The Truth About Burnside Township, Michigan: Neighborhoods, Prices, Taxes & Things To Do

By Andrew McManamonPlaces To Live In Michigan

Introduction

If your ideal Michigan home includes wide-open space, fewer neighbors, and a quieter daily rhythm, Burnside Township, Michigan may already be on your shortlist.

Located in Lapeer County, Burnside Township offers a rural environment with residential properties spread across larger parcels of land. Many buyers consider Burnside Township when they want more privacy, lower-density development, and access to nearby cities like Imlay City and Lapeer.

This guide walks through what living in Burnside Township is really like — including housing, cost of living, taxes, schools, and lifestyle — so you can make an informed relocation decision.

The Truth About Burnside Township, Michigan: Neighborhoods, Prices, Taxes & Things To Do

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Where Is Burnside Township, Michigan Located?

Burnside Township is located in eastern Lapeer County in southeast Michigan. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, it is one of several townships that make up the county’s rural residential and agricultural landscape.

Burnside Township is approximately located:

10 miles east of Lapeer
5 miles north of Imlay City
35 miles north of Sterling Heights
55 miles north of downtown Detroit

The township is accessible via nearby I-69, which connects Lapeer County to Flint, Port Huron, and Metro Detroit. M-53 (Van Dyke Road), another major route, also provides regional access, according to the Michigan Department of Transportation.

This location makes Burnside Township appealing for those who want rural living while maintaining access to major highways.

Cost of Living in Burnside Township, Michigan

Cost of living in Burnside Township is largely driven by housing and transportation.

According to the U.S. Census Bureau, rural townships like Burnside Township typically consist of owner-occupied single-family homes on larger parcels. BestPlaces.net reports that Lapeer County overall has a cost of living below the national average, particularly in housing.

Transportation costs can vary depending on commute distance. The Bureau of Labor Statistics notes that transportation is a major household expense category in areas without public transit access.

Utilities and general living costs in the region are typically in line with Michigan statewide averages, based on Midwest regional data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics.

Overall, Burnside Township offers a cost structure that reflects rural housing patterns and vehicle-based transportation.

Real Estate & Housing Overview

Housing in Burnside Township primarily consists of detached single-family homes.

Based on U.S. Census Bureau housing characteristics for rural Michigan townships:

Most homes are located on larger lots or acreage
Housing stock includes homes built from the mid-1900s through the early 2000s
Newer custom homes and modular homes are also present

Common housing types include:

Ranch-style homes
Two-story homes on acreage
Farmhouses and rural residential properties
Custom-built homes

Compared to suburban areas, Burnside Township has fewer subdivisions and higher overall land availability per property.

MLS listings for Lapeer County indicate steady rural housing demand, though inventory levels are typically lower than suburban areas due to fewer total homes.

Property Taxes in Burnside Township

Property taxes in Burnside Township are calculated based on Michigan’s statewide property tax system.

According to the Michigan Department of Treasury, property taxes are determined using a property’s taxable value multiplied by local millage rates. These millage rates fund schools, county services, and local township operations.

Michigan’s Proposal A limits annual increases in taxable value unless ownership changes or improvements are made, according to the Michigan Department of Treasury.

Because millage rates vary depending on school district and voter-approved measures, buyers should verify current millage rates with Burnside Township and Lapeer County directly.

Things to Do & Lifestyle

Life in Burnside Township centers around outdoor access and nearby small-town amenities.

The surrounding Lapeer County area offers parks, trails, and outdoor recreation opportunities. The Michigan Department of Natural Resources manages several nearby recreation areas and wildlife areas throughout the county.

Nearby Imlay City provides restaurants, shopping, and services, according to the City of Imlay City official website.

Residents also have access to lakes, golf courses, and parks throughout Lapeer County, supporting a lifestyle focused on outdoor recreation and quieter residential living.

For broader retail, entertainment, and dining options, residents often travel to Lapeer, Flint, or Macomb County communities.

Schools & Education

Burnside Township is served by nearby public school districts, including Imlay City Community Schools and North Branch Area Schools, depending on exact location boundaries.

According to GreatSchools.org, both districts include elementary, middle, and high school facilities serving surrounding township areas.

Niche.com provides ratings and community feedback for these districts based on academic performance, teacher reviews, and extracurricular activities.

School district boundaries should always be verified with local district offices or township officials.

Pros & Cons of Living in Burnside Township

Pros:

Larger properties and lower housing density (U.S. Census Bureau housing patterns)
Rural setting with agricultural and open land surroundings
Access to nearby cities like Imlay City and Lapeer
Convenient access to I-69 for commuting (Michigan Department of Transportation)
Availability of custom homes and acreage properties

Cons:

Limited retail and commercial development within the township itself
Most errands require driving
Limited public transportation options
Lower housing inventory compared to suburban areas

Frequently Asked Questions About Living in Burnside Township, Michigan

Is Burnside Township a rural area?

Yes. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, Burnside Township is classified as a rural township with residential and agricultural land uses.

What county is Burnside Township in?

Burnside Township is located in Lapeer County, Michigan.

How far is Burnside Township from Detroit?

Burnside Township is approximately 55 miles north of downtown Detroit, depending on route.

Are there homes with acreage in Burnside Township?

Yes. Many properties include larger lot sizes or acreage, according to U.S. Census Bureau housing patterns.

What school districts serve Burnside Township?

Residents are typically served by Imlay City Community Schools or North Branch Area Schools, according to GreatSchools.org.

Is Burnside Township close to major highways?

Yes. I-69 and M-53 provide access to surrounding cities and employment areas, according to the Michigan Department of Transportation.

Are there parks and outdoor recreation nearby?

Yes. Lapeer County and Michigan DNR facilities provide outdoor recreation opportunities.

What types of homes are common in Burnside Township?

Detached single-family homes, farmhouses, and custom homes are most common.

Is Burnside Township densely populated?

No. It has a lower population density compared to suburban cities, according to U.S. Census Bureau township classifications.

Do you need a car in Burnside Township?

Yes. Most transportation is vehicle-based due to limited public transit availability.

Is Burnside Township growing?

Population trends and housing growth can be tracked using U.S. Census Bureau data.

To Conclude:

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