Moving to Michigan (Pros & Cons of Relocating)

Ryan Carrigan
Ryan Carrigan
 • 5 min read
checkmarkFact Checked by: Hilary Snow

Thinking of moving to Michigan? You're not alone. The Wolverine State draws in folks from everywhere. Whether you're after the excitement of Detroit or the charm of quiet small towns, there's likely a perfect spot waiting for you.

Michigan has plenty to offer, but before making the move and buying a home, take a moment to weigh the pros and cons.

We'll break down what you should know about Michigan, then help you find movers for your route.

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Pros & cons of living in Michigan

Like any big move, relocating to Michigan comes with its own upsides and potential downsides that are important to consider.

Pros

  • ✓Scenic beauty
  • ✓Good higher education
  • ✓Bountiful recreational opportunities
  • ✓Low cost of living
  • ✓Beautiful lakes

Cons

  • ✖Cold snowy winters
  • ✖Spotty economic opportunity
  • ✖Poor transportation infrastructure
  • ✖Expensive education
  • ✖Thick accents

Top cities to consider in Michigan

City Population Avg. rent Crime index
Detroit 639,111 $1,250 72.92
Grand Rapids 198,893 $1,659 44.23
Warren 138,588 $1,184 26.47

Michigan financial and tax breakdown

Here are some key numbers to budget for before you move:

Metric Michigan
Cost of living index* 92
State income tax 4.25%
Average rent $1,037
Average home value $245,716
Average income (per capita) $68,505

*100-point scale. Under 100 is cheaper than the national average; over 100 is more expensive.

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Michigan climate & safety

Michigan has a continental climate, although there are two distinct regions. The southern and central parts of the Lower Peninsula (south of Saginaw Bay and from the Grand Rapids area southward) have a warmer climate with hot summers and cold winters. The northern part of the Lower Peninsula and the entire Upper Peninsula has a more severe climate (Köppen Dfb), with warm, but shorter summers and longer, cold to very cold winters. Some parts of the state average high temperatures below freezing from December through February, and into early March in the far northern parts. During the winter through the middle of February, the state is frequently subjected to heavy lake-effect snow. The state averages 30 days of thunderstorm activity per year. These can be severe, especially in the southern part of the state. The state averages 17 tornadoes per year, which are more common in the state's extreme southern section.

That statewide crime index is just an average. Safety in Michigan can swing widely from one city or neighborhood to the next, so dig into local numbers for the specific area you're eyeing.

Metric Michigan
Summer high 81ºF
Winter low 14ºF
Annual rain 34"
Annual snow 64"
Crime index 19.98
Climate risk

Michigan's climate carries risk of tornadoes, which can meaningfully affect your homeowners and flood insurance premiums. Get insurance quotes early in your home search so there are no surprises in your moving budget.

Planning your move to Michigan

Job market

On the employment front, Michigan's economy is driven primarily by Manufacturing, Professional and business services, and Real estate and rental and leasing. Job opportunities tend to concentrate in the larger metro areas, so your city will matter as much as the state overall.

Michigan's top economic sectors by output:

  • Manufacturing ($99.2 billion)
  • Professional and business services ($70.5 billion)
  • Real estate and rental and leasing ($63.3 billion)
  • Educational services, health care, and social assistance ($49.5 billion)
  • Wholesale trade ($34.8 billion)

Schools

Moving with young children? Research the specific school districts serving whichever city or neighborhood you're considering; districts vary widely within Michigan, so the statewide statistics won't tell you much about any one school your kids would actually attend.

If you or a family member are looking at higher education instead, here are some of the top universities in Michigan:

  • University of Michigan
  • Michigan State University
  • Michigan Technological University
  • Wayne State University
  • Western Michigan University
  • Grand Valley State University
  • Calvin University
  • University of Michigan-Dearborn

How to move to Michigan: a quick checklist

Here are the basics for a Michigan move. For a more detailed guide, see our complete moving checklist.

  1. Choose your city: See the popular Michigan cities listed below for ideas.
  2. Map out your budget: Michigan's cost of living and tax rates vary from city to city.
  3. Get work and schooling sorted: This one’s especially important if you're relocating as a family.
  4. Settle your housing situation: Decide between renting and buying before locking in a move date.
  5. Register your license and vehicle: Most Michigan residents need to do this within 30 days of moving.
  6. Arrange utilities ahead of time: Call providers 2–3 weeks before you move in, and budget more if you’re moving somewhere that’s hot in summer.
  7. Reserve your movers: Check your specific route below to compare options.
  8. Update where your mail and accounts go: This includes your bank, insurance, and voter registration.

Popular City Destinations in Michigan

Choose your route to Michigan

FAQ

Is it worth it to move to Michigan?

Moving to Michigan is worth it if you're interested in the attractions the state has to offer, enjoy the local climate, and the cost of living fits your budget. Weigh the pros and cons above against your own priorities before deciding.

How much money should I have to move to Michigan?

Michigan has a cost of living index of 92 on a 100-point scale, where 100 is the national average. Use that alongside average rent and home values above to gauge your budget.

Does Michigan have a state income tax?

Michigan's state income tax rate is 4.25%. Keep in mind you'll still owe federal income tax, and other state-level taxes, such as property and sales tax, apply on top of it.

What are the job prospects like in Michigan?

Michigan's economy is anchored by Manufacturing, Professional and business services, and Real estate and rental and leasing. The strongest job markets are typically in and around the largest metro areas; smaller and rural communities tend to have fewer opportunities outside of local service industries. Research your city's employment landscape before committing to a move.

What is the downside of living in Michigan?

The most common downsides of living in Wolverine State include:

  • Cold snowy winters
  • Spotty economic opportunity
  • Poor transportation infrastructure
  • Expensive education
  • Thick accents

What is there to do in Michigan?

Michigan offers a wide range of activities depending on where you settle. Larger cities like Detroit have dining, arts, sports, and nightlife, while smaller towns and rural areas tend to focus on outdoor recreation and community events. Research the specific city or region you're targeting to get a realistic picture of day-to-day life.