Nature lovers find peace and peacocks in Scio Township
Just west of Ann Arbor, Scio Township is mainly known as a woodsy escape from the high speed of urban life. “We’re an Ann Arbor suburb, essentially,” says JoAnn Barrett, a Realtor with Howard Hanna. “But here we’ve got larger lots and a semi-rural feel without paying city taxes.” Surrounded by wildlife preserves and the Huron River, Scio attracts nature lovers, who can expect wildlife literally in their backyard. “We have about a dozen deer who just pass through our yard at least twice a day,” says Barrett, who’s served the area since 2006. “Wild peacocks, too!” Due to its proximity to the Huron River, First Street designates Scio Township as having a major risk for flood factors.
The Dexter Huron Metropark features river access in Scio.
The Huron River welcomes kayakers and paddle boarders in Scio.
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Housing ranges from ranches to custom-built estates
With a median construction year around 2003, Homes in Scio tend to be contemporary. Those looking for more traditional midcentury designs could start in Delhi Mills, which has an assortment of ranch-style and split-level homes, generally priced between $350,000 and $630,000. Contemporary, custom-built homes are also available, often featuring views and acreage in exchange for $650,000 to $1.3 million price tags. Haisley is well-known for its upscale contemporary 21st-century subdivisions, featuring amenity-laden properties priced between $800,000 and $1.3 million. “I don’t know that Scio has the affordable housing you might find within the city itself,” says Barrett.
Most Scio homes feature attached garages.
Older homes with more character are also available in Scio.
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Dexter and Ann Arbor schools both earn top marks from Niche
Scio is fairly evenly divided between two public school districts. Dexter Community School District has an A from Niche and was approved for a $242 million bond for facility upgrades in 2025. Ann Arbor Public Schools has an A-plus from Niche, which considers it one of the top 12 school districts in the state. Michigan’s Schools of Choice program allows for open enrollment between districts for qualifying students.
Beacon Elementary School welcomes new students in Scio.
Creekside Intermediate School is ready for class in Scio.
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Most shopping and dining is in Ann Arbor
Most shopping needs are met in Ann Arbor shopping centers like Oak Valley Center and the Briarwood Mall. Big-box stores like Target and Best Buy are available, as is a nearby Meijer for groceries. Established in 1928, Metzger’s German Restaurant is an Ann Arbor community staple. In addition to German standards like bratwurst and schnitzel, Metzger’s serves contemporary American fare like prime rib. The Dexter Brunch House offers a classic diner atmosphere with familiar favorites like omelettes and corned beef sandwiches. They’re open seven days a week, but head in early: as the name suggests, they close after lunch.
The Briarwood Mall welcomes Scio eager shoppers.
Oak Valley Center also features a Target for Scio shoppers' everyday needs.
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Metroparks and preserves provide water access and wilderness
Snug against the Huron River, the Dexter-Huron Metropark offers water access and a variety of trails and paths surrounded by urban scenery and wilderness alike. The Metropark also provides access to the Huron River Water Trail, which spans over a hundred miles from the coast of Lake Erie to the river’s end at Proud Lake. The Fox Science Preserve has almost 70 acres of untouched landscape. Once the site of a gravel pit, hikers and amateur adventurers regularly visit, often finding fossils trapped in limestone.
The Huron River Water Trail runs along the river and through many parks in Scio.
The Huron River Water Trail takes you on an adventure from Scio to Ann Arbor.
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Interstate 94 connects to Ann Arbor and Detroit
The nearest highway is Interstate 94, which provides easy access to Ann Arbor, about 8 miles away, or Detroit, about 50 miles away. Public transit isn’t available in Scio, so residents are car-bound. “There isn’t much in the way of walkability,” says Barrett. “We’re within spitting distance of Ann Arbor, and that’s what people want, so they’re happy to make the drive.”
Written By
Phil Keeling
Photography Contributed By
Paul Vilela
Video By
Luke Basinger
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First floor-level condominium, end unit offers comfort and convenience. Option furnished / unfurnished. Enjoy easy first-floor living, two spacious bedrooms with lots of closet space, walk-in closet, two full bathrooms, large living room area, dining room, kitchen with all appliances included, microwave, dishwasher, stove/oven and refrigerator. Spacious laundry facility with storage across the
Welcome home to 3037 Walnut Ridge, one of Ann Arbor's finest communities. Originally built by Toll Brothers, this remarkable two story home in the popular Walnut Ridge Subdivision is move in ready and thoughtfully designed for every stage of life. Enter through the front door to a grand foyer with hardwood floors, a curved staircase, crystal chandelier, and private sitting room. The gourmet
Welcome to Arbor Chase! This beautifully maintained second-level condo offers modern style, comfortable living, and low-maintenance convenience in a desirable west Ann Arbor location. Built in 2018, this 2-bedroom, 2-bath home features an open floor plan with 10-foot ceilings, hardwood floors, recessed lighting, and abundant natural light. The spacious kitchen offers granite countertops, ample
First floor-level condominium, end unit offers comfort and convenience. Option furnished / unfurnished. Enjoy easy first-floor living, two spacious bedrooms with lots of closet space, walk-in closet, two full bathrooms, large living room area, dining room, kitchen with all appliances included, microwave, dishwasher, stove/oven and refrigerator. Spacious laundry facility with storage across the
With over 8,000 sq. ft. of finished living space, this expansive home in the desirable Walnut Ridge neighborhood is a mint-condition gem with room for everyone! Its nicely appointed footprint features extensive use of hardwood flooring, beautiful trim and molding, and windows galore. It has a front-and-center Great room with soaring ceilings, formal living and dining rooms, and a chef's kitchen
Over 3 acres with frontage on the Huron River, this exceptional parcel offers a rare opportunity to create a custom home in one of the area's most sought-after settings. With a peaceful, natural backdrop and direct connection to the water, the property invites a design that embraces its surroundings--whether that's expansive windows, outdoor living spaces, or a private retreat immersed in
Welcome home to 3037 Walnut Ridge, one of Ann Arbor's finest communities. Originally built by Toll Brothers, this remarkable two story home in the popular Walnut Ridge Subdivision is move in ready and thoughtfully designed for every stage of life. Enter through the front door to a grand foyer with hardwood floors, a curved staircase, crystal chandelier, and private sitting room. The gourmet
Welcome to Kelly Green Commons, one of Ann Arbor's most charming west side condo communities. This contemporary 3-bedroom, 1.5-bath townhouse offers the best of low-maintenance living without sacrificing space, style, or convenience. Step inside to soaring vaulted ceilings, an open floor plan, and beautiful Somerset maple hardwood floors throughout the main level, freshly complemented by new
The Brooke is a ranch home with 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, and more than 1,600 sq. ft. of living space. Interior features include a kitchen and eat-in nook, great room, mud room with a walk-in closet, laundry room, primary suite with a private full bath and walk-in closet, and two secondary bedrooms. Looking for a new home in the Ann Arbor area? Contact our sales team to learn more about the
WELCOME HOME! This beautiful condo truly shows like the model! Built in 2018, this move-in ready 2-bedroom, 2-full bath second-floor home offers soaring 11-foot ceilings, rich hardwood floors, and stylish upgrades throughout. Step inside to discover an oversized walk-in entry closet providing exceptional storage for coats, shoes, and seasonal items. Upstairs, a versatile loft creates the perfect
Move in ready 3 Bedroom 3 Bathroom colonial home on Ann Arbors Westside in Lower property taxes Scio Township. Whole home was freshly painted and show like new. Hard wood floors throughout the home, Newer appliances, Newer on demand Hot water heater, Newer Roof and HVAC! Large finished Walk out basement with extra high ceilings, bathroom and patio. Large private backyard with partial fence and
Enjoy true single-level living in this beautifully maintained ranch-style condo at Arbor Chase, with everything on the main floor and no interior stairs to navigate. Built in 2018, this 2-bedroom, 2-bath home offers 1,319 sq. ft. of thoughtfully designed living space with an open, comfortable layout that feels both polished and practical. One of the standout features is the size of the bedrooms.
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Prime opportunity in desirable Scio Township! This 13.66-acre undeveloped parcel offers outstanding visibility along Jackson Road, with over 13,000 vehicles passing daily—making it an ideal location for a variety of future uses. Conveniently located with easy access to I-94 and just west of Ann Arbor, as well as close proximity to the charming community of Dexter, this property combines
**OPEN SUN 8/2, 2-4PM**This modern colonial in The Meadowinds checks all the boxes for Buyers looking for a sizeable, updated home in the Ann Arbor Public School district with low Scio taxes. On a cul-de-sac lot with SW-facing back yard and deck, this home features a beautiful, updated kitchen with granite, glass-front, soft-close and dove tailed cabinetry, tons of counter space, crown molding
Occupancy start 9/18/2026. Fantastic newer home available for long term lease. Spacious 4 bedrooms 2.5 bath colonial. Welcoming 2 story foyer leads to flex space/home office, large family room opens to dining area and upgraded kitchen w/ huge island. Luxury master suite features walk-in closet and private master bath. Convenient 2nd floor laundry. The second level loft is a great place to make
Welcome to Woodview Commons, where exceptional living meets convenience in the Ann Arbor area. Just minutes from downtown off of Jackson Road, our Ann Arbor apartment neighborhood offers a variety of living options including 1, 2 & 3 bedroom apartment homes, townhomes, and ranch-style residences. Select floor plans feature an additional den or bonus room providing residents with added flexibility
Our thoughtfully crafted two-bedroom, two-bath and two-bedroom, two-bath plus den ranch-style floor plans provide nearly 1,500 square feet of beautifully designed living space. Every residence showcases premium finishes, open-concept layouts, and attention to detail at every turn.Enjoy the ease of an attached two car garage, along with a private patio that expands your living space and brings the
Welcome to The Park at Sagebrush Circle, where modern living meets serene surroundings. Nestled in a beautiful neighborhood setting, our community offers the perfect blend of nature and convenience. Our spacious one-, two-, and three-bedroom apartments offer a perfect blend of comfort and style, with features to make your everyday living experience effortless. Enjoy open-concept living areas,
Arbor Club Apartments wants to welcome you home! Arbor Club Apartments, for rent in Ann Arbor, Michigan, is located just off Scio Ridge Road and Chase Boulevard with easy access to I-94. Our uniquely designed apartment homes feature large 1-, 2-, and 3-bedroom floor plans with fabulous open kitchens and energy efficient appliances along with wide open rooms perfect for entertaining. With an
Arbor Landings Apartments offers 1, 2, and 3 bedroom apartments in Ann Arbor, MI with spacious floor plans, modern features, and convenient access to major destinations. Located near I-94 and public transportation, the community places residents close to downtown Ann Arbor, shopping, dining, parks, and the University of Michigan. Apartment homes feature fully equipped kitchens with microwaves,
Discover Award-Winning Living at Cambridge Club Apartments in Ann Arbors West SideWelcome to Cambridge Club Apartments, an award-winning apartment community in the heart of Ann Arbors West Side. Nestled in a prime location, our apartments provide easy access to Ann Arbor, Dexter, and all of Washtenaw County's top destinations, including major employers, shopping centers, and schools. Enjoy
Nestled within a lush, woodland setting of Scio Township, the winding pathways within this community lead to a sparkling pool, community clubhouse, basketball court and large playground, all of which are hugged by green open lawn spaces.
Now Leasing: Modern 1-&2- Bedroom Apartments Near Downtown Ann ArborSHORT TERM - WINTER SEMESTER OPTIONS AVAILABLEExperience stylish living just five minutes from downtown Ann Arbor, the University of Michigan, and local stadiums. Convenient access to I-94 and M-14 makes commuting easy.3.1mi to Central UM Campus5.5mi to North UM CampusAVAILABLE FLOOR
Property Id: 2818266 New Construction home at Ann Arbor. The Austin plan B has an open concept Kitchen, Nook & Great Room that would be perfect to spend time with loved ones. 4-bedroom 2.5 bath 2907 sq feet home. Corner lot, 9-foot ceiling, quartz countertops, Upgraded cabinets throughout, 42-inch upper kitchen cabinets, new appliances,gas fireplace, extended driveway. Enjoy a cozy study to
Property Id: 2797890 Newly remodeled unit in a duplex near downtown Dexter. Two-bedroom, two-bath with in-unit laundry has a large deck in back overlooking an expansive yard, and a cozy front porch with a swing. Available now.
Property Id: 119009 Great great location in the west side of Ann Arbor. Beautiful and quiet community. The two bedrooms' apartment is on the ground floor with a porch to outside. The apartment has neutral color painting inside. Very close to supermarkets, restaurants and bus lines. Ten minutes' driving to downtown Ann Arbor, UM campus and hospital. Easy access to I-94. Water, sewer, exterior
Escape the busy downtown streets in this Northwest Ann Arbor neighborhood. Abbot's rural back roads lead to single-family homes tucked away in quiet cul-de-sac communities. Abbot students attend A-rated Ann Arbor public schools beginning in Kindergarten at Abbot Elementary. While neighborhood residents may not be in the heart of the city, Justin Ham, an associate broker with Ham Realty Group, says the area is great because residents can “enjoy all Ann Arbor has to offer without all of the traffic.” <br><br>Open farmland and natural beauty surround the flat residential streets in Abbot. Two-story single-family homes with spacious green lawns offer a quiet suburban retreat from the busy streets of Downtown Ann Arbor. Throughout the neighborhood, home styles range from prairie and ranch-style homes built in the 1970s to new custom builds with craftsman features. Subdivisions like Pine Ridge Court offer new construction mansions with sleek modern designs and luxury amenities. Meanwhile, Abbot’s rural cul-de-sac communities sit outside planned developments and yards big enough for many residents to need a riding lawn mower. While the non-HOA areas often offer larger yards, all homes have backyards big enough to add a pool and still have room for a playset. Most three-bedroom homes list between $450,000 and $700,000 in Abbot, but some new luxury homes cost closer to $1 million. <br><br>Abbot students attend outstanding Ann Arbor public schools, all of which score an overall A or higher on Niche. Kindergarteners can take the short bus ride to Abbot Elementary School where they can learn to read with the encouragement of friends through the school’s Reading Buddies program. Only 10 minutes away, Forsythe Middle Schoolers can join the synchronized swim team or compete in regional tournaments on the robotics team. Skyline High School offers four magnet programs where students can apply to take classes in health and medicine, engineering and programming, communication and media or business and marketing. <br><br>The busy Interstate 94 and Highway 14 hug the neighborhood’s south border. From I-94, residents can access the Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport in about 30 minutes. Downtown Ann Arbor and University Hospital are less than 15 minutes away on Dexter-Ann Arbor Road. While there are no public bus lines running through Abbot, Dexter-Ann Arbor Road has bike lanes that connect downtown. <br><br>Metzger’s has been an Ann Arbor staple since 1928. Serving a long menu full of authentic German dishes, this little bier garden serves classics like cabbage rolls and potato pancakes. Next door, the nearest Grand Traverse Pie Company is a beloved Michigan chain full of massive cheesecakes, tempting brownies, and the locally famous Michigan Montmorency cherry pie. Ham says Weber’s Restaurant is another Ann Arbor favorite with “one of the best prime ribs in town.” Down the road, Abbot residents have convenient access to groceries at Meijer, a supermarket chain with groceries and all the everyday essentials. <br><br>Look for spring wildflowers along the woodland trail in Hollywood Park. This small but welcomed new addition offers a spacious playground right next to Abbot Elementary, where kids can climb on the monkey bars and run out their energy after school. Residents can head to Dolph Nature Area for over 75 acres of tree-covered hiking trails, prime local fishing spots and beautiful lakeside views. The unpaved trails wind around two lakes and make for an excellent birdwatching experience or peaceful morning stroll.
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