Located in the Detroit River, Grosse Ile Township stands as Michigan’s most populated island community, offering a distinctive blend of waterfront living and small-town character that is increasingly uncommon. This township, incorporated in 1914, has developed a reputation as a Downriver community for its 10,409 residents who value the island’s natural beauty and close community atmosphere.
Access to Grosse Ile
Access to this island comes via two bridges: a county-owned toll-free bridge at the southern end and the privately owned Grosse Ile Toll Bridge to the north.
Recently, residents demonstrated their commitment to maintaining their unique lifestyle by approving a property tax millage to fund nearly $60 million in bonds for purchasing and renovating the historic toll bridge, which has connected the island to the mainland since 1913. This investment reflects the community’s dedication to preserving both its accessibility and distinctive character for generations to come.
Geography and Island Layout
The township encompasses more than a dozen islands, with the largest—called “The Big Island” by locals—spanning approximately 9.6 square miles. This geographic isolation has helped Grosse Ile maintain its distinctive character throughout its rich history since its incorporation over a century ago. The island’s unique position in the Detroit River, just 12 miles south of Detroit, provides residents with the perfect balance of secluded island living while remaining connected to metropolitan amenities.
Beyond the main island, smaller satellites like Elba, Round, Meso, Hickory, and Swan Islands contribute to the township’s diverse ecosystem. Many of these remain undeveloped, preserving the natural landscape that defines the region. The township’s historical significance extends beyond its scenic beauty—the Grosse Ile Municipal Airport (KONZ) once served as a U.S. Navy base for 40 years before transferring to township control in 1970, adding another dimension to the island’s history.
Real Estate and Housing Market
Grosse Ile’s real estate landscape offers something extraordinary—a diverse housing market that satisfies nearly every preference and price point. Waterfront properties showcase an impressive architectural range, from historic cottages that reflect the island’s early days to sprawling custom-built mansions exceeding 10,000 square feet that line the scenic riverfront roads. The variety ensures that island living remains accessible to a broad spectrum of homebuyers.
Away from the shoreline, residential neighborhoods feature a mix of housing styles, including comfortable ranches, stately colonials, and unique tri-level homes built primarily during the 1950s and 1960s, alongside newer construction with modern amenities.
The median home sale price of $343,000 reflects the island’s premium location while remaining relatively attainable compared to other waterfront communities. For those seeking alternatives to single-family homes, condominiums and apartments provide additional living options, contributing to the township’s diverse residential character.
Recreation and Community Life
Recreation forms the cornerstone of Grosse Ile living, with the township boasting 17 parks totaling over 1,000 acres of recreational space. The island’s commitment to preservation is evident in its Open Space program, which maintains approximately 600 acres of dedicated open land owned by the township. This deliberate approach to conservation ensures that residents will continue to enjoy the island’s natural beauty for generations to come.
At the center of the community’s recreational offerings stands the Water’s Edge Recreation complex, a comprehensive facility featuring a public marina, swimming pools, a golf course with a driving range, and athletic fields.
Throughout the year, residents gather for signature celebrations organized by the township’s Recreation Department, including the Grosse Ile Islandfest and the Fall Festival at Centennial Farms. These events strengthen community bonds while providing seasonal entertainment for families. The island’s waterfront setting also naturally encourages boating and water activities, with several private boat clubs complementing the public marina facilities.
