Best Michigan Winter Cities to Visit

Although the minority, there are people in this world who love winter more than summer, for example. Because of this, many people cannot really settle down or call a place with constant sunshine their home. Luckily, there are plenty of different areas and cities in the US that can satisfy the needs of every preference. That is why today we are going to talk about the best Michigan winter cities to visit or live in. Of course, moving, as a process, is quite difficult. Hence, you will most likely need assistance. If that is the case, consider hiring Best Long Distance Movers to help you with your relocation process. Winter is a magical season. However, moving during the winter is everything but magical. Luckily, with professional movers by your side, relocating in the snow will not be as hard as it seems.

Life in Michigan

Whether you’re considering relocating or visiting Michigan, it’s important to explore all the opportunities this state offers. Also, if you are a fan of winter landscapes and colder weather, you are in the right place. Michigan is a state with a high population and is known as the land of the Great Lakes. This state really has a lot to offer, both to older people and younger people, as well as to kids. When we talk about living in Michigan, you’ll have an affordable cost of living, as well as affordable housing prices. And in addition, this state offers you to enjoy nature and beautiful landscapes, white and green.

What is also very important to say is that this state has had its ups and downs when it comes to the economy, but regardless, Michigan still attracts a large number of residents. Statistics have shown that from January 2021 to February 2022, 169,806 residents moved to Michigan.

You will surely wonder what attracts new residents to the land of the great lakes. One of the main things is the low cost of living, which is 10% below the national average. Also, affordable real estate prices are 23% lower than the national average and amount to about $234,386. While rent prices are around $930 per month. When we talk about other household necessities, such as food and clothing, the prices are 4% lower than the national average. But there is also something that is slightly above the national average, namely utilities (1%). This state offers you many other benefits, but like every state in the USA, Michigan has its pros and cons. And here, it can be one of the ideal destinations for your winter vacation.

Pros and cons of living in Michigan

When you are thinking about moving to Michigan, it is very important that you are familiar with all the advantages and disadvantages of the state. That way, you will know what is missing. But what we advise you to do is to research all the possibilities that are offered to you thoroughly. And now, we will reveal to you some of the pros and cons of this state:

PROS:

• Michigan’s small towns are the best places to live. Small towns are ideal for families and offer you direct contact with nature.
• Big cities offer you an urban and fun life. Detroit is one of those cities, which offers you the opportunity to live in the center of the city and many more modern conveniences.
• The economy has successfully recovered and now offers many favorable opportunities for work and life.
• Affordable real estate and rental prices.
• Your neighbors will be creative and sociable people who also live in this state.
• Low crime rate.
• You’ll try Sweetwater’s Donuts and Mackinac Island fudge, which are some of Michigan’s most famous treats.
• Lots of fun and fellowship.
• Affordable living costs, with a high standard of living.

CONS:

• Snow can cause traffic jams and lock you in your house.
• Businesses and schools are closed during snowy days.
• As a consequence of the large number of tourists, it will be difficult to find a free place in the summer.
• Changeable weather. The weather can change within 15 minutes.

So, we can conclude that snow creates many problems in everyday movement. But don’t worry, because it won’t last all winter. Also, we’re sure your kids will be looking forward to the snow because there are plenty of winter activities for kids in Michigan.

Best Michigan winter cities to visit

The state of Michigan is located in the Great Lakes region of the Upper Midwest of the United States of America. Furthermore, Michigan is the tenth most populous state in the US, having around 10.2 million residents. The capital seat of the state is the city of Lansing. However, the biggest city is Detroit. Furthermore, the Detroit Metropolitan Area is one of the most populous and has the largest metropolitan economy in the US.

The Lower Peninsula of Michigan is mostly focused on manufacturing, agriculture, forestry, and high-tech industry. Therefore, you will easily find a job here and have the opportunity to earn over 60,000 dollars a year. However, the Upper Peninsula relies on tourism the most due to an abundance of natural resources in the area. And also, you can take advantage of the fact that tourism is very popular in this state and start a small business. The state has a continental climate. Moreover, the south and central parts of the Lower Peninsula have a warmer climate. On the other hand, the northern part of the Lower and the entirety of the Upper Peninsula have a much harsher climate.

Troy

• Population: 84.055
• Median home value/rent per month: $301.500 /$1.215
• Median household income: $101.900

This densely suburban town is one of the best places to live in the entire state of Michigan. Furthermore, being only 16 miles northwest of downtown Detroit, Troy represents the perfect place to live. Just outside of the big city but close enough to feel comfortable being there. The majority of the population of Troy, around 75%, own their homes. Furthermore, Troy offers great educational opportunities by having a great public schooling sector in the area. Because of this, the city attracts many younger people who want to pursue their education. During the winter, the lowest temperatures in the city will vary from 16 degrees Fahrenheit to 22 degrees Fahrenheit. Relying on the best long distance movers Michigan will make the process of moving easier for you.

Ann Arbor

• Population: 121.000
• Median home value/rent per month: $323.400 /$1.240
• Median household income: $66.000

Welcome to the city of Ann Arbor, one of the cities with the best public schools in America. Furthermore, as a city through the Huron River runs, Ann Arbor offers many different outdoor activities for its residents. One of the main advantages of this is the numerous parks that spread out through the city territory. Namely, the river allows the residents to create various sports and other outdoor activities alongside its shoreline. The climate of the city is Midwestern humid continental. This means that the city experiences all four seasons. However, winters are very cold and full of snow. Average temperatures are around 34 degrees Fahrenheit. Moving into one of the best Michigan winter cities to visit or live in will be easier with long distance moving companies Ann Arbor.

Grand Rapids is on the list of one of the best Michigan winter cities to visit

• Population: 198.960
• Median home value/rent per month: $143.300 /$930
• Median household income: $50.150

Grand Rapids is a city, as well as the county seat, in Kent County, Michigan. Located on the banks of the Grand River, this western Michigan city is the second-largest city in the state. After long distance movers Grand Rapids help you move, you should start venturing into this lovely city. From one of the oldest museums in the nation to presidential museums and amazing sightseeing, there are plenty of things you can do in the city. Although the city also has a humid continental climate, the proximity of Lake Michigan has a lot of effect on the weather. Hence, you might expect harsher winds and more chills in the air when walking through the city in the winter. Furthermore, the lake also affects the snowstorms, which bring a lot of snowfall into the area.

Muskegon

• Population: 35.110
• Median home value/rent per month: $73.000 /$706
• Median household income: $32.500

Muskegon is a town in Muskegon County, Michigan. The county itself occupies a large portion on the western part of the state and the eastern part of Lake Michigan. For the most part, the town is very appealing to people that want to get in touch with nature. Furthermore, because the town is known for fishing, sailing, and pleasure boating, it is a great place for those with such hobbies. In addition, the town is also a commercial cruise port.

Furthermore, the Muskegon State Park offers great hiking and biking trails for outdoor enthusiasts. So, if you are one of those people and plan to move to the area, you should utilize these tips to make your house-hunting more successful. Muskegon has a humid continental climate and is affected by Lake Michigan.

Mackinac Island

• Population: 480
• Median home value/rent per month: $373.300 /$600
• Median household income: $47.300

Welcome to Mackinac Island, a small town nestled on an island between the Upper and Lower Peninsula of Michigan. This urban-suburban area attracts a lot of younger professionals into the area. Because of this, 65% of the population rents their home instead of owning them. Furthermore, the old-world charm the island has will attract those that love living in places that have a history all around. Because the island banned cars, most tourists arrive by boat or by plane.

Furthermore, the state park covers around 80% of the island territory. Mackinac Island might not be the fastest-growing city in the US, but it offers a great sense of community, good quality of life, and a haven for winter lovers. Because of this, Mackinac Island is on our list of best Michigan winter cities to visit.

We cannot leave Detroit out of our list of best Michigan winter cities to visit

• Population: 672.351
• Median home value/rent per month: $52.700 /$850
• Median household income: $32.498

We cannot list the best Michigan cities you should visit without talking about the most populous and largest city in the state. Namely, the city of Detroit is in Wayne County and is the seat of the same county. The whole metropolitan area of Detroit has more than 4.3 million people living in it. Furthermore, the city is the main port on the Detroit River, making it one of the most important industries in the city. If you are planning to move to Detroit, hiring long distance movers Detroit will allow you to grasp the process in the best manner possible. Winters in the city are cold, with moderate snowfall. Around 4.4 days annually are below the freezing point in temperature. Detroit represents the cultural melting point of the state.

Detroit is also one of the favorite cities for newcomers to Michigan

The diversity of Detroit is one of the reasons why this city is popular among newcomers. People from almost all corners of the world live in Detroit, from African-Americans to Mexicans. Also, Detroit is not a city that divides the population, and they accept all residents. Here you will have the opportunity to meet many people, different religions, cultures, and customs, but also to learn something new. What makes Detroit one of the favorites is that the cost of living in this city is the cheapest, which is confirmed by the information on the price of real estate and rent that you can see above.

Detroit is a city worth moving to. What makes it like this is that this city is rated as one of the most innovative cities in the entire USA. And as such, it offers many business opportunities. And it is ideal for young professionals who want to work, learn and progress. Also, Detroit is one of the most beautiful cities in winter, and the coldest month is January. Another advantage of this city is traffic. You will hardly be able to see crowds on the streets of Detroit, and people use multiple modes of transportation to work. An interesting fact is that 64.9% of people in Detroit travel to work by car, 13% drive with their colleagues and friends, 3.8% work from home, and the other 7.8% use public transportation.

Also, some of the reasons why Detroit is a favorite of newcomers are the music and entertainment that this city is actually known for. Also, art is a trademark of Detroit as are the magnificent works of art that you will be able to see in this city. And, of course, this city is a paradise for lovers of food and specialties. Given that people of different origins live here, you will have the opportunity to enjoy specialties whose recipes come from the other side of the world. Trust us, this will be your favorite Detroit feature, and you’ll even forget you’re cooking at home.

Traverse City

• Population: 15.905
• Median home value/rent per month: $266.100 /$905
• Median household income: $57.080

The county seat of Grand Traverse County, Traverse City is one of the leading producers of tart cherry in the US. Furthermore, in the first week of July, the city hosts the annual National Cherry Festival. In addition, there are plenty of grape fields and wineries in the area. This attracts a lot of people every year. During the winter, the city also thrives on tourism as well. Located along the Grand Traverse Bay, Traverse City is a great place for a winter holiday with your family. From the snow-covered trails of the Sleeping Bay Dune to the ski slopes in Hickory Hills, Traverse City makes an ideal place for a family-oriented winter holiday. Moreover, Traverse City is more of a tourist town than a place to move and live in.

Munising

• Population:2.195
• Median home value/rent per month: $99.200 /$615
• Median household income: $36.300

Welcome to the “snowmobile capital of the Midwest”. Being a part of the Upper Michigan Peninsula, the town of Munising represents a great addition to our list of best Michigan winter cities to visit. Although we cannot say that moving because you love winter is one of the most common reasons people migrate, there will always be people that do it because of that. So, whether visiting or moving to Munising, you will have a great time, especially during the winter. The town is has a lot of waterfalls in the region, which makes a great tourist attraction. In addition, the town has a humid continental climate, making summers cool or warm and winters harsh. Furthermore, being on the Upper Peninsula affects the cold as well.

The city of Holland is also on our list of the best Michigan winter cities to visit

• Population: 33.100
• Median home value/rent per month: $151.300 /$880
• Median household income: $57.000

Do you know how you can tell that you are in a city or town that has a lot of snow? Well, one of the telltale signs of that could be the heated sidewalks the city of Holland has. Located in the western region of the Lower Peninsula, the city of Holland actually expands into Ottawa County, Canada, aside from being in Allegan County. Located on Lake Macatawa, the city of Holland offers a lot of winter activities that you can enjoy with friends, your loved ones, or your family. One of the biggest attractions is the frozen beach in Holland State Park. Now, Holland might not be on the list of best places for young professionals in Michigan, but it surely has its beauty. Utilizing the most out of winter is best done in Holland.

If you are looking for fun wintertime, go north

The more up north you go, the colder it gets. As we were saying, the Upper Peninsula of the state is much colder than the lower part. The majority of national parks and festivals that occur during the winter will be in the Upper Peninsula. Of course, that is not to say that there are no places to visit in the Lower Peninsula as well. In fact, we did mention many places from the Lower Peninsula in this list of best Michigan winter cities to visit.

Furthermore, whether you are planning to visit or to stay here, make sure you do your research. If you are planning to live in the Upper Peninsula, think twice. The weather can get really cold, and ice is a common thing to fight during the winter.

Michigan offers fun and outdoor activities for all generations

There’s almost nothing in Michigan that your kids will look forward to more than a blanket of white snow. If you choose to live in Michigan, you will have winter vacations every year, maybe even several times during the winter. Because as we told you before, a large number of businesses close during snowy days, and this is the ideal time you can spend having fun outside with friends, family, and your children. When winter approaches, these states begin their preparations for various activities. Lakes play havoc with skaters, golf courses are transformed into ski lodges, and stands are open for hot drinks and children’s favorite hot chocolate.

There are many activities that will occupy you during the winter days. Some of them are skiing, ice skating, sledding, and snowmobile racing, allowing you to try driving a snowmobile yourself on one of the 6,500 organized tracks for snowmobile racing in Michigan. Also, there are other activities like riding fat tire bikes, visiting frozen waterfalls, and trying climbing, and you can always go to a free school for beginners. Also, the indoor water parks in Michigan are ideal fun for the whole family. Swim, and enjoy waterslides, wave pools, and rooms decorated in a North Woods log cabin theme.

Now, we will greet you with the 3 best Michigan small winter cities

If you want to escape from the hustle and bustle of big cities, and rest or settle in small towns, near lakes, which will offer you peace and quiet life in contact with nature, consider these 3 winter cities in Michigan that we will introduce you to. Also, if you want to rest for a few days, consider these small towns as one of your vacation destinations.

The first city on our list is Quincy. This is a small town with 1,200 inhabitants. The “Gateway to the Chain of Lakes,” as the city is otherwise known, is home to the Quincy Chain of Lakes Council Festival. If you want to have fun and at the same time take a break from the hustle and bustle of the city, this is the ideal place for you. This is a small village near the interconnected lakes First, Marble, Middle, Archer, and Bartholomew. The location of this place is ideal for fishing enthusiasts, and one of the main activities is ice fishing. This city also holds various festivals, such as craft shows, fishing balls, fishing competitions, and many interesting activities for children.

Also, here you will be entertained by live snowmobile races and woodcutter competitions. Quincy is also one of the ideal places to live, with a low cost of living, low crime rate, pleasant and friendly people, and many, many more opportunities.

Pentwater

Pentwater is one of the smallest cities in Michigan but also one of the least populated. The population of this place is about 730 inhabitants, but in the last few years, a significant number of people who left this place have been recorded. Pentwater looks like a town that will shut down, but believe us, it’s not. This town offers you many possibilities, one of which is a comfortable life with a very low cost of living. Besides, entertainment is the best in this city. And Pentwater’s Winterfest is one of the most beautiful events in this city, where you will really be able to experience winter like all other winter magic.

What makes this place so special is the Victorian houses and beautiful wooden cottages with large gardens that adorn the neighborhoods of this small town. Everything you need is within walking distance of the marina, shops, restaurants, public beach, and village center. This city has many other interesting events, such as a two-week festival that takes place during the second and third week of February, where you can participate in various competitions such as fishing, Snowman Scram 5K, and skiing.

Kalkaska – One of the most beautiful winter villages in Michigan

Kalkaska is another one of the three best Michigan small winter cities that will leave you breathless whether you want to live here or spend a few days as a tourist. If you are thinking about living in this city, then the information that this place has very affordable real estate prices will be very useful to you. House prices are around $90,000, which is almost 40% more than in Denver. But that’s why rental prices are cheaper than in Denver, and they amount to about $600 a month. About 2,000 dignitaries live in Kalkaska, of which 19% are 65+. This information could indicate that this place is ideal for retirement. So, what’s Kalkaska like in the winter?

Kalkaska is known as one of the villages in Michigan that has the most diverse winter activities. Also, the snow that covers all the surfaces of this small town will create truly wonderful landscapes that will amaze you. Since 1965, this small town has hosted the annual Kalkaska Wiener Fest, a celebration of winter activities where you’ll be able to see a wide variety of talents while also bringing the spirit of life to Northern Michigan. In addition, you can enjoy activities such as sledding, skiing, snowmobiling, and quad biking, as well as ice fishing and ice skating. And after outdoor activities, stop by one of the local pubs for hot tea or hot chocolate.

As you progress north, the more expensive your move or trip will be

Not only does the state of Michigan expand to the north and northwest, but it also has a very diverse geography, as well. From mountain ranges to dense forests and various lakes and rivers, the state of Michigan is more diverse than you think. Finally, the fact that the state separates into two different peninsulas with different climates shows how much diversity you can expect there. However, different terrains and weather conditions usually mean higher moving expenses.

So, if moving, make sure you learn the average expense for the move before you embark on it. That way, you will be able to have much better financial control. Until now, you have been able to get to know some of the best cities for entertainment, winter activities, and also for life. But also several small towns and villages can be your peaceful haven, far from the hustle and bustle. Think about your needs and make a decision. With this, we conclude our list of the best Michigan winter cities to visit or live in.