Erik Wright
Managing Broker & Founder
The City of Northville and Northville Township share a name, a library and a school district, but they are separate communities with different governments, tax rates, services and housing. The city is small and walkable, centered on the historic downtown. The township is much larger, mostly suburban, and offers newer homes and bigger lots. Both carry a “Northville” mailing address, so buyers often don’t realize which one a home is in until they look closer.
Side-by-side comparison
City of Northville
- Government: City (mayor and council)
- County: Wayne and Oakland (the city straddles the line)
- Area: About 2 square miles
- Population (2020 Census): About 6,100
- Police and fire: City departments
- Walk to downtown: Yes, from most neighborhoods
- Typical homes: Historic homes, bungalows, colonials, condos, infill new builds
- HOAs: Less common
- School district: Northville Public Schools
- Median sale price (12 months): [MLS]
- Total millage rate (homestead): [Confirm with city assessor]
Northville Township
- Government: Charter township (township board)
- County: Wayne
- Area: About 16.6 square miles
- Population (2020 Census): About 31,800
- Police and fire: Township departments
- Walk to downtown: Mostly a short drive
- Typical homes: 1980s–2000s subdivisions, luxury homes, condos, newer construction
- HOAs: Common in subdivisions
- School district: Northville Public Schools (verify by address)
- Median sale price (12 months): [MLS]
- Total millage rate (homestead): [Confirm with township assessor]
How the two came to be
Northville Township was established in 1898, when it split from the larger Plymouth township that once included today’s Canton, Plymouth and Northville townships. It became a charter township in 1985. The village of Northville, which grew up within the original township, later incorporated as the City of Northville and became fully independent. Background from Wayne County.
Choose the City of Northville if you want
- To walk to restaurants, shops and events downtown
- A historic home with character
- A smaller, close-knit neighborhood feel
- No homeowners association in most cases
Choose Northville Township if you want
- A newer home with an open floor plan and attached garage
- A larger lot or a subdivision with amenities like paths and ponds
- More choices across price ranges, from condos to luxury homes
- Easy access to I-275, M-14 and Five Mile and Haggerty Road shopping
Things buyers often miss
- Taxes differ. City and township millage rates are different, and the city’s Oakland County side carries different county millage than its Wayne County side. Ask for the exact tax rate for each address, and remember Michigan uncaps taxable value when a home sells. Confirm current figures with the City of Northville or the township assessor.
- ZIP codes don’t settle it. Both use Northville ZIP codes (48167 and 48168), and some township addresses use a Plymouth ZIP. Check the parcel’s municipality, not the mailing address.
- HOA rules. Many township subdivisions have associations with dues and architectural rules. Read them before you write an offer.
- Historic considerations. Some city homes are in a historic district, which can affect exterior changes.
Which is right for you?
If walkability and character top your list, the city is hard to beat. If you want more home and more yard for the money, the township usually wins. Read our full Northville living guide, or if you’re comparing west, see Living in Plymouth.
Tour both in one day
Social House sells homes throughout the City of Northville and Northville Township. We’ll show you both and give you real numbers on price and taxes. Search Northville homes or book a tour with Erik.
Northville Township vs. city FAQ
Is Northville Township the same as the City of Northville?
No. They are separate municipalities with their own governments, services and tax rates, though they share the Northville name, library and school district.
Which has lower property taxes, Northville Township or the City of Northville?
It depends on current millage rates and the home’s value. Ask the assessor or your agent for the exact rate on each address.
Do Northville Township and the City of Northville have the same schools?
Both are served by Northville Public Schools. Verify the specific school assignment for each address.
Is Northville Township in Wayne or Oakland County?
Northville Township is in Wayne County. The City of Northville sits in both Wayne and Oakland counties.
