Moving to Lakefield Township (Saginaw County), Michigan? What to Know About Homes, Schools, Commutes & Lifestyle

By Andrew McManamonPlaces To Live In Michigan

Introduction

If you’ve ever driven through rural Michigan and thought, “This feels like a slower pace of life,” Lakefield Township might be exactly what you’re picturing.

Located in Lapeer County, Lakefield Township offers wide open spaces, agricultural land, and residential properties with more breathing room between neighbors. It’s not a high-density suburb—and that’s precisely the appeal for many homebuyers.

People considering Lakefield Township often prioritize space, quieter surroundings, and proximity to nearby cities like Lapeer and Flint without living directly inside them. This guide covers what you should know before making the move.

Moving to Lakefield Township (Saginaw County), Michigan? What to Know About Homes, Schools, Commutes & Lifestyle

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Where Is Lakefield Township, Michigan Located?

Lakefield Township is located in northern Lapeer County in eastern Michigan. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, Lakefield Township is part of Lapeer County and falls within the broader Flint metropolitan statistical area.

The township sits approximately:

15 miles north of the City of Lapeer
25 miles northeast of Flint
60 miles north of Detroit

Major access routes include M-24 (Lapeer Road), which connects residents south to Lapeer and north toward other rural communities. According to the Michigan Department of Transportation, M-24 serves as a key regional highway corridor.

Because of its location, most residents rely on driving for commuting, shopping, and daily needs.

Cost of Living in Lakefield Township, Michigan

Cost of living in Lakefield Township is influenced largely by housing and transportation patterns typical of rural areas.

According to the U.S. Census Bureau, rural townships in Lapeer County typically have lower housing density and a high percentage of owner-occupied homes.

BestPlaces.net reports that Lapeer County’s overall cost of living index is below the national average, with housing costs being a major factor.

Transportation expenses can vary depending on commute distance. The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that transportation is one of the largest household expenses in regions where driving is the primary mode of travel.

Utilities generally align with Michigan averages, though individual costs vary based on home size, heating system, and utility providers.

Real Estate & Housing Overview

Lakefield Township’s housing market is dominated by single-family homes with larger land parcels.

According to U.S. Census Bureau housing data:

Most homes are detached single-family properties
Many homes were built between the 1970s and early 2000s
Housing density is significantly lower than suburban areas

Common housing types include:

Ranch-style homes
Farmhouses
Custom-built homes on acreage
Manufactured homes on private land

New construction exists but is less frequent compared to suburban developments, largely due to the township’s rural zoning patterns.

MLS listings typically show lower inventory levels than suburban areas, which is consistent with rural housing markets.

Property Taxes in Lakefield Township

Property taxes in Lakefield Township follow Michigan’s statewide property tax structure.

According to the Michigan Department of Treasury, property taxes are calculated using a property’s taxable value and local millage rates set by township, county, and school authorities.

Michigan’s Proposal A limits annual increases in taxable value unless ownership changes or improvements are made.

Millage rates vary depending on property location and school district, so buyers should verify current rates directly with Lapeer County or Lakefield Township officials.

Things to Do & Lifestyle

Life in Lakefield Township revolves around outdoor recreation and nearby community amenities.

The Michigan Department of Natural Resources manages several state recreation and wildlife areas within driving distance, offering opportunities for hiking, hunting, and outdoor recreation.

Residents are also within driving distance of Lake Nepessing, which offers boating and fishing opportunities, according to the Michigan DNR.

Nearby cities such as Lapeer and Otter Lake provide restaurants, shops, and community gathering spaces.

The overall lifestyle in Lakefield Township emphasizes open space, privacy, and access to nature.

Schools & Education

Lakefield Township is served primarily by Lapeer Community Schools and nearby districts depending on exact property location.

According to GreatSchools.org, these districts provide elementary, middle, and high school education for students in the region.

Niche.com provides additional school performance data, ratings, and student experience information.

School district assignments vary depending on exact property boundaries, so verifying district placement is recommended when evaluating homes.

Pros & Cons of Living in Lakefield Township

Pros:

Larger lot sizes and lower housing density (U.S. Census Bureau housing data)
Below-average cost of living compared to national averages (BestPlaces.net)
Access to outdoor recreation and natural areas (Michigan DNR)
Quiet rural environment
Proximity to Lapeer and Flint for services and employment

Cons:

Limited retail, dining, and entertainment within township boundaries
Most errands require driving
Limited public transportation availability
Smaller housing inventory compared to suburban markets

Frequently Asked Questions About Living in Lakefield Township, Michigan

Is Lakefield Township rural?

Yes. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, Lakefield Township is classified as a rural township with low population density.

What county is Lakefield Township in?

Lakefield Township is located in Lapeer County, Michigan.

How far is Lakefield Township from Flint?

It is approximately 25 miles northeast of Flint, depending on the route.

Are there large properties available in Lakefield Township?

Yes. Many homes are located on larger parcels of land, according to U.S. Census Bureau housing data.

Are home prices affordable in Lakefield Township?

Housing costs tend to be lower than national averages in Lapeer County, according to BestPlaces.net.

Do you need a car in Lakefield Township?

Yes. Most residents rely on personal vehicles for transportation due to limited public transit options.

Are there lakes near Lakefield Township?

Yes. Lake Nepessing and other regional lakes are accessible, according to the Michigan DNR.

What types of homes are common?

Detached single-family homes, ranch homes, and homes on acreage are most common, based on Census housing data.

What school districts serve Lakefield Township?

Primarily Lapeer Community Schools, according to GreatSchools.org.

Is Lakefield Township growing?

Population and housing trends can be tracked through the U.S. Census Bureau.

Is Lakefield Township part of Metro Detroit?

It is outside Metro Detroit but within commuting distance to larger regional employment centers.

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.