings vary by campus and are based on academic performance and student progress metrics.

Niche.com provides additional insight into district-level ratings and reviews.

Because township boundaries and school district boundaries do not always perfectly align, it’s important to confirm which district serves a specific property before purchasing.

Pros & Cons of Living in Casco Township

Pros:

Larger lot sizes compared to dense suburban communities (U.S. Census Bureau)
Access to I-94 for commuting (Michigan Department of Transportation)
Proximity to Lake St. Clair recreation (Michigan DNR)
Lower population density
Predominantly owner-occupied housing

Cons:

Limited retail and dining within township limits
Fewer new subdivision-style developments
Car-dependent lifestyle
Limited public transportation options

Frequently Asked Questions About Living in Casco Township, Michigan

Is Casco Township considered rural?

Yes. According to U.S. Census Bureau classifications, it has a low population density and primarily residential and agricultural land use.

How far is Casco Township from Detroit?

Driving via I-94, the township is approximately 40–45 miles northeast of Detroit, depending on starting point and traffic.

Are there waterfront homes in Casco Township?

The township itself is west of Lake St. Clair, so most direct waterfront properties are located in neighboring shoreline communities.

What school districts serve Casco Township?

Anchor Bay School District and Richmond Community Schools serve different portions of the township, according to district boundary maps and GreatSchools.org.

Is property in Casco Township expensive?

Housing costs are generally moderate compared to many Metro Detroit suburbs, according to Niche.com and Census data.

Does Casco Township have a downtown area?

No formal downtown district exists within township limits. Nearby communities provide retail and dining.

Is there highway access nearby?

Yes. Interstate 94 runs directly through the township.

Are there parks nearby?

Yes. St. Clair County and the Michigan DNR manage parks and recreation areas within short driving distance.

Is public transportation available?

Public transit options are limited. Most residents rely on personal vehicles.

What type of homes are most common?

Single-family ranch and split-level homes on larger parcels are most common, based on Census housing data.

Does Casco Township have new construction?

New builds exist but are limited compared to fast-growing suburban municipalities.

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.