Gross Ile is home to about 11,000 people who feel very fortunate to live on these beautiful and unique islands situated on the Detroit River south of Detroit. One story ranch styles and traditional 2 story homes make up the many of the homes styles. However, along the river you will find homes with unique architectural designs.

Grosse Ile is the main island, but other smaller islands are also inhabited: Elba, Upper Hickory (Meso), Hickory, and Swan. In all, more than a dozen islands comprise Grosse Ile Township, providing a unique environment for those who live there.

Two bridges connect the "main island" to the mainland of Michigan. The bridge on the north end of the island is called the Grosse Ile Toll Bridge. The bridge on the south end of the island is officially named the Wayne County Bridge, but is commonly called the "Free Bridge" by locals.

On the island, there are two elementary schools: Parke Lane Elementary, and Meridian Elementary, Grosse Ile Middle School and Grosse Ile High School. Grosse Ile is considered to be one of the best locations along the Detroit River to observe commercial shipping and pleasure boat traffic. Lake freighters and ocean going ships traveling to destinations around the Great Lakes regularly pass near the east side of the island. Residents have the best of both worlds; to enjoy a variety of entertainment just over the bridge in downtown Detroit and return home to a charming location on the mainland.