Michigan offers a striking natural beauty, from the freshwater shores of the Great Lakes to the dense forests of the Upper Peninsula. Cities like Grand Rapids has a thriving craft beer culture, while Ann Arbor is known for its world-class university. However, living in Michigan also comes with challenges, from challenging infrastructure to freezing winters. In this ApartmentGuide article, we’ll break down the pros and cons of life in the Great Lakes State to help you decide if Michigan is a good place to live.
Renting in Michigan snapshot
| Population | 10,140,459 |
| Avg. studio rent | $736 per month |
| Avg. one-bedroom rent | $874 per month |
| Avg. two-bedroom rent | $1,047 per month |
| Most affordable cities to rent in Michigan | Pontiac, Flint, Taylor |
| Most walkable cities in Michigan | Hamtramck, Ferndale, Ypsilanti |
1. Pro: Full of interesting history and culture
Michigan is steeped in history that’s impossible to ignore. Detroit’s Motown Museum showcases the city’s musical legacy, complete with costumes, recording equipment, and memorabilia. The Henry Ford Museum of American Innovation in Dearborn offers a glimpse into the state’s industrial legacy, showcasing everything from early automobiles to the Rosa Parks bus. Elsewhere, you’ll find festivals like the East Lansing Film Festival, which celebrates storytelling from around the world. Michigan’s cultural roots extend beyond the museums—tour historic lighthouses on the Great Lakes or visit Mackinac Island to experience a slice of the past.
2. Con: Winters test your patience here
Michigan winters are no joke. From November through March, heavy snow blankets much of the state, particularly in the Upper Peninsula, where lake-effect snow can pile up several feet high. Roads become treacherous with icy patches, snow drifts, and whiteouts, making commutes hazardous. Heating bills often skyrocket as temperatures dip well below freezing. Snow removal becomes part of the daily routine—whether that’s scraping ice off your windshield, shoveling driveways, or firing up the snowblower before heading to work. For those not used to harsh winters, the season can feel overwhelming.
3. Pro: Beautiful landscapes throughout
If you’re new to the state, Michigan is full of beautiful landscapes. The Great Lake offer miles of pristine beaches and clear freshwater, while the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore provides towering dunes that roll into turquoise waters. In the Upper Peninsula, Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore features colorful cliffs and waterfalls, a favorite for kayaking or exploring by boat. Additionally, Michigan’s 100+ state parks include gems like Tahquamenon Falls, where you can hike trails that lead to breathtaking waterfalls.
4. Con: Summers are hot and sticky
Summers in Michigan come with a sticky side. High humidity levels can make the 80–90°F temperatures feel much hotter, leaving you drenched in sweat after just a short time outside. Humidity also brings challenges like increased mold growth, which can affect indoor air quality and cause health problems for some residents. This weather can make outdoor activities like gardening, hiking, or even grilling out on the patio feel uncomfortable.
5. Pro: Music and art rule the state
Michigan has a rich tradition of creativity that shines through its vibrant arts and music scene. Each summer, the Detroit Jazz Festival draws thousands of visitors with free performances by renowned artists, celebrating the city’s musical roots. In Ann Arbor, the annual Art Fair transforms the streets into one of the nation’s largest outdoor art showcases, featuring everything from fine art to crafts. Even smaller cities like Grand Rapids embrace the arts, hosting events like ArtPrize, where the entire city becomes an open gallery for innovative installations.
6. Con: Prepare to dodge the potholes
Driving in Michigan means contending with some seriously rough roads. The freeze-thaw cycle wreaks havoc on asphalt, leaving behind potholes that can damage tires, rims, and suspension systems. Residents joke about the “Michigan left” and the “Michigan pothole dodge,” but the issue is no laughing matter when it leads to costly repairs.
7. Pro: Top-notch education opportunities
Michigan is home to some of the nation’s top universities. The University of Michigan in Ann Arbor is a world-renowned institution known for its research programs, academic rigor, and spirited football Saturdays. Michigan State University in East Lansing offers diverse programs and a vibrant campus life surrounded by natural beauty. Smaller schools like Kalamazoo College or Hope College provide excellent liberal arts education in more intimate settings.
8. Con: The weather is unpredictable
If you like consistency, Michigan’s weather isn’t for you. Snow in spring, summer storms, and fall heatwaves are all part of the experience. One day it’s sunny and warm; the next, it’s sleeting. This unpredictability can make planning outdoor events challenging, and residents often joke that you can experience all four seasons in one day.
9. Pro: Sports and adventure are everywhere
Detroit is home to professional teams like the Tigers (MLB), Lions (NFL), Pistons (NBA), and Red Wings (NHL), offering year-round excitement for fans. Additionally, if you want to explore nature, there’s a range of activities to enjoy. Sail or fish on the Great Lakes, ski at resorts like Crystal Mountain, or explore hundreds of miles of trails for hiking and biking. Golfers can enjoy world-class courses, while hunters and anglers find plenty of opportunities to test their skills.
10. Con: When flowers bloom, so do allergies
Michigan’s lush greenery comes at a price for allergy sufferers. Spring and summer bring high pollen counts from trees, grasses, and flowers, leaving many residents battling sneezing fits, itchy eyes, and congestion. Areas near forests or large gardens, such as those in Traverse City or Midland, can exacerbate symptoms.
11. Pro: Lakes, lakes and more lakes
The Great Lakes are Michigan’s crown jewel, providing endless opportunities for fun and relaxation. Lake Michigan’s shores are dotted with charming beach towns like Holland and Saugatuck, where you can swim, sunbathe, or explore boutique shops. Lake Superior offers dramatic cliffs and remote beaches perfect for hiking and solitude. Winter activities like ice fishing and skating ensure the lakes remain a draw year-round.
12. Con: You’ll want a car to get around
Outside of major cities, Michigan’s public transportation options are often limited, leaving residents reliant on personal vehicles for commuting and travel. In fact, in Ferndale, the transit score is 13, meaning the city is car-dependent where almost all errands require a car. This lack of comprehensive public transit infrastructure can pose challenges for those without access to cars, particularly in rural areas.
Methodology : The population data is from the United States Census Bureau, walkable cities are from Walk Score, and rental data is from ApartmentGuide.
