With around 1,300 residents, Freedom Township is the most-sparsely populated township in Washtenaw County. “People who might not be able to afford Ann Arbor’s high prices often consider Freedom Township,” says Pat Fielder, a retired real estate agent who has lived in the area for more than 60 years. “They can still enjoy what the city has to offer, and it’s more peaceful here, with more open space.” About 70% of Freedom’s land is used for agriculture or parks, and the only significant housing development is centered on Pleasant Lake. The township’s CAP Index Crime Score is 1 out of 10, compared to the national average of 4. With Ann Arbor 16 miles away, residents tend to visit the closer-by small city of Manchester for shopping and community events.
Agriculture is the top employer in Freedom Township.
Freedom Township is the most sparsely populated township in Ann Arbor area.
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Rural farmland and lakeside homes
The houses in Freedom Township were built over two centuries. Farmhouses from the 1800s, ranch styles from the mid-1900s, and modern construction are all scattered among the rolling farmland. The only concentrated development is the community around Pleasant Lake, which has private roads and a property owners association. Smaller homes and empty plots of land range from $250,000 to $400,000. Properties with lakeshore frontage or more than 10 acres typically cost $600,000 to $800,000. Homes spend an average of 31 days on the market. “It’s always a slower market when you move away from your major city center,” says John Ramirez, a Realtor with Real Estate One who has over 20 years of experience in the area. “You aren’t getting offers in a day out here like you do in Ann Arbor.”Floodplains surround the township’s creeks and Pleasant Lake, though most homes are unaffected. Freedom Township does not have access to public water and sewer facilities, so most properties use well water and private septic systems. In addition, property taxes are significantly lower here than in the city limits of Ann Arbor or Manchester.
Pleasant Lake in Freedom Township has quiet neighborhoods with varied homes.
Freedom Township has large modern homes ideal for growing families.
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The county’s second-smallest school district
The majority of the township is served by Manchester Community Schools, although some sections are zoned for Chelsea or Saline schools. Manchester is the second smallest district in Washtenaw County, with just under 800 students across its three schools. Luther C. Klager Elementary School serves grades pre-kindergarten through second grade. The school gets a B-minus rating on Niche. Riverside Intermediate for grades third through sixth receives a B. And Manchester Junior & Senior High School earns a B-minus. Manchester Community Schools is part of the South & West Washtenaw Consortium, a program that allows students to attend elective courses at nearby high schools. Options include photography, agriculture and robotics.
Riverside Intermediate School near Freedom Township features a covered entrance.
Manchester High, serving Freedom Township, ranks 9th for athletics in Washtenaw County.
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Local farm stands and outdoor adventures
Recreational activities in Freedom Township include hiking at nature preserves, taking horseback lessons at nearby stables and shopping at local farm stands. “It’s the peace, quiet and scenery that draws people out that way,” Ramirez says. “It’s a more rural lifestyle.” In the summer, it's hard to find a parking spot at White Lotus Farm, which has a gourmet market, landscaped gardens and barnyard animals. In the fall, Alber Orchard & Cider Mill is a go-to for hayrides, apple picking and corn mazes. The township is also home to several historic churches, including Bethel United Church of Christ, built in 1840.
White Lotus Farms offers more than fresh products to Freedom Township locals.
Take horseback riding lessons at Renaissance Equestrian Center in Freedom Township.
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Fish frys and karaoke nights at dive bars
Located at the corner of Freedom, Lodi, Bridgewater and Saline Townships, the Bridgewater Bank Tavern is a central meeting place for southern Washtenaw County. It’s one of the only bars in the area and is known for its lively Friday fish fries. A locally and women-owned business, Bridgewater is a staple of the community. During the holidays, it holds a charity toy drive, and all year-round, hometown talent is showcased at live-music nights. “If you want to see our local culture, just head over to Bridgewater,” says Jackelyn Martin, the communications executive director with Saline Area Schools who grew up in the area. A few miles north, Stivers Restaurant serves homestyle breakfast and stays open late for karaoke nights.
City amenities in Manchester, Chelsea and Ann Arbor
Freedom Township has one small grocery store at Pleasant Lake, so locals have to drive for a few miles to run errands. The township is located between the small cities of Chelsea and Manchester. For most, Manchester is a closer drive—typically less than 5 miles. Manchester has a walkable downtown with a brewery, a few restaurants and a weekly farmers market. Manchester Market is the city’s small grocery store, offering fresh produce, high-quality meats, authentic Italian gelato and pantry staples. Chelsea, about 10 miles north, has a larger grocery store, a wider restaurant selection and a hospital.Downtown Ann Arbor is 16 miles away. Unlike some of the other nearby townships, Freedom does not have any major roads. The commute into Ann Arbor typically takes 30 minutes but is usually traffic-free. The Detroit Metropolitan Airport is 35 miles away.
Freedom Township residents shop at locally owned stores in nearby Manchester.
Freedom Township locals visit Stivers Restaurant for homestyle American meals.
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