The great lakes state: 7 reasons to move to michigan today
Unrivaled Beauty
Image via Flickr by erwinem
Michigan's state motto, Si Quaeris Peninsulam Amoenam Circumspice, translates to "If you see a pleasant peninsula, look around you." Michigan, like Florida, is a peninsula. With more than 11,000 lakes to explore, its beauty and outdoor adventures tops the list of reasons to relocate. Hiking, camping, and skiing -- yes, skiing -- in the winter months are all state attractions. With so many acres of forests to explore, you can't go wrong as a nature lover in Michigan.
Cheaper Housing and Cost of Living
According to Trulia.com, median home prices in Michigan are about $125,000 lower than neighboring Wisconsin ($164,900) and Illinois ($171,000). In addition, the cost of living is by far more affordable than other states in the region which includes food, utilities, healthcare and transportation.
Stronger Community and Culture
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The state is full of pride in community. There are German and Polish influences here as well as Native American reservations. African-American, Latino, and Middle-Eastern residents all aid in the state's camaraderie and intense pride. Family is important here, too. From Michigan natives to newcomers, close-knit neighborhoods, community events, and taking care of elder family members are must-dos in many cities and towns. With affordable health care, many are reaping the benefits ofsenior memory care in Kalamazoo, MI and other area healthcare facilities to aid families at all age levels to living long, healthy, and happy lives.
Attractive for Entrepreneurship
With economic development organizations like MEDC, SPARK, Startup Zoo, Automation Alley, and TECH Town, the opportunities for new businesses and industry innovation is attracting many seeking entrepreneurial dreams as well as those looking to become part of future technology, manufacturing, and other business environments.
According to Quicken Loans Zing! Report in 2014, Michigan will benefit from "$79.1 million in federal capital funding." The Zing! Report also quoted President Obama: "Michigan is all about making stuff. If there's anybody that can teach us about manufacturing, it's the great state of Michigan." Long known as the auto manufacturing state, the resurgence in new manufacturing technologies is attracting all types of industries looking to set up shop and reap the benefits of state and federal aid.
Top-Notch Education
U.S. News and World Report reported that as of 2013, the Michigan's public school system boasts numerous schools with gold, silver, and bronze medals. The International Academy near Lansing, Michigan is one of the most sought after schools in the United States.
Thriving Arts Scene
The Michigan Council for Arts and Cultural Affairs offers a lengthy list revealing the millions of grants received by arts and culture organizations, including grants awarded to schools with a focus on the arts.
The state is home to the Detroit Institute of Arts, the Frederick Meijer Gardens and Sculpture Park, the Interlochen Center for the Arts, and the famous College for Creative Studies located in Detroit. Art collections and museums are also high in numbers from the Henry Ford Museum to the world-famous Diego Rivera Detroit Industry collection -- and everything in between.
Positive Job Outlook
With affordable homes and a low cost of living, investors and long-time corporate giants are taking advantage of the State's economy. Several companies have expanded their workforce including Gentex. Chrysler and Quicken Loans. According to MI Live, although unemployment levels remain comparable to national levels, job growth is up. Jobs grew by 8,000 in September of 2013 and overall the "labor force is up by 74,000."
There are also opportunities for job retraining and Michigan residents are taking advantage of those opportunities. Job growth is up in the manufacturing, trade, transportation, leisure and hospitality, education, and health service industries. And, with the expected federal aid in 2014, construction is expected to rise.
If you're looking to relocate, these are just seven reasons the Michigan should be an area to consider.