ANN ARBOR TOWNSHIP, MI
ANN ARBOR TOWNSHIP, MI
Ann Arbor Township, MI: a scenic, low-density community next to Ann Arbor with riverfront nature, trail access, and a “quiet-but-close” lifestyle
HIGHLIGHTS
Ann Arbor Township (officially the Charter Township of Ann Arbor) is a primarily residential township in Washtenaw County that borders the City of Ann Arbor and offers a quieter, more nature-forward alternative to living inside the city limits. It was organized in 1827 and remains separate from the City of Ann Arbor even though the two are closely connected geographically and in day-to-day life.
People choose Ann Arbor Township when they want to be minutes from downtown Ann Arbor, the University of Michigan, and major employers—but prefer more space, fewer crowds, and a greener setting. The township includes a mix of established neighborhoods, wooded roads, river corridors, and pockets with a more rural feel, depending on where you are.
What Ann Arbor Township is known for
1) “Close to Ann Arbor…without living in the bustle.”
Ann Arbor Township is popular because it offers proximity to Ann Arbor’s downtown restaurants, campus life, and cultural events while feeling more calm and residential at home. Many residents love being able to enjoy Ann Arbor whenever they want—then come back to quieter streets and a lower-density environment.
2) The Huron River corridor and water-adjacent nature.
The Huron River runs through the area and helps shape the township’s outdoor lifestyle. River corridors, wooded sections, and nearby dams and ponds create scenic drives, walking opportunities, and a strong “nature is nearby” feel. If you love places where a quick walk can feel like a mini nature getaway, this is a big part of the appeal.
3) Trail and park access (great for walkers, runners, and cyclists).
Ann Arbor Township sits near some of the most loved outdoor spaces in the Ann Arbor area. Residents often build routines around trails, riverfront paths, and nearby parks. Even if you’re not a hardcore runner or biker, it’s the kind of place where getting outside feels easy.
4) Distinct pockets and “local place names” you’ll hear.
Because the township has a long history and borders Ann Arbor in a unique way, locals sometimes refer to areas by recognizable place names and pockets rather than just “Ann Arbor Township” as a single vibe. Depending on where you are, the lifestyle can lean more wooded and private, more river-and-trail oriented, or more “quiet neighborhood close to everything.”
5) A small-community feel with strong stability.
Ann Arbor Township is not a high-turnover area. Many people move here with the intention to stay, which supports a stable, established neighborhood feel. It often appeals to buyers who want a long-term home base rather than a short stop.
Living in Ann Arbor Township: vibe, lifestyle, and who it fits best
Ann Arbor Township tends to feel scenic, calm, and convenience-adjacent, and it’s often a great fit for people who want:
Quiet residential living near Ann Arbor and the University of Michigan
More space and a less “city-dense” environment
Easy access to riverfront nature, trails, and parks
A home base that supports commuting while still feeling peaceful
A community that feels established, green, and consistent over time
If your ideal week includes quick access to Ann Arbor’s dining and culture, but your ideal home life is quieter and more private, Ann Arbor Township fits that balance well.
Real estate and home styles in Ann Arbor Township
Ann Arbor Township is known for variety rather than one dominant housing style. Buyers commonly find:
Established single-family neighborhoods with classic Michigan suburban layouts
Custom homes on larger lots, especially in more wooded pockets
Areas where privacy, trees, and setbacks are a major part of the appeal
Select properties where proximity to the Huron River corridor influences the “feel” (and sometimes the value)
A helpful note for buyers: in Ann Arbor Township, micro-location matters a lot. Two homes with the same square footage can feel like completely different lifestyles depending on whether you’re closer to trails and river corridors, closer to Ann Arbor amenities, or in a more secluded pocket.
Things to do near Ann Arbor Township: trails, nature, and quick access to Ann Arbor
One of the biggest advantages of Ann Arbor Township is how easily it connects to both outdoor life and city life:
Enjoy river-adjacent parks and nature areas nearby
Run, bike, or walk trails that connect into the greater Ann Arbor area
Pop into downtown Ann Arbor for restaurants, events, and shopping
Spend weekends in Kerrytown, at markets, on campus, or exploring nearby parks
Keep your home life calmer while still having “stuff to do” close by
Frequently Asked Questions About Living in Ann Arbor Township, MI
Is Ann Arbor Township the same as Ann Arbor?
No. Ann Arbor Township is a separate township that borders the City of Ann Arbor. You can be very close to the city’s amenities while living outside the city limits.
What is Ann Arbor Township known for?
A quieter, lower-density lifestyle next to Ann Arbor, plus easy access to the Huron River corridor, trails, and nearby nature areas.
Is Ann Arbor Township a good place to live?
It can be a great fit if you want proximity to Ann Arbor without the busiest parts of city living, and you value green space, privacy, and a calmer residential setting.
Do kids in Ann Arbor Township go to Ann Arbor schools?
Many residents are served by Ann Arbor Public Schools, but school boundaries can vary by address. It’s always smart to confirm the exact school assignment for any specific home.
What kind of homes are in Ann Arbor Township?
A mix—established neighborhoods, custom homes, and properties that range from more suburban-feeling pockets to more wooded, private settings.
Is Ann Arbor Township walkable?
“Walkability” depends on the pocket. Some areas are closer to trails and parks and support walking and biking routines, while other areas are more spread out and car-dependent.
Want to explore Ann Arbor Township homes that match your lifestyle?
If you want to call Ann Arbor Township, MI home, reach out to us to get started today!
Jim Shaffer and Associates, powered by Good Company, has been helping Metro Detroit move since 1999. The team of 51 agents and staff closes an average of 850 transactions each year and has surpassed $2 billion in career sales, making them the #1 team in Oakland County, the top team in Ferndale, Royal Oak, Oak Park, and Hazel Park, and one of the most trusted names in Metro Detroit real estate. Their reputation for results and client care has earned recognition from RealTrends America’s Best, Hour Detroit All Stars, and the Detroit Free Press Top Workplaces.
With over 2,700 Google reviews, 956 Zillow reviews, and decades of local experience, Jim Shaffer and Associates has built a legacy of trust and community in Ferndale and across Metro Detroit. Their team specializes in guiding first-time home buyers, first-time sellers, move-up buyers, and downsizers through every step of the process. From Oakland to Wayne and Macomb Counties and all surrounding cities, Jim Shaffer and Associates continues to set the standard for exceptional service and proven results in Southeast Michigan real estate.
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