Michigan’s third-oldest community, Monroe is located about 17 miles north of Toledo, Ohio and about 35-miles south of Metro Detroit. The current population is nearly 23,000. Originally named Frenchtown by its original settlers, Monroe adopted the name of fifth President James Monroe. With a rich historic legacy, Monroe County was the adopted home of General George Armstrong Custer and the infamous site of the Battle of the River Raisin during the War of 1812, giving rise to the war’s rallying cry “Remember the River Raisin.” Conveniently located between Detroit, Ann Arbor and Toledo, Monroe offers a small town appeal with all the comforts of large city living close by. Monroe County is home to both urban and industrial development along its eastern shoreline, with large farm agriculture in its western district. Monroe has a nuclear power plant and two coal-fired power plants.

Numerous parks and lakes characterize Monroe’s natural environment, featuring North America’s only International Wildlife Refuge. The 260-acre Eagle Island Marsh unit of the Detroit River International Wildlife Refuge supports significant beds of the threatened American lotus flower and habitat for eagles and a wide variety of mammals. Sterling State Park offers 1,000 acres of shoreline on Lake Erie, attracting visitors from all around Michigan and beyond, featuring popular swimming beaches, nature trails, fishing ponds and playground equipment. Other Monroe County Parks include Nike Park, Vienna Park and Waterloo Park.

Diverse economy, beautifully restored Victorian homes and a vibrant history make Monroe a wonderful city to call home. As of the fourth quarter 2009, the average residential sale price is $90,375 and the average condominium sale price is $91,101.