(BPT) - Thinking about moving? Consider Michigan, which offers great jobs, an even better cost of living, economic opportunity and welcoming communities. Its stunning natural landscapes and vibrant urban environments also inspire the quintessential work-life balance. Singles and young professionals looking to boost their careers, families looking to put down roots or individuals looking to find community can find it in Michigan - all with proximity to 3,000 miles of freshwater coastline.
Learn more about these top five reasons to live, work and play in Michigan.
1. Access to great jobs
Whether you've just embarked on your career or are a seasoned professional ready to advance in your field, Michigan offers plenty of job opportunities. The state's cutting-edge, high-tech industries like EV/mobility, clean energy, life sciences, medical devices and engineering, design and development, are all looking to hire.
Michigan is also home to 18 Fortune 500 company headquarters, and more companies are relocating to the state. Join the state's momentum to help fuel innovation and pave the way for a brighter tomorrow.
2. Cost of living
Affording basic living essentials has become harder in recent years. Even with a great job, it can be hard to pay all your bills and have money left over for relaxation and entertainment. In Michigan, your paycheck can go further. Unlike other tech hubs, Michigan remains one of the most affordable places to live. With a cost of living approximately 10% below the national average, you can spend more of your hard-earned cash on hobbies and experiences.
Michigan is especially attractive for those looking to buy a home, with housing costs 10% lower than the national average. Consider a cozy lakefront cottage, a downtown loft or a family-friendly suburb. Or choose two with the great cost of living.
3. Abundant natural resources
Outdoor lovers rejoice! You can enjoy outdoor adventures every season in Michigan. Four Great Lakes surround the state's two peninsulas, offering endless opportunities for water recreation like fishing, swimming, canoeing, kayaking, paddle boarding, boating and more. No matter where you are in Michigan, you're never farther than 6 miles from a lake, river or stream.
When you need a break from beach life, Michigan offers pristine skiing, snowmobiling, climbing, biking, hunting, camping and hiking terrains. Quench your thirst for wine from the vineyards in Traverse City and take in awe-inspiring views - like the Northern Lights - in Michigan's Upper Peninsula.
No matter what kind of outdoor recreation you prefer, Michigan's abundant natural resources have a little something for everyone year-round.
4. Vibrant nightlife
Nightlife entertainment abounds in Michigan! At night, the party is just getting started in Ann Arbor, Grand Rapids, Lansing and Detroit.
Music lovers, from Motown fans to EDM devotees, can find a concert or festival across the state. Catch the dancing bug? Many Michigan downtowns offer live music and dance clubs playing electronica, 90s hip-hop beats and soul-stirring jazz melodies.
Foodies will have a veritable feast of choices. Gourmands can whet their appetites with Michigan classics like Detroit-style pizza, coney dogs, Mackinac Island fudge, pasties, breakfast cereal, tart cherries and crisp apples. Plus, many cities offer craft breweries and distilleries where you can talk with friends late into the night while enjoying delightful, innovative drinks. Grand Rapids, Michigan (AKA 'Beer City USA'), is known as the craft beverage capital of the U.S.
5. Welcoming communities
Inclusivity isn't just a buzzword in Michigan. The state's leaders have enacted laws to protect the state's most vulnerable communities. In Michigan, you can belong, no matter who you are or where you come from.
The state is home to people from all walks of life, especially in cities like Grand Rapids and Detroit. Michigan welcomes people from all backgrounds, races, ethnicities, genders and sexual orientations. The state also celebrates its local Indigenous tribes and embraces growing immigrant communities.
Want to learn more about Michigan? Visit TheMichiganLife.org. There, you can find job opportunities and see how affordable it is to live in this beautiful state of opportunity.
