Everyone is Moving Back To Michigan!

People Leaving Michigan Are COMING BACK! Michigan—home of the Great Lakes, incredible fall colors, and approximately 10 million potholes per square mile, I mean people oops. Yet, while some of us are holding on to this mitten-shaped wonder for dear life, others are packing up faster than you can say "pure Michigan." However, it’s no secret that Michigan has seen a significant outflow of residents in recent years. While many people leave for a variety of reasons, what’s equally interesting is that some of them find their way back to the state. What causes this back-and-forth migration? Let’s take a detailed look at why people leave Michigan—and why they return.

Michigan’s economy is a bit like an old car: it’s reliable sometimes, but you’re always a little nervous it’s about to break down (i’m kidding of course). While Detroit’s auto industry is revving back up, some people still leave for states with shinier opportunities. Tech hubs like Austin or San Francisco, or financial powerhouses like New York, can be hard to resist when you’re job hunting. Michigan’s job market has improved, but for many, it’s not moving fast enough.

Moving To Michigan

Michigan's Economy

One of the biggest reasons people leave Michigan is the economy.

Michigan’s economy has long been tied to the automotive industry. When Detroit was the hub of car manufacturing in the mid-20th century, Michigan flourished. But as the global economy shifted, automation increased, and manufacturing jobs were outsourced, Michigan took a significant economic hit. Thousands of well-paying jobs disappeared seemingly overnight. Although the state has made strides in diversifying its economy, some people still leave in search of better job opportunities in more economically stable states like Texas, Florida, or California, but that does not mean there are not opportunities in other industries. I know plenty of people that make a very good living outside of being a part of the big 3 automotive companies. Just to rattle off a few, there’s Dow Chemicals, Whirlpool, Lear, Stryker, Rocket companies, Kellogg, DTE, Ally financial, Borgwarner, Spartannash, Masco, and CMS energy, which are among the top fortune 500 companies in Michigan.

Moving To Michigan

Michigan Weather

Next we have the very very well known point that I have to dabble on a little bit of course because it’s a valid reason people are jumping ship and that’s the harsh winters. Ah, Michigan winters. Beautiful in Hallmark movies, but not so magical when your car door is frozen shut and your driveway looks like a ski slope. Some people just aren’t built for the cold—and after their fifth “polar vortex,” they’re ready to swap snow boots for flip-flops. States like Florida and Arizona know how to sweet-talk a Michigander with promises of 80-degree Januarys, until you’ve changed your shirt 16 times that day because you keep sweating through it. There’s pros and cons to it all and at the end of the day it’s all a preference, because I for one, love it. I have been playing hockey since I was a little kid and my life was inside of an ice rink, so the blood is well versed for the cold I think.

Moving To Michigan

Michigan Urban Challenges

The next reason people are leaving Michigan are the urban challenges and infrastructure issues. Urban areas like Detroit have faced significant challenges over the years. While the city has made incredible strides in revitalization, its history of economic decline, high crime rates, and population loss still looms large in the minds of many residents. Suburban sprawl and the flight of businesses and middle-class families to the suburbs left Detroit struggling to recover for decades. Despite recent improvements, some residents still view other cities as a more stable options. For some, the "comeback story" isn’t happening fast enough, so they’re moving to places that feel a little more put-together. And at the end of the day it’s just that, the comment about all of it not happening fast enough, but people oftentimes don’t realize how low Detroit actually was and took the time to compare it to where they are now. Is the city perfect? Definitely not, but the progress has been off the charts.

Moving To Michigan

Michigan Infrastructure

Michigan’s infrastructure issues also play a role. The state’s roads are notoriously bad, with potholes becoming a meme-worthy part of Michigan life, but I will say in the past couple months they have made significant improvements in this department, but it tends to be a double edged sword. From an Mlive article Michigan improved 16.2% of primary roads from 2021 to 2023, but 21.2% of roads declined during that period of time too, so despite those efforts, the roads are failing faster than they can be repaired. Of course we have the constant freezing and thawing for that, the road salt, but what a lot of people don’t talk about is, according to the National Highway Traffic Administration, Michigan has the highest gross truck weight allowance of 164,000 pounds which is 84,000 pounds heavier than the federal standard. The thought process here is that Michigan believes based on axle weight regulations that it results in less overall highway damage by allowing fewer but heavier trucks on the road, but at the same time these heavy trucks benefit our state's economy because they are transporting more goods and surfaces. Will changing this be the cure for all the road issues? Probably not, but it’s a step in the right direction. On top of that there’s also poor public transit systems in many areas that make car ownership a necessity, which can be expensive for some families. Residents who are frustrated with these daily inconveniences may find themselves drawn to states with better infrastructure and public transportation options.

Moving To Michigan

Michigan Retirement

The next known aspect that is a given of course is retirement and family conditions.

Another major driver of outbound migration is retirement. Michigan retirees often seek warmer climates where they can enjoy year-round outdoor activities like pickleball, tennis, and shuffle boards, shuffle boarding, idk. Florida and Arizona, for instance, are favorites for Michigan retirees looking to escape the snow. These states also often have lower property taxes and no state income tax, making them financially attractive.

Outside of retirement, family plays a significant role in people’s decisions to leave Michigan. Those with family members in other states often relocate to be closer to their loved ones. Whether it’s helping with aging parents or wanting to raise children near extended family, these deeply personal decisions frequently lead people to pack their bags and move.

Moving To Michigan

Michigan Property Taxes

The last point I want to talk about before switching gears to why people are coming back are the High taxes and cost of living. While Michigan has a lower cost of living than many states, some aspects of life here, such as property taxes and auto insurance rates, are higher than the national average. Michigan consistently ranks as one of the most expensive states for auto insurance, which can add a significant financial burden to households. States with lower overall costs, such as Tennessee or Texas, often lure people away with the promise of a more affordable lifestyle, but again there’s pros and cons.

So there’s quite a few reasons for people to run away from Michigan and although these points are considered, people still come back, why?

Moving To Michigan

Michigan Cost of Living

Despite the high taxes and the growing cost of living, Michigan does have an affordable cost of living in comparison to other states across the country. Rentcafe shows that Michigan’s housing is actually 13% lower than the national average, utilities are 2% lower, and goods and services are 3% lower and healthcare costs are sitting around that average mark. One of Michigan’s greatest strengths is its relatively low cost of living, especially when it comes to housing. In Michigan, you can buy a home for a fraction of what you’d pay in places like California or New York. This affordability is a major draw for people returning to the state, particularly families looking to settle down or young professionals hoping to buy their first home. People will argue that Michigan has a state income tax and their state doesn’t but there’s a lot more factors to consider than just that point alone, and it’s also fairly individualized. What about the state's cost of living? What about the housing costs? How does the cost of living compare, what’s your income and what are your spending habits. Do you have high income or a fixed lower income? And what would be your quality of life? It’s crucial to truly outline all those things before crossing it off.

Moving To Michigan

Michigan Community

Circling back to family. People leave for family but they also come back for it too, and outside of that aspect, people just find Michigan to have a one of a kind community. Michiganders are a tight-knit bunch. If you grew up here, chances are you’ve got family and friends who’ve known you since you were in diapers. Moving away might seem great at first, but soon enough, people start missing tailgates, summer BBQs, and family Euchre games (because no one outside Michigan knows what Euchre even is).

Michigan’s sense of community is unmatched. From local festivals to college sports rivalries, the state has a strong cultural identity that draws people back. Many former residents find that life in other states lacks the tight-knit communities they grew up with. Whether it’s the familiar faces, shared traditions, or just the comfort of being around people who “get” the Michigan way of life, this sense of belonging is a powerful motivator.

Families also play a big role in bringing people back to Michigan. Many people return to be closer to aging parents, siblings, or other relatives. For parents, Michigan offers a fantastic environment to raise children, with its abundance of outdoor activities, strong school districts, and safe suburban communities.

Moving To Michigan

Detroit Michigan Comeback

Despite the urban challenges that Michigan has faced over the years, specifically Detroit, the comeback story has been one of the most inspiring narratives in Michigan’s recent history. While the city once symbolized economic decline, it is now a vibrant hub of art, culture, and business innovation. Young professionals and entrepreneurs are drawn to Detroit for its affordable housing, burgeoning tech scene, and unique cultural opportunities. Similarly, cities like Grand Rapids, Ann Arbor, and Traverse City have become attractive destinations for those looking to enjoy Michigan’s urban lifestyle with a side of charm.

These revitalized cities are also drawing former residents who had left for job opportunities in other states. As Michigan continues to grow its economy and attract new businesses, people are returning to take advantage of these emerging opportunities.

Moving To Michigan

Michigan Recreation

One of the heavily underrated aspects that have people missing Michigan as their home, is the natural beauty and outdoor recreation. For many, nothing compares to the natural beauty of Michigan. The state boasts over 3,000 miles of freshwater shoreline, numerous national and state parks, and endless opportunities for outdoor activities. Whether it’s kayaking on Lake Michigan, hiking through Sleeping Bear Dunes, or enjoying a weekend getaway in the Upper Peninsula, Michigan’s great outdoors are a major draw.

For those who left for urban jungles or warmer climates, the unique serenity of Michigan’s landscapes often calls them back. There’s a reason people say, “You can take the Michigander out of Michigan, but you can’t take Michigan out of the Michigander.” I think someone said that somewhere, I don't know, it sounds good though.

Moving To Michigan

Michigan Education & Culture

We also can’t downplay the educational and cultural opportunities as well. Michigan is home to some of the country’s top educational institutions, including the University of Michigan, Michigan State University, and a host of other reputable colleges and universities. These schools not only attract students but also professionals and researchers who find job opportunities tied to academia.

Culturally, Michigan offers a rich tapestry of experiences, from the Motown Museum in Detroit to the ArtPrize festival in Grand Rapids. Many who move back to Michigan find that the state’s mix of history, arts, and music is hard to replicate elsewhere.

Moving To Michigan

Michigan Spirit

Last but not least, there’s the Michigan spirit. There’s the unexplainable magic of Michigan itself. Whether it’s the feeling of a crisp autumn morning with the smell of cider mills in the air, the roar of fans at a Michigan State vs. Michigan football game, or the simple joy of a Vernors ginger ale on a summer day, there’s something about Michigan that feels like home. It’s this intangible spirit that draws people back time and time again.

To put the bow on it all, Michigan is a state of contrasts. While economic challenges, harsh winters, and urban issues drive some people away, the state’s affordability, natural beauty, and revitalized cities lure many of them back. Add in the magnetic pull of family and community, and it’s clear that Michigan has a unique hold on its residents. Whether you’re staying, leaving, or coming back, one thing is certain: Michigan will always be here, waiting with open arms—and maybe a warm pasty or a glass of Faygo to welcome you home.

For those of you watching, what pulled you back to Michigan? And for those who left, why did you? Drop your thoughts in the comments below.

If you’re thinking about moving to Michigan in 1 day or a million, feel free to reach out anytime, I also have a link to the Living in Michigan newsletter below to give you insight on all things Michigan, so be sure to subscribe so you never miss out! Thanks for reading, until next time.

Cheers,

Andrew

Andrew McManamon is a Michigan REALTOR® with Signature Sotheby’s International Realty and provides real estate services to Buyers, Sellers and Investors throughout SE Michigan including Livingston County, Oakland County, Washtenaw County, Genesee County & beyond. Andrew has become one of the pillars of Michigan real estate. Prior to his real estate career Andrew was responsible for managing a senior living facility in Brighton, Michigan as a dining supervisor and an activities assistant. Andrew’s passion to help people is unlike any other, and he continues to strive to be the best resource he can be. Andrew graduated from Cleary University in Howell, Michigan with a double major in business and marketing, and currently resides in Brighton, Michigan.

Contact Andrew

Check Out the EXCLUSIVE "Living In Michigan" Apparel HERE