Pros and Cons of Living in Michigan

Having spent approximately 16 years of my life in Northern Michigan, I have developed a love for my home state and I will always consider myself a “Yooper” at heart. This is a rough guide which highlights some of the things that I consider positive and negative aspects about living in Michigan. The pros and cons are my personal opinions and are to be taken with a grain of salt.

Surrounded by water. I consider this a very positive point. No matter where you live, almost anywhere you turn in Michigan will find a body of water nearby. It provides a constant source of “fun” during the beautiful summer months. Boating, jet skiing, or just lounging on the beach are all perfect Michigan summer activities.

Great for Outdoorsy Types. Michigan provides some of the best resources for outdoor activities. If you are a fan of hunting, fishing, or camping, you probably won’t find any place better than Michigan for participating in these types of activities.

Beautiful Scenery. From the time-traveling awe of Mackinac Island, to the vibrant color-changing leaves in the Autumn, to the majestic Tahquamenon Falls, there is so much to see in Michigan and so much beauty to take in. With the weather uncertainty most of the time, it is a constant Kodak moment! Low Housing Costs. You’d be surprised what kind of housing you can get for your money here. It is pleasantly affordable.

Experience All of The Seasons. This can be especially nice if you are moving from somewhere where the climate doesn’t change much all year around. In Michigan, you get a dose of Spring, Summer, Fall, and (especially) Winter.

Winter Weather. The winters in Michigan are frigid cold, and most often accompanied by large amounts of snow and ice. This is a personal downfall for me because I don’t enjoy cold weather. However, it can be positive for those who enjoy partaking in winter sports such as skiing and snowboarding. Winter weather typically lasts from the end of October through the end of April, which can often seem very long and the lack of color can become depressing.

Driving In The Winter. If you are planning a move to Michigan and you are aren’t used to driving in the snow, be sure to put snow tires on your vehicle and drive with increased caution. The road conditions can become extremely dangerous, and it may be difficult to get used to driving in the snow.

Current Economy. The employment rate in Michigan is currently at 9%, and the job market is extremely scarce. It may be a good idea to secure a job before deciding to make the move.
Unpredictable Weather. The weather in all parts of Michigan can fluctuate a lot throughout the day. One moment, it may be perfectly sunny, and the next you may find yourself standing in the rain. “If you don’t like the weather, wait 5 minutes.” It’s a rule to live by here.