Independence Township, MI Real Estate Guide: Your Complete Guide to the Clarkston Area

If you are searching for a community where lake living, top-rated schools, small-town charm, and easy freeway access come together, Independence Township deserves your full attention. Spanning more than 36 square miles of rolling hills, mature hardwoods, and over 30 named lakes, this Oakland County gem — anchored by the beloved Village of Clarkston at its center — is one of the most desirable residential communities in southeast Michigan.

I am Ben Lang, Broker and Owner of RE/MAX The Collective Agency, headquartered in Auburn Hills, Michigan. With over two decades of experience and more than 1,000 families helped, I built this guide to give you the in-depth, data-driven resource that the national listing portals cannot offer. Whether you are relocating from out of state, moving up from a neighboring community, or thinking about selling, this guide covers market data, neighborhood breakdowns, school district analysis, lifestyle insights, and buying and selling strategy.

Independence Township at a Glance — Quick Facts

• Population: 36,686 (2020 Census)
• County: Oakland County, Michigan
• Zip Codes: 48346, 48348
• Township Size: 36.3 square miles (35.0 sq mi land / 1.3 sq mi water)
• Median Home Price: Approximately $420,000 – $430,000 (2025 data)
• Average Sale Price: Approximately $478,000
• Median Price Per Square Foot: Approximately $187 – $195
• Average Days on Market: 21-28 days (varies seasonally)
• Property Tax Rate: Approximately 35-42 mills total (varies by location within the township). Use the Independence Township tax estimator at indtwp.com for precise calculations.
• Median Household Income: $114,675 (2023 ACS estimate)
• Primary School District: Clarkston Community Schools (rated A-minus by Niche; 14 schools, approximately 6,757 students)
• Other School Districts: Small portions served by Lake Orion Community Schools (A-rated) and Waterford School District (C-plus)
• Notable Features: 30+ lakes, Pine Knob Music Theatre, Pine Knob Ski Resort, Independence Oaks County Park (1,286 acres), Village of Clarkston (National Historical Site downtown)
• Commute to Downtown Detroit: Approximately 45 minutes via I-75 (about 45 miles)
• Commute to Pontiac/Auburn Hills: Approximately 15-20 minutes via I-75
• I-75 Access: Exit 89 (Sashabaw Road) and Exit 91 (M-15/Clarkston Road)

Independence Township Housing Market Overview — 2026

Current Market Conditions

As of early 2026, the Independence Township market is balanced to slightly seller-favored. The median listing price sits at approximately $420,000 to $430,000, with the average sale price at around $478,000. Homes sell in an average of 21 to 28 days during normal seasons, though winter months can push that to 40 or even 70-plus days.

Inventory has increased roughly 25 percent year-over-year, giving buyers more options without creating oversupply. At any given time, approximately 40 to 50 active listings are available, ranging from around $150,000 for condos to $2.5 million-plus for luxury lakefront estates. The sale-to-list price ratio remains strong, with well-priced homes still generating multiple offers. Statewide, Michigan prices have climbed roughly 3.5 percent year-over-year, and Independence Township has tracked at or above that pace.

Want a personalized market analysis for a specific neighborhood or price range? Reach out to Ben Lang at RE/MAX The Collective Agency and I will put together the current numbers for you.

Price Ranges and What to Expect

Here is a realistic breakdown of what your budget gets you:

• $150,000 – $250,000: Condos and townhomes (such as Clarkston Bluffs), smaller ranch homes, and fixer-uppers. Your entry point into the Clarkston schools district.
• $250,000 – $400,000: Updated ranches, colonials, three-bed/two-bath homes in established subdivisions, and some newer construction. The most active segment for first-time buyers.
• $400,000 – $600,000: Larger four-bedroom colonials, homes on acreage, some lakefront properties, and newer construction in subdivisions like Deerwood. The heart of the market.
• $600,000 – $1,000,000: Premium lakefront homes on all-sports lakes, custom builds, and homes in Oakhurst and Bridge Valley.
• $1,000,000+: Luxury estates in Oakhurst, waterfront estates on Deer Lake, and large acreage custom builds.

Prices shift seasonally. Contact me for the most current data on any price range or area.

Market Forecast — What to Expect in 2026

Michigan’s housing forecast calls for 2 to 4 percent price appreciation statewide in 2026. Independence Township should track slightly above those averages, driven by the school district, lake amenities, and limited undeveloped land for new construction.

Inventory is expected to grow 5 to 10 percent as baby boomer downsizing brings more homes to market. Interest rates remain the key wildcard — rate decreases would fuel additional buyer demand. The market favors prepared buyers who act decisively and sellers who price strategically from day one.

Best Neighborhoods and Areas in Independence Township

Independence Township has more than 75 subdivisions, each with its own character and price range. No online portal can tell you what it actually feels like to live in these areas. Here are the neighborhoods I recommend most often.

Deer Lake Area and Deer Lake Farms

Deer Lake is the crown jewel of Independence Township waterfront living — a 137-acre all-sports lake reaching 63 feet deep with some of the finest lakefront real estate in Oakland County. Properties here are estate-level, sitting on lots from three to more than twelve acres. Adjacent Deer Lake Farms features spacious lots, private beach access, tree-lined streets, and a family-oriented atmosphere.

• Home Types: Custom-built estates, colonial and contemporary styles, many with private lakefront or lake-access
• Price Range: $600,000 – $2,000,000+
• Best For: Affluent families, boating and water sports enthusiasts, buyers seeking estate-level privacy combined with lake living
• Worth Noting: Deer Lake Beach is a township park offering public beach access, so even non-lakefront residents can enjoy the lake

Oakhurst Golf and Country Club

Oakhurst is Independence Township’s premier gated community, built around an Arthur Hills-designed 18-hole championship course at 7000 Oakhurst Lane. Multiple luxury subdivisions sit inside the gates, connected by sidewalk-lined streets that allow golf cart traffic. Amenities include tennis courts, swimming pools, a fitness center, fine dining at the clubhouse, and three membership tiers (social, tennis, and golf).

• Home Types: Luxury single-family homes, many with golf course views, custom-built with premium finishes
• Price Range: $400,000 – $2,600,000+ (recent sales have ranged from approximately $460,000 to $1,275,000)
• Best For: Golf enthusiasts, executives, retirees seeking an active luxury lifestyle, families wanting a resort-style community
• Worth Noting: Oakhurst is one of the most recognized luxury addresses in northern Oakland County

Pine Knob Area

Several neighborhoods cluster around the iconic Pine Knob complex: Pine Knob Country Estates (larger lots, semi-rural feel), Pine Knob Manor (traditional subdivision living), Pine Knob Enclaves (luxury condominiums), Fairways at Pine Knob, and Pine Vista Community. Proximity to Pine Knob Ski Resort and Pine Knob Music Theatre makes this area uniquely appealing for year-round recreation.

• Home Types: Mix of single-family colonials, ranches, and luxury condos
• Price Range: $250,000 – $700,000 depending on subdivision and property type
• Best For: Outdoor enthusiasts (skiing, hiking, concerts), families, empty-nesters (condo options)
• Worth Noting: Year-round recreation at your doorstep — skiing and snowboarding in winter, world-class concerts

Frequently Asked Questions

What is it like living in Independence Township?

Living in Independence offers a blend of serene lake life, top-rated schools, and vibrant community events centered around the Village of Clarkston. Residents enjoy extensive outdoor recreation and easy access to major freeways for commuting.

Are there any homebuyer programs available in Independence Township?

Yes, various homebuyer programs may be available to assist with down payments or closing costs for eligible buyers in Independence Township. These programs can make homeownership more accessible, especially for first-time buyers.