Rural life in Clyde Township comes with large lots and lake proximity
In Clyde Township, homes come with a private slice of Michigan wilderness. This rural portion of St. Clair County is less than 20 minutes from the lakeside city of Port Huron and about an hour north of Detroit, but in many places, it feels like the deep country. Backyards can be big enough to own horses, and the Black River is surrounded by forest in this otherwise flat farming community. It’s a quiet area, so you can expect to drive a few minutes to the nearest grocery store and hear the hum of crickets at night. Homebuyers looking here are typically seeking lower prices and more space to spread out, while staying within reach of Lake Huron’s coast.
Lower cost of homes and large yards
According to Tiffany Jahn, a Realtor with Community Choice Realty who has experience in the area, larger yards and lower township taxes are some of Clyde Township's major draws, especially since homes are still within 20 minutes of Port Huron. “It’s farm country, there’s not much there at all,” Jahn says. “But you are close to everything.” The closer you are to Port Huron, the more suburban the neighborhoods feel. Most homes come with at least a half-acre, though some yards can be 10 acres or more.
Housing options range from mid-1900s rustic ranch-style homes to luxury New Traditional builds. Modest homes start in the $100,000s, getting up into the high $300,000s for larger houses or properties with several acres. From the mid-$400,000s to the low $600,000s, you can find modern construction with sprawling yards. If you are hoping to build custom, open lots are still available in between the farmland.
Students are split between Port Huron and Yale schools
Most students in Clyde Township go to schools in the Port Huron Area School District, though the northwest corner is zoned for Yale Public Schools. The Port Huron district is larger and has significantly more course options, but the Yale district has a slightly higher rating. Thanks to the state-wide Schools of Choice program, families can apply across district lines.
Commute to Port Huron in 15 minutes
Although it feels like you are in the country when you drive around Clyde Township, you’re only 10 miles from downtown Port Huron. This waterside city is a popular summer destination, with a lively downtown and access to Lake Huron. “You can go to the beach whenever you want,” Jahn says. “It’s just a 15-minute drive to get there, and to all the festivals and the amazing restaurants. You aren’t far from a lot, but it’s definitely still country.” The larger city of Detroit is 60 miles away, about an hour on Interstate 94.
Access to rural recreation is part of the community's charm
In addition to visiting Lake Huron, part of Clyde Township’s charm is its rural atmosphere. Locals can find several ways to get outdoors:
- Hiking trails, including the Wadhams to Avoca Trail, a 12-mile path built along a historic rail line
- Hunting at the Port Huron State Game Area, which spans over 7,000 acres across several townships
- Playing disc golf and pickleball at Jake Simpson Wilderness Park
Locals have a short drive to restaurants and shopping
The only restaurant in Clyde Township is The Dorsey House, a classic American spot with an extensive whisky selection. The Dorsey House is well known for its historic atmosphere, with roots dating back to 1847, when its original building served as a halfway house. But that’s about it in terms of shopping and dining options. Luckily, Port Huron has plenty of retail, and you don’t have to make it all the way into downtown to shop. Vinckier Foods is a large grocery store just south of Clyde Township, and the 24th Avenue corridor — less than 15 minutes away — is lined with large options like Meijer, Target and Walmart.
Written By
Catherine Lashley