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Living in Michigan: Cost of Living, Healthcare and What to Know About Living in Michigan | Expat Exchange
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Living in Michigan

By Joshua Wood, LPC

Last updated on Feb 21, 2023

Summary: People often describe life in Michigan as a great place to live, work, and raise a family. People love the four distinct seasons, the abundance of outdoor activities, the friendly people, and the great food. The cost of living in Michigan is slightly below the national average, with the median home price being around $150,000. The approximate population of Michigan is 9.9 million, and the largest cities are Detroit, Grand Rapids, Warren, Sterling Heights, and Ann Arbor. The cons of living in Michigan include the cold winters, the high auto insurance rates, and the lack of job opportunities in some areas. Additionally, the cost of living in some areas can be quite high, especially in the larger cities.

Is the cost of living in Michigan high?

We asked people about the cost of living in Michigan, they wrote:

"The cost of living in Michigan is generally lower than the national average. Prices for living expenses such as rent, utilities, and food are typically much lower than the US average. A 1 bedroom apartment in the state of Michigan can be rented for an average of around $1100 USD per month, while renting a 2 bedroom apartment typically falls around the $1300-1400 USD range per month. The cost of dinner at a moderately priced restaurant is typically around $15-20 USD in Michigan," remarked one expat living in Michigan.

What type of recreational facilities are in Michigan?

When we asked people living in Michigan about recreational activities, they mentioned:

"Residents of Michigan enjoy a variety of recreational facilities, including parks, beaches, trails, and golf courses. There are also many lakes and rivers in Michigan, providing opportunities for fishing, boating, and swimming. For those who enjoy outdoor activities, Michigan has many hiking and biking trails, as well as camping sites. For those who prefer indoor activities, there are bowling alleys, movie theaters, and arcades. Michigan also has a variety of museums, art galleries, and theaters for those who enjoy cultural activities," mentioned one expat inMichigan.

What is the weather like in Michigan?

"The weather in Michigan can vary greatly depending on the season. In the summer, temperatures can reach into the 80s and 90s with high humidity. In the winter, temperatures can drop below freezing and snowfall is common. Spring and fall are generally mild with temperatures ranging from the 40s to the 70s," said an expat in Michigan.

Are there good restaurants in Michigan?

"One of the most popular restaurants in Michigan is Slows Bar BQ in Detroit. Slows Bar BQ is known for its slow-cooked, smoked meats and its unique take on classic southern dishes. The restaurant also offers a wide selection of craft beers and cocktails. https://www.slowsbarbq.com/ Another popular restaurant in Michigan is Zingerman's Deli in Ann Arbor. Zingerman's is a classic deli that serves up a variety of sandwiches, salads, and sides. The restaurant is also known for its selection of artisanal cheeses, cured meats, and other specialty items. https://www.zingermansdeli.com/ The Grand Rapids Brewing Company is a popular spot for craft beer lovers in Michigan. The restaurant offers a wide selection of craft beers, as well as a menu of pub-style food. The restaurant also has a rooftop patio with views of the Grand River. https://grbrewingcompany.com/," wrote one expat living in Michigan.

Where will I buy groceries and do other shopping in Michigan?

"People living in Michigan typically buy groceries at supermarkets, such as Meijer, Kroger, and Walmart. Other shopping can be done at department stores, such as Macy's, JCPenney, and Target, as well as at local boutiques and specialty stores. Additionally, many people in Michigan take advantage of online shopping options, such as Amazon, eBay, and Etsy," mentioned one expat inMichigan.

What are the visa & residency requirements in Michigan?

"In order to obtain a visa in Michigan, foreign nationals must first file an application for permanent or temporary residence. Applications must include all necessary evidence and supporting documents, such as passport photos, police verification documents, birth certificates, and proof of financial resources. Once the application is approved, a visa to the United States is issued. This allows the applicant to legally enter and reside in the United States for a period of time. The process of applying for residency in Michigan is similar to that of obtaining a visa. First, an application is required, along with supporting documents and evidence. Applicants must provide proof of record of work in the state, proof of income, and an affidavit of support. Once an application is submitted and approved, the applicant will receive a permanent residence card, or "green card", which grants them legal status as a United States resident," mentioned an expat living in Michigan.

Are healthcare and health insurance expensive in Michigan?

"Healthcare and health insurance in Michigan can be expensive. The cost of health insurance premiums in Michigan is higher than the national average, and the cost of healthcare services can also be high. Additionally, Michigan has some of the highest out-of-pocket costs for healthcare services in the country. These costs can be difficult for many people to afford, especially those who are uninsured or underinsured," remarked one expat in Michigan.

About the Author

Joshua Wood Joshua Wood, LPC joined Expat Exchange in 2000 and serves as one of its Co-Presidents. He is also one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. Prior to Expat Exchange, Joshua worked for NBC Cable (MSNBC and CNBC Primetime). Joshua has a BA from Syracuse and a Master's in Clinical and Counseling Psychology from Fairleigh Dickinson University. Mr. Wood is also a licensed counselor and psychotherapist.

Some of Joshua's articles include Pros and Cons of Living in Portugal, 10 Best Places to Live in Ireland and Pros and Cons of Living in Uruguay. Connect with Joshua on LinkedIn.

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