10 Largest Cities in Michigan

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Moving To Michigan

Michigan is situated in the Midwestern United States. Michigan is the tenth most populous state, with over 9.9 million residents. It is the largest state by total area east of the Mississippi River. Michigan is known for its diverse landscape, including forested areas, lakes, and rivers. The Upper Peninsula is known for its natural beauty, including waterfalls, Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore, and Mackinaw Island. The Lower Peninsula is home to the state capital of Lansing, as well as Detroit, the largest city in the state. Michigan is also home to several universities, including the University of Michigan, Michigan State University, and Wayne State University.

When considering a move to Michigan, many people wonder about the employability in the state. Luckily, Michigan is a great state for finding employment. The state’s economy is diversified, with strong manufacturing, agriculture, healthcare, and tourism sectors. As a result, people who are moving to Michigan can feel confident that they will be able to find a job that suits their skills and interests. With its strong economy and low unemployment rates, Michigan is an ideal state for those looking for employment.

Michigan is a huge state with plenty of beautiful scenery to offer its residents. If you’re moving to Michigan, you’ll want to know about the largest cities in the state. Each city has its unique personality and attractions that make it worth exploring. Whether you’re looking for a big city with all the amenities or a smaller town with a more relaxed vibe, Michigan has something for everyone.

1. Detroit

Wayne County’s largest city is Detroit, located in the state. It was founded in 1701 by a French trader on the northwest bank of the Detroit River that joins Lakes Erie and St. Clair. It is also the largest city on the US-Canada border.

There is no doubt that Detroit has seen better days. The city has been hit hard by the automotive industry’s decline, and its once-vibrant downtown has fallen into disrepair. However, Detroit is starting to make a comeback. Several businesses have moved into the city, and its downtown area is undergoing revitalization. There is still much beauty in the city, from the art deco architecture of the Fox Theatre to the belle epoque mansions of Palmer Park. In addition, Detroit is home to several world-class museums, including the Detroit Institute of Arts and the Henry Ford Museum. These cultural attractions help make Detroit a more attractive place to live and work.

The automobile industry is centered in Detroit, which is also noted for being the birthplace of Henry Ford and the beginning of the mass production of cars. Furthermore, they also contribute to the city’s economy by attracting visitors and generating jobs. As a result, the beauty of Detroit is not only skin deep but also supports the city’s employability.

Upsides:

  • Liveability
  • Low Cost of Living
  • Good Education

Downsides:

  • Limited Public Transportation
  • High Poverty Rate
  • High Crime Rate

Quick Facts:

  • Population – 675,000
  • Median Value Of Home – $64,856
  • Median Rent – $1,166
  • Overall Cost of Living Compared to National Average 100 – 87.6
  • Employability Rate – 90.4
  • Crime Rate per 1000 residents – 55.84 (22.58 Violent and 33.26 Property)
  • The headquarters of Ford Motor Company, General Motors, and Stellaris North America is located in Detroit, Michigan, and they account for almost all of the city’s major employers.

Best neighborhoods in Detroit:

Palmer Woods, Downtown Detroit, Sherwood Forest, Brush Park, Bagley, and West Village

See Also: What Salary Do You Need to Live in Detroit?

CALCULATE MY MOVE

2. Grand Rapids

The city of Grand Rapids is located in Kent County, Michigan, and it is recognized as one of the finest places to live and retire in the United States. It’s Michigan’s second-largest metropolis after Detroit. Grand Rapids has long been known as a city of beauty and art. The Grand River flows through the city’s heart, and the many bridges and parks offer stunning views. The downtown area is filled with historic buildings, museums, and theaters, while the surrounding neighborhoods are home to many shops and restaurants. Grand Rapids has also been recognized as a top-tier city for employment in recent years.

Grand Rapids is an excellent choice for those looking to move to Michigan with its combination of beauty and opportunity. It is home to the best furniture companies in the world. Additionally, Grand Rapids was recently named the most affordable major city in the United States. As a result, it is no surprise that Grand Rapids is one of the fastest-growing cities in Michigan.

Upsides:

  • Air Quality
  • Good Education
  • Average Cost of Living
  • Low property Tax

Downsides:

  • Climate gets Cold
  • Lack of Diversity

Quick Facts:

  • Population – 198,000
  • Median Value Of Home – $252,688
  • Median Rent – $1,324
  • Overall Cost of Living Compared to National Average 100 – 87.8
  • Employability Rate – 93.7
  • Crime Rate per 1000 residents – 27.31 (7.31 Violent and 20.00 Property)
  • Spectrum Health, Meijer, and Amway Corporation provide a job for many citizens.

Best neighborhoods in Grand Rapids:

Creston, Alger Heights, John Ball Park, Eastgate, Fulton Heights, Ottawa Hills, and Westside Connection

3. Ann Arbor

Ann Arbor is a beautiful city located in the state of Michigan. The city is home to the University of Michigan, one of the country’s largest universities. In the United States, Ann Arbor is recognized as the most educated city.

Ann Arbor is also known for its vibrant downtown area full of shops and restaurants. The city is popular with creative individuals, nature enthusiasts, sports fans, music listeners, foodies, and others who want to live life.The city is home to various businesses, and it has a strong economy. Ann Arbor is an attractive place to live, and it is also a great place to work. The city offers a variety of employment opportunities, and it is a great place to raise a family. The city’s proximity to Detroit is another factor that entices people to move there.

Ann Arbor is a beautiful city that offers its residents a high quality of life.

Upsides:

  • Reasonable Cost of Living
  • Low Crime Rate
  • Good Education
  • Proximity to Chicago
  • Low Poverty Rate

Downsides:

  • High Traffic
  • Cold Winters

Quick Facts:

  • Population – 121,000
  • Median Value of Home – $470,751
  • Median Rent – $1,789
  • Overall Cost of Living Compared to National Average 100 – 117.5
  • Employability Rate – 96.5
  • Crime Rate per 1000 residents – 18.75 (2.91 Violent and 15.84 Property)
  • The University of Michigan, General Motors Proving Grounds, and Ann Arbor Healthcare System are some of the top employers in the city.

Best neighborhoods in Ann Arbor

West Park, South Main, Downtown, Burns Park, Old West Side, and Allen

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4. Warren

It is a small town with a lot to offer. Warren is a city in Macomb County, Michigan, in the state’s south-eastern part.

The city’s proximity to Detroit makes it a great place to live for those who want to be close to the action, but its unique character ensures that there’s always something to do in Warren. The city is home to various businesses and cultural attractions, and its diverse population lends itself to a vibrant nightlife and dining scene. Due to this, Warren’s unemployment rate is gradually declining. In addition, Warren’s convenient location makes it a great place to live for those who want to commute to Detroit for work or leisure. Warren is worth considering whether you’re looking for an exciting place to live or a convenient place to work.

Upsides:

  • Livability
  • Low Cost of Living
  • Low Crime Rate
  • Good Education

Downsides:

  • Environmental Factors from Population Density

Quick Facts:

  • Population – 135,000
  • Median Value of Home – $179,281
  • Median Rent – $921
  • Overall Cost of Living Compared to National Average 100 – 92.3
  • Employability Rate – 94.8
  • Crime Rate per 1000 residents – 18.88 (4.86 Violent and 14.02 Property)
  • General Motors Technical Center, Chrysler, US Army technical and research facilities, St. John Macomb Hospital, and Art Van are among the city’s major employers.

Best neighborhoods in Warren:

PiperVan Dyke, Warrendale, and Northeast Warren

5. Lansing

Lansing is the state capital of Michigan and is located in Ingham County. The city of Lansing, Michigan, is a beautiful place to live, work, and raise a family. The city has a diverse economy with a strong focus on education, healthcare, and manufacturing. The city is home to various businesses, including many large employers. Lansing is also home to several colleges and universities, making it a great place for students to study. The city has various parks and recreation facilities and many cultural and historical attractions. Lansing offers a variety of recreational opportunities, including hiking, biking, and camping. The city is home to historic houses and a collection of art treasures from the 1870s. The city is located within driving distance of several major metropolitan areas. Additionally, the city’s workforce is highly skilled and educated, making Lansing an attractive location for businesses. With so much to offer, it’s no wonder that Lansing is one of the most sought-after places to live and work in the country.

Upsides:

  • Low Cost of Living
  • Good Education
  • Proximity to big cities like Grand Rapids, Detroit

Downsides:

  • High Crime Rate
  • High Tax

Quick Facts:

  • Population – 117,000
  • Median Value of Home – $139,197
  • Median Rent – $990
  • Overall Cost of Living Compared to National Average 100 – 76.5
  • Employability Rate – 92.6
  • Crime Rate per 1000 residents – 47.22 (15.22 Violent and 32 Property)
  • Top employers are Michigan State University, Sparrow Health System, General Motors, Auto-Owners Insurance Group, McLaren Health, and Lansing Community College.

Best neighborhoods in Lansing:

Okemos, Haslett, and Williamston

CALCULATE MY MOVE

6. Kalamazoo

Kalamazoo, Michigan, is a beautiful city located in the state’s southwest. It is a beautiful city with plenty of green space, but it’s also a great place to live and work. The cost of living is reasonable, and there are plenty of job opportunities. Kalamazoo is also home to several colleges and universities, making it a great place for young people to start their careers. In addition, the city’s proximity to Lakes Michigan and Huron makes it a popular destination for tourists. Because the city is a center of activities in the arts and culture, there are numerous alternatives for enjoyment. Its cinemas, live music venues, museums, events, fantastic nightlife, top-notch restaurants, and bars are just a few of its attractions. The city holds Art Hop, a free event open to the public, on the first Friday of each month. As a result, Kalamazoo offers something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for an affordable place to live, a great place to work, or a beautiful city to visit, Kalamazoo is worth considering.

Upsides:

  • Low Cost of Living
  • Good Education
  • Diversity

Downsides:

  • High Crime Rate
  • High Poverty Rate
  • Cold Winters

Quick Facts:

  • Population – 76,019
  • Median Value Of Home – $207,423
  • Median Rent – $1,144
  • Overall Cost of Living Compared to National Average 100 – 79.2
  • Employability Rate – 95.7
  • Crime Rate per 1000 residents – 66.01 (15.01 Violent and 51.00 Property)
  • Stryker, Western Michigan University, and Borgess Medical Group are some of the best employers in the city.

Best neighborhoods in Kalamazoo:

Colony Farm, South Side, West Main Hill, Hill N’ Brook, and Oakland.

See Also: Best Moving Companies in Michigan

7. Flint

The city of Flint, Michigan, is known for its gritty beauty. From its vibrant downtown to its scenic riverfront, Flint has a unique charm that is increasingly being appreciated by visitors and residents alike. The hardscrabble city has been through a lot in recent years, but its residents have persevered. The city has a lot to offer.

But it’s not just Flint’s physical beauty that is gaining attention. The city is also becoming a great place to live and work. Its location and transportation infrastructure make it an ideal place to do business. As a result, Flint is an attractive option for people looking for affordable housing and good job prospects.

Upsides:

  • Low Cost of Living
  • Good Education

Downsides:

  • High Crime Rate
  • High Poverty Rate
  • Cold Winters

Quick Facts:

  • Population – 96,659
  • Median Value Of Home – $43,817
  • Median Rent – $777
  • Overall Cost of Living Compared to National Average 100 – 71.6
  • Employability Rate – 87.4
  • Crime Rate per 1000 residents – 33.21 (12.81 Violent and 20.39 Property)
  • Baker College, Diplomat Pharmacy, and Hurley Medical Center are the leading employers in the city.

Best Neighborhoods in Flint:

East Village, Carriage Town, and Central Park

CALCULATE MY MOVE

8. Sterling Heights

Sterling Heights is the fourth largest city in Michigan, with over 130,000 people. The city is home to a diverse population, with residents representing a variety of cultures and backgrounds. Sterling Heights offers a convenient lifestyle with various shopping, dining, and entertainment options. Sterling Heights is also known for its lush green spaces, beautiful parks, and scenic lakes. The city has a reputation for being family-friendly and is home to many corporate headquarters and manufacturing plants. The city’s location, amenities, and workforce make it an attractive place to live and work. The city has a highly educated workforce, and its location in the Detroit metropolitan area provides easy access to a variety of businesses and industries. The city’s residents are also highly educated, with nearly 60% of adults holding a bachelor’s degree or higher. Sterling Heights is consistently ranked as one of the best places to live in the United States. In 2019, the city was named the best place to live in Michigan by Money magazine and one of the top 10 best cities for families by Niche.com.

Upsides:

  • Low Cost of Living
  • Low Crime
  • Good Education

Downsides:

• Environmental Factors from Population Density

Quick Facts:

  • Population – 132,000
  • Median Value Of Home – $275,201
  • Median Rent – $1,104
  • Overall Cost of Living Compared to National Average 100 – 101.4
  • Employability Rate – 95.9
  • Crime Rate per 1000 residents – 10.29 (1.78 Violent and 8.52 Property)
  • KUKA Systems Corporation, US Farathane Corporation, and Milliken Millwork, Inc. are some of the top employers in the city.

Best Neighborhoods in Sterling Heights:

Huntington woods, Grosse Pointe park

9. Troy

Troy, Michigan, is a beautiful city. Troy is a city in south-eastern Michigan that offers a variety of attractions for residents and visitors. It is home to many businesses and industries. The city is also home to two major universities, Oakland University and Walsh College. Troy has a lot to offer employers. The city has a highly educated workforce, and it is home to many businesses and industries. Troy is also a very livable city, with a low cost of living and high quality of life. The city has excellent schools, parks, the beautiful Riverfront Park, and recreation facilities. The city’s parks system includes over 2,000 acres of parkland, including several nature preserve areas. Troy is also a major center for shopping and dining. The city’s downtown area is home to several high-end shops and restaurants. Troy is also a very safe city with a low crime rate. Employers looking for a beautiful, livable, and safe city will find that Troy is an excellent choice.

Upsides:

  • Low Cost of Living
  • Low Crime Rate
  • Good Education
  • Low Poverty Rate

Downsides:

  • Cold Winters

Quick Facts:

  • Population – 83989
  • Median Value Of Home – $412,154
  • Median Rent – $1,320
  • Overall Cost of Living Compared to National Average 100 – 114.5
  • Employability Rate – 97.1
  • Crime Rate per 1000 residents – 9.58 (1.05 Violent and 8.53 Property)
  • Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, Northeast Health Services, and Ace are some of the best employers in the city.

Best Neighborhoods in Troy:

Oak River, Beach Road, and Beach Forest

CALCULATE MY MOVE

10. Clinton Charter Township

Clinton Charter Township is located in the south-eastern portion of Michigan. The township is home to over 1,00,000 people and covers an area of 36 square miles. The township is adjacent to the cities of Ann Arbor and Detroit. Clinton Charter Township is a racially diverse community. The township has a strong educational system with a high school graduation rate of 89%. Clinton Charter Township is a beautiful community that offers residents a high quality of life. The township has numerous parks and recreation areas, and the Huron River runs through the township’s center. The township is also highly employed, with several businesses and organizations offering competitive salaries and benefits.

Clinton Charter Township offers easy access to the city’s many amenities while still providing a suburban feel. Clinton Charter Township is an excellent place to live, work, and raise a family with its many appealing features.

Upsides:

  • Low Cost of Living
  • Employment is High
  • Good Education
  • Low Poverty Rate

Downsides:

  • Cold Winters

Quick Facts:

  • Population – 101,000
  • Median Value Of Home – $227,852
  • Median Rent – $1,138
  • Overall Cost of Living Compared to National Average 100 – 97.9
  • Employability Rate – 95
  • Crime Rate per 1000 residents – 16.21 (4.07 Violent and 12.14 Property)
  • Tweddle Group, John Carlo, and Anderson cook are some of the top employers in the city.

CALCULATE MY MOVE

Conclusion

Each of these cities has its own unique attractions and features that make it an appealing place to live, work, and raise a family. Employers will find a highly educated workforce in each of these cities, as well as a number of businesses and industries. These cities also offer residents a high quality of life, with excellent schools, parks, and recreation facilities. Thanks for Reading!

Frequently Asked Questions:

What is the largest city in Michigan?

The largest city in Michigan is Detroit, with over 675,000 people.

What are the top 10 largest cities in Michigan?

The top 10 cities in Michigan, from largest to smallest, are Detroit, Grand Rapids, Warren, Sterling Heights, Lansing, Ann Arbor, Dearborn, Flint, Livonia, and Clinton Charter Township.

See Also: The Most Livable Cities In The US

What are the benefits of living in Michigan?

There are many benefits of living in Michigan, including a low cost of living, a high quality of life, and easy access to major metropolitan areas. Additionally, Michigan is a great place to raise a family.

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What are the downsides of living in Michigan?

Some of the downsides of living in Michigan include a high crime rate and a declining population growth. Additionally, the winters can be harsh, and the summers can be hot and humid. However, these downsides are offset by the many upsides of living in Michigan.

Written by


Alex Sherr is the founder of My Long Distance Movers, a blog that provides moving information and resources for people who are relocating. He has more than two decades of experience in the moving and relocation industry, and he is passionate about helping people relocate smoothly and efficiently. When he's not writing or blogging, Alex enjoys spending time with his wife and two young children.