Michigan is a popular state for residents and visitors alike because of its high-paying jobs, low living costs, and quality of life. However, the infamous water crises and auto industry collapse have raised the price of housing in many cities.
Luckily, there are still plenty of affordable options in Michigan to live in. In fact, there are even some cities in the state that have lower rent prices than the national average.
1. Traverse City
Traverse City is home to miles of sugar sand beaches, exhilarating outdoor activities, and award-winning wineries. It’s no wonder the town is one of Michigan’s favorite travel destinations!
It’s also a great place to work remotely. It has a wide range of co-working spaces, and plenty of networking opportunities for newcomers and remote workers.
With a diverse population, Traverse City is a vibrant and welcoming community. Its thriving economy, beautiful scenery and friendly locals make it an ideal place to live.
There are a variety of options for lodging, from hotels and motels to bed & breakfasts and vacation rentals. You’ll also find many excellent restaurants offering fresh, local cuisine.
2. Okemos
Okemos is a great place to live if you’re looking for a high quality of life at a low cost. The city is known for being a densely populated suburban community, offering residents access to great restaurants, coffee shops and parks.
It also has a moderate political outlook and public schools that are highly rated. It has a large amount of young professionals and families living in the area.
If you’re looking to move to a new area, it’s important to look at crime rates and other factors that can impact your safety. While it’s true that some areas are more dangerous than others, Okemos is overall a safe place to live.
3. Lansing
Lansing is a great place to live if you’re looking for a low-cost city with good schools, a fun nightlife, and plenty of revitalization efforts. It’s also a great choice for families and entrepreneurs.
The cost of living in Lansing is significantly lower than most cities in Michigan, as well as the national average. Compared to the national average, residents of Lansing pay 18% less on housing, utilities, transportation, groceries, health care and miscellaneous goods and services.
A flat income tax rate and state-level taxes ranging from Social Security contributions to Medicare payroll taxes help keep taxes in line with the national average. However, taxes vary widely from city to city and town to town.
4. Grosse Pointe
Grosse Pointe is a quaint little town with a rich history and a lot of character. Its small-town charm is matched by its proximity to the metro Detroit area and the greater Great Lakes region.
It’s also home to several upscale shopping centers and a world-class golf course. The city boasts one of the best public school systems in Michigan, with a top-notch staff and facilities.
There are many things to see and do in Grosse Pointe, including the new Michigan Science Center and a story-filled day at the local library. The city is also home to a number of excellent museums, a symphony concert hall and major-league sports arenas.
5. Howell
If you’re looking for a small town with a great quality of life, Howell is one of the best places to live in Michigan. Its close proximity to the big cities of Lansing, Ann Arbor and Detroit make it an attractive option for business professionals, growing families and retirees alike.
The average cost of living in Howell is lower than the national average. This is mainly due to the high level of affordable housing in the area.
Another contributing factor to Howell’s lower cost of living is its low foreign-born population. The percentage of people born outside of the United States is 4.41%, which is lower than the national average of 13.5%.
