Sumpter Township

With cozy homes and sprawling parks situated in the Michigan countryside, Sumpter Township is an exurban retreat that’s still close enough to commute to Dearborn and Detroit. It’s peaceful atmosphere and wide-open greenery is a major reason for its popularity — residents head down country roads every day to dine at local eateries, pick up groceries or take their kids to school. “The people who live there really make it what it is. Everyone helps out one another,” says Realtor Glenn Silvenis of Re/Max, who grew up in Sumpter but now lives in neighboring Belleville. He has more than 30 years of experience in real estate.

Most residents of Sumpter Township return home to midcentury style dwellings built between the 1950s and 70s, including small bungalows, low-flung ranch homes and some split-level and two-story homes. There are also some newer homes that can be found here with attached garages, spacious floorplans and a contemporary look and feel. Lot sizes can range anywhere from less than an acre to more than 10 acres, giving residents plenty of privacy and space to spread out. “The lots are larger than in Belleville, and there’s a wide mix of styles. You’ve got plenty to choose from,” Silvenis says. Home prices are also varied, with homes on small lots selling for as little $125,000 while homes with ample acreage can list for upwards of $300,000. There are also several large mobile home parks in the area for those seeking a more affordable housing option.

Outdoor recreation and natural scenery are a major perk for locals in Sumpter Township. For outdoor activities, Banotai Park is a great place for locals to take a long autumn stroll among the brightly colored trees or spend the day fishing on Banotai Pond. There are also grills and picnic tables for a summer cookout. For larger parks and outdoor recreation, Lower Huron Metropark is at the northeast corner of the township. At 1,256 acres, this sprawling green space offers hiking, biking and canoeing along the river. It’s also got a waterpark with waterslides, splashpads and a lazy river where parkgoers can lay back and drift on a gentle current. More natural scenery and hiking can be found at the southern edge of the township at Crosswinds Marsh, where walking paths cut across lush wetlands. "You can see all sorts of wildlife at Crosswinds, including bald eagles. It's been really well maintained," Silvenis says.

Local restaurants, shops and gas stations can be found tucked away on the township’s country lanes. Bobby McShane’s is a local watering hole known for its wings and ice-cold beer, while those in the mood for takeout can pick up a pie at Red Rooster Pizzeria. The Bake Shoppe, at the intersection of Bemis Road and Savage Road, is the perfect spot to pick up a dozen donuts or place an order for a custom cake. Everyday essentials and groceries can be found at Country Farms Supermarket and home goods can be purchased at Sumpter Ace Hardware. Locals can coast around the rink at Rollers Skatepark on a Friday night — it’s available to rent for birthday parties and events.

Students primarily attend schools in the city of Belleville, just a few miles north, including Savage Road Elementary School, McBride Middle School and Belleville High School, all of which hold B ratings from Niche, an online school review site. Belleville High is ranked among the top echelon of high schools in Wayne County, which stretches across rural townships, the city of Detroit and much of the city’s suburb sprawl.

The township’s proximity to nearby cities is a major draw for residents — it’s about 27 miles from Dearborn and 33 miles from downtown Detroit. It’s also only about 11 miles away from the Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport, making it easy to catch a flight for a vacation or business trip. With homes on large lots near plenty of parks, Sumpter Township might be a place to consider in Detroit’s southwestern exurbs.

Written By

Daniel Berti

Photography Contributed By

Hayley McCormick

Video By

Taylor Gilbert