Lower taxes contribute to a quickly growing population
Primarily fields and farms, Berlin Township is an area people used to drive through rather than stop in. In the past 20 years, however, the neighborhood has experienced a need for more housing, brought on by those looking for peaceful living in a calm and quiet location. "It's remote, but it doesn't bother the people living there," says Tom Wagner, Realtor at Howard Hanna Real Estate Services. "People seem to gravitate towards rural areas with less congestion and more elbow room." With a spread-out community and minimal action, the township has a CAP Index crime score of 2 out of 10, half the national average of 4. According to Wagner, "The biggest draw of Berlin Township, however, is that it's the most northern township of Monroe County. Our taxes are much cheaper here in Monroe than in Wayne County." While Berlin Township is still a sparse area of just 10,000 people, its lower taxes contributed to a 40% population increase from 2000 to 2020.
Having a longer commute is worth it for many
Interstate 75 and North Dixie Highway intersect the township, leading north to Detroit and south to Monroe and Toledo. Those commuting into Detroit can make the 30-mile drive in 30 minutes. Those commuting to the large employers in Monroe, like ProMedica Monroe Regional Hospital and DTE Energy, can expect a 20-minute drive for the 14-mile route. "The area is farther out, but it's still so accessible," Wagner says. "Maybe you're adding 10 or 15 minutes to your commute, but you're saving $200 to $300 monthly on property taxes." A few employers are in the area, including two large quarries and a few distribution centers near the highway. Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport is 20 miles northwest and is a hub for many airlines, including Delta and Spirit.
Saving on taxes opens more housing options
Ranch-style homes and farmhouses along county roads make up the older housing selection in Berlin Township, ranging in price from $50,000 to $315,000. A few newer homes with modern Craftsman and new traditional designs are on the county roads, but most are in developments with upwards of 100 homes each. Prices start at around $265,000 and top out at $590,000 for houses with brick and vinyl facades, multi-pitched roofs and attached garages. "The new construction is bringing in more first-time homebuyers, growing families and people upgrading from their first house," Wagner says. Because of Berlin Township's open space, new houses and plots of land are going on the market, with a few houses selling before construction is complete. According to Wagner, "People looking in Berlin Township can bump their price up compared to Wayne County. Your money goes farther on payments in Monroe, and sometimes that extra $20,000 saved on property taxes opens a lot of opportunities."
Small restaurants in town and big shopping in nearby cities
While Berlin Township has grown in the past 20 years in terms of housing developments and population, the number of restaurants and shopping destinations has remained the same. "Traditionally, it was a farming community, but now it's become a bedroom community because of its access to Interstate 75," says Steve Hudkins, broker and owner of Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Hudkins. "If you're looking for something to do, you're going elsewhere for it." Walmart, Target and shopping malls are north towards Detroit. Fast-food restaurants and national chains are around the shopping centers, and a limited number of small restaurants and bars are back in the township. Big Al's Greens & Grille has brunch, lunch and dinner options for those stopping in for food or finishing up a round of golf at the attached course. The 18-hole course also hosts tournaments and a golf academy for young learners of the sport. Lee's Market Jerky has beef, poultry and big game jerky made in-house but also sells raw meats like steak, pork chops and sausages for backyard grilling sessions.
Hearts racing with stock car racing
The Huron River is a natural border along the northern end of the township and a destination for canoeing, kayaking and fishing. In Monroe County, anglers can catch and keep their fish with the proper licenses. Robert Laginess Park is a small green space with a swing set, playground and walking trails. Newport Firefighter's Association Park has a baseball field and hall for rent for events like graduations, birthdays and company picnics. Flat Rock Speedway, a stock car and go-kart racing track, brings a bit of noise to the quiet neighborhood. The track has a figure-eight loop, concession stands and stadium-style seating for enjoying a display of excitement.
Preparing for careers and college at Airport High
Berlin Township does not have a school district of its own. Instead, it is divided between Jefferson Schools and Airport Community Schools. Most students attend Airport Community School, beginning at Fred W. Ritter Elementary School. It teaches prekindergarten through fourth grade and is rated a B-plus by Niche. From fifth to eighth grade, students learn at Wagar Middle and Junior High School, rated a B-minus and B, respectively. Airport High School is rated a B-minus and offers 13 advanced placement classes as well as select career readiness programs.
