Michigan, the Great Lakes State, is one of the most beautiful places to live in the United States. It offers its residents an abundance of natural beauty, cultural diversity, and thriving urban centers. Whether you prefer city living or small-town charm, Michigan has something to offer for everyone. In this article, we will explore the best places to live in Michigan and what makes them so desirable.
Best Places to Live in Michigan
- Ann Arbor
- Grand Rapids
- Traverse City
- Birmingham
- Royal Oak
- Troy
- Farmington Hills
- Holland
- Rochester
- Northville
- Novi
- Plymouth
- Kalamazoo
- Berkley
- Saugatuck
- Marquette
- Lansing
- Grosse Pointe Area
1. Ann Arbor
Ann Arbor is a charming college town that is home to the University of Michigan. It has a population of over 121,000 people and is known for its excellent schools, beautiful parks, great restaurants, and cultural attractions. The cost of living in Ann Arbor is slightly higher than other cities on this list, with an average rent of around $1,400 per month for a one-bedroom apartment and a median cost of $305,000 for a house. However, the city’s amenities, including the University of Michigan Museum of Art and the Ann Arbor Farmers Market, make it a great place to call home.
Things To Do
- Visit the University of Michigan campus and museums
- Explore the Ann Arbor Hands-On Museum
- Attend a game or concert at Michigan Stadium
- Stroll through Nichols Arboretum
- Shop and dine in downtown Ann Arbor
2. Grand Rapids
Grand Rapids is located in western Michigan and is the second-largest city in Michigan, with a population of over 200,000 residents. It is known for its vibrant arts scene, great breweries, and family-friendly environment. The median cost of a house in Grand Rapids is $207,000, and the rental cost of a one-bedroom apartment is $1,100. The city also boasts an extensive park system, with over 100 parks and green spaces, as well as numerous hiking and biking trails. The city has a thriving arts and cultural scene, and its downtown is a hotspot for entertainment.
Things To Do
- Discover art at the Grand Rapids Art Museum
- Experience the John Ball Zoo
- Tour the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Museum
- Walk the Frederik Meijer Gardens and Sculpture Park
- Enjoy the nightlife in downtown Grand Rapids
3. Traverse City
Traverse City is a beautiful city located on the shores of Lake Michigan’s Grand Traverse Bay. It is known for its beautiful beaches, wineries, and outdoor activities. The city has a population of approximately 15,000 people, making it a great option for those seeking a small-town feel. The cost of living in Traverse City is relatively high, with an average rent of around $1,300 per month for a one-bedroom apartment and the median cost of a house is $313,000. However, the city’s stunning natural surroundings make it worth the price. The city offers a unique blend of small-town charm and big-city amenities, with a thriving food and wine scene.
Things To Do
- Sample wines on the Old Mission Peninsula Wine Trail
- Relax on the beaches of Grand Traverse Bay
- Hike or bike the Traverse Area Recreation and Transportation (TART) Trail
- Explore Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore
- Attend the National Cherry Festival in July
4. Birmingham
Birmingham is a small city located in southeastern Michigan, with a population of just over 21,000 residents. The median cost of a house in Birmingham is $657,000, and the rental cost of a one-bedroom apartment is $1,300. The city boasts excellent schools, beautiful parks, and a bustling downtown with upscale shops and restaurants.
Things To Do
- Shop and dine on the luxurious Woodward Avenue
- Visit the Birmingham Farmers Market
- Attend the annual Birmingham Village Fair
- Stroll through Shain Park
- Enjoy a show at the historic Birmingham 8 movie theater
5. Royal Oak
Royal Oak is a vibrant city located in the Detroit metropolitan area. It has a population of approximately 59,000 people and is known for its great nightlife, excellent restaurants, and cultural attractions. The cost of living in Royal Oak is relatively high, with an average rent of around $1,200 per month for a one-bedroom apartment and the median cost of a house in Royal Oak is $273,000. However, the city’s amenities, including the Royal Oak Music Theatre and the Detroit Zoo, make it a popular choice for young professionals.
Things To Do
- Explore the Detroit Zoo
- Attend the Royal Oak Farmers Market
- Walk the nature trails at Tenhave Woods
- Shop and dine in downtown Royal Oak
- Catch a concert at the Royal Oak Music Theatre
6. Troy
Troy is a city in Oakland County, Michigan. It is the largest city in the county, with a population of around 84,000 people. The city has a diverse population, with a mix of young professionals and families. The city’s population has been steadily increasing over the years, making it one of the fastest-growing cities in Michigan.
The rental costs in Troy vary depending on the type of housing and location. The average cost of a one-bedroom apartment in Troy is around $1,200 per month, while a two-bedroom apartment costs around $1,500 per month. However, rental costs can be higher or lower depending on the location and amenities.
The median cost of a home in Troy is around $360,000. The city has a mix of housing options, from single-family homes to apartments and condos.
Things To Do
- Shop at the Somerset Collection
- Enjoy the outdoor space at Boulan Park
- Attend a concert or event at the Troy Community Center
- Hike the trails at the Lloyd A. Stage Nature Center
- Visit the Troy Historic Village
7. Farmington Hills
Farmington Hills is a city in Oakland County, Michigan. It is a suburb of Detroit, with a population of over 80,000 people, according to the latest census data. The city has a diverse population, with a mix of young professionals and families.
The median cost of a home in Farmington Hills is around $300,000, and the average cost of a one-bedroom apartment in Farmington Hills is around $1,000 per month, while a two-bedroom apartment costs around $1,400 per month. The city has a mix of housing options, from single-family homes to apartments and condos.
Things To Do
- Play a round of golf at the Farmington Hills Golf Club
- Visit the Holocaust Memorial Center
- Attend the Stars in the Park summer concert series
- Hike or bike the Farmington Hills Trail System
- Explore the Farmington Farmers and Artisans Market
8. Holland
Holland is a city in Ottawa County, Michigan. It is located on the eastern shore of Lake Michigan. It is known for its Dutch heritage, beautiful beaches, and welcoming community. Holland also boasts an excellent school system and numerous parks and recreational activities.
The average cost of a one-bedroom apartment in Holland is around $900 per month, while a two-bedroom apartment costs around $1,200 per month. However, rental costs can be higher or lower depending on the location and amenities.
The median cost of a home in Holland is around $210,000, according to Zillow. The city has a mix of housing options, from single-family homes to apartments and condos. The city has a strong Dutch heritage and is known for its beautiful tulip festival, The city has a small-town feel, but with all the amenities of a larger city.
Things To Do
- Visit the beautiful tulip gardens at Windmill Island Gardens
- Relax on the beaches of Lake Michigan
- Explore the Dutch Village theme park
- Attend the annual Tulip Time Festival in May
- Walk the trails at the DeGraaf Nature Center
9. Rochester
Rochester is a city in Oakland County, Michigan. It is a suburb of Detroit, with a population of approximately 13,000 people. The city has a historic downtown area and many parks and trails to explore. The average cost of a one-bedroom apartment in Rochester is around $1,100 per month, while a two-bedroom apartment costs around $1,500 per month.
The median cost of a home in Rochester is around $400,000, according to Zillow. The city has a mix of housing options, from historic homes to newer developments.
Things To Do
- Explore the Rochester Municipal Park and Paint Creek Trail
- Visit the Rochester Hills Museum at Van Hoosen Farm
- Attend the weekly Farmers Market at the Rochester Municipal Park
- Enjoy the nightlife in downtown Rochester
- Go ice skating at the Rochester Hills Ice Arena
10. Northville
Northville is a city in Wayne County, Michigan. It is a suburb of Detroit, with a population of over 6,000 people. The city has a historic downtown area and many parks and trails to explore.
The average cost of a one-bedroom apartment in Northville is around $1,200 per month, while a two-bedroom apartment costs around $1,500 per month and the median cost of a home in Northville is around $500,000. The cost of living in Northville is higher than the national average, but it is also one of the most affluent cities to live in Michigan.
Things To Do
- Stroll through the historic downtown area and check out the unique shops and restaurants.
- Take a walk or bike ride on the nearby nature trails.
- Attend one of the many community events, such as the Victorian Festival or the Farmers’ Market.
11. Novi
Novi is a city in Oakland County, Michigan. It is a suburb of Detroit, with a population of over 60,000 people. The city has a mix of residential and commercial areas, with many shopping centers and restaurants. The city has a diverse population with a mix of cultures and backgrounds, and the city is known for its excellent school system and many community events.
The median cost of a home in Novi is around $380,000, and the average cost of a one-bedroom apartment in Novi is around $1,200 per month, while a two-bedroom apartment costs around $1,500 per month. The city has a mix of housing options, from single-family homes to apartments and condos.
Things To Do
- Visit the Twelve Oaks Mall for shopping and dining.
- Explore the Michigan State University Tollgate Farm and Education Center.
- Enjoy a round of golf at one of the many local golf courses.
12. Plymouth
Plymouth is a beautiful city located in Wayne County, Michigan. It has a population of around 9,120 people, making it a small and peaceful city. Plymouth is an excellent place to live if you are looking for a small, quiet, and affordable city. The rental cost for a one-bedroom apartment in Plymouth is around $1,000, which is affordable compared to other cities. The median cost of a home in Plymouth is $262,000.
Things To Do
- Check out the vibrant arts scene at the Plymouth Community Arts Council.
- Attend the annual Plymouth Ice Festival.
- Explore the historic Old Village neighborhood.
13. Kalamazoo
Kalamazoo is a lively city located in Kalamazoo County, Michigan. It has a population of over 75,000 people, making it a medium-sized city. The rental cost for a one-bedroom apartment in Kalamazoo is around $1,150, which is slightly higher than the national average. The median cost of a home in Kalamazoo is $152,000. Kalamazoo is an excellent place to live if you are looking for a vibrant and diverse community.
Things To Do
- Visit the Kalamazoo Institute of Arts.
- Sample local craft beer at one of the many breweries in the area.
- Attend a show at the Kalamazoo State Theatre or the Miller Auditorium.
14. Berkley
Berkley is a charming city located in Oakland County, Michigan. It is an excellent place to live if you are looking for a small and friendly community. It has a population of approximately 15,000 people, making it a small and cozy city. The rental cost for a one-bedroom apartment is around $1,100, which is affordable compared to other cities and the median cost of a home is $220,000.
Things To Do
- Take a stroll through the beautiful parks and nature trails in the area.
- Attend one of the many community events, such as the Art Bash or the CruiseFest.
- Enjoy a meal at one of the many locally-owned restaurants.
15. Saugatuck
Saugatuck is a picturesque city located in Allegan County, Michigan. It has a population of over 1,000 people, making it a very small and peaceful city. The median cost of a home in Saugatuck is $365,000, and the rental cost for a one-bedroom apartment in Saugatuck is around $1,200, which is slightly higher than the national average.
Things To Do
- Spend the day at the beach on Lake Michigan.
- Explore the art galleries and boutique shops in the downtown area.
- Take a scenic boat ride along the Kalamazoo River.
16. Marquette
Marquette is a beautiful city located in Marquette County, Michigan. It has a population of around 21,000 people, making it a medium-sized city. Marquette is an excellent place to live if you are looking for a beautiful and peaceful city with access to excellent educational opportunities. The rental cost for a one-bedroom apartment in Marquette is around $700, which is very affordable compared to other cities. The median cost of a home in Marquette is $174,000.
Things To Do
- Visit the Northern Michigan University campus and its many cultural and educational resources.
- Take a hike on the nearby trails, such as Sugarloaf Mountain or Presque Isle Park.
- Enjoy skiing and other winter sports at the nearby Marquette Mountain.
17. Lansing
Lansing is the capital city of Michigan, located in Ingham County. It has a population of approximately 118,000 people, making it a medium-sized city. The rental cost for a one-bedroom apartment in Lansing is around $800, which is affordable compared to other cities. The median cost of a home in Lansing is $99,000, making it one of the most affordable cities on this list.
Things To Do
- Visit the Michigan State Capitol building.
- Explore the many museums in the area, such as the Michigan Historical Museum or the Impression 5 Science Center.
- Attend a Michigan State University sporting event.
18. Grosse Pointe Area
The Grosse Pointe Area is a group of five suburban cities located in Wayne County, Michigan. The cities include Grosse Pointe City, Grosse Pointe Park, Grosse Pointe Farms, Grosse Pointe Woods, and Grosse Pointe Shores. Together, they have a combined population of around 27,000 people, making it a small and tight-knit community. The rental cost for a one-bedroom apartment in the Grosse Pointe Area is around $1,300, which is higher than the national average. The median cost of a home in the Grosse Pointe Area is $384,000. The Grosse Pointe Area is an excellent place to live if you are looking for a small, luxurious, and exclusive community.
Things To Do
- Enjoy a day at the Grosse Pointe War Memorial, which features a variety of cultural events and educational resources.
- Take a stroll along the lakefront at Lake St. Clair.
- Check out the many locally-owned shops and restaurants in the area.
Final Thoughts:
Michigan is a wonderful state to live in, offering an abundance of natural beauty, cultural diversity, and thriving urban centers. From the stunning beaches along the Great Lakes to the vibrant city life in Detroit, Michigan has something to offer for everyone. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful small town or a bustling urban center, the best places to live in Michigan are sure to provide you with unparalleled quality of life. So, whether you’re a lifelong Michigander or considering a move to the Great Lakes State, be sure to check out our list of the best places to live in Michigan for an unforgettable living experience.
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