Trenton

About Trenton

Trenton is a small city located 25 miles south of Detroit in Michigan's Wayne County. Bordering the Detroit River, it's known for its waterfront activities and active boating community. It's a popular community for those looking for a friendly suburban environment, a large park system and highly-rated schools.

The History of Trenton

After the War of 1812, Abram Caleb Truax moved to the land where Trenton now sits, acquiring the property from the U.S. government. He established a church, a sawmill and a store, and eventually became a township supervisor when Monguagon Township was created in 1827. In 1834, Truax laid out a village he called Truaxton, a name that was changed to Trenton in 1847.

One of the major events contributing to the growth of Trenton was the construction of a steamboat dock in 1837, built by industrialist Giles Bryan Slocum. This made Trenton a major center of boat traffic, drawing people to the area and stimulating development. By 1855, the village had grown large enough to earn official incorporation.

Through the early 1900s, Trenton continued to flourish because of its geographical location. It served as a perfect resting point on the difficult journey between Detroit and Monroe, and many people chose Trenton as their midpoint for an overnight stay. In 1957, Trenton was finally incorporated as a city.

Living in Trenton

One of the most beloved aspects of life in Trenton is the well-developed parks system, spanning more than 200 acres in this small city. Elizabeth Park is among the most popular, with its scenic location along the Detroit River and its numerous recreational opportunities. You can enjoy a waterfront picnic or go fishing in the river.

The city established one large recreational facility and renovated another in the early 2000s, creating two spaces where locals can take advantage of many activities. Kennedy Recreation Center and the Kennedy Outdoor Aquatic Center feature ice rinks, a sporting goods shop, diving boards, a splash pad and water slides. Senior citizens can partake in community activities at the Westfield Activities Center, which also hosts several local events.

Trenton Schools

The majority of public schools in Trenton are part of the Trenton Public Schools district. There are also a few faith-based private schools in the area.

Resources for Moving to Trenton

Here is some handy information for organizing your move to Trenton:

• Utilities: The city of Trenton manages water and sewer services, while DTE Energy provides electricity.
• Garbage and Recycling: The city provides each single-family home with a trash disposal bin to be used for weekly curbside collection. Yard waste is collected on a seasonal basis (usually April through December), leaf collection is offered in the fall months.
• Transportation: Trenton is just one of the many communities in the Detroit area that are part of the SMART public transit system.

Trenton Housing

Like many Michigan cities, Trenton is a very affordable place to purchase a home. On average, home prices in Trenton are lower than both the national average, and the Detroit metropolitan average. Rental options are somewhat limited in Trenton, mainly due to its small size. However, you can still find a range of options in a variety of sizes, styles and price points.