If you’re thinking about relocating to Michigan — or even just to the east side of Metro Detroit — you’re not alone. Families from across the country are discovering that Michigan offers something rare: a high quality of life without the high cost of living.
But as with any move, there are surprises — both the good kind and the “wish I’d known that” kind. Let’s unpack a few of the hidden costs and perks of making Michigan (and especially Grosse Pointe) your new home.
The Hidden Costs
1. Property Taxes Can Vary… A Lot
Michigan property taxes are based on what’s called the “State Equalized Value” (SEV), which resets when you buy a home. That means if you’re purchasing a property that’s been owned for decades, your new tax bill could jump significantly from what the previous owner paid.
Still, when compared to national averages, Michigan’s effective tax rate is middle-of-the-pack — and you’ll often get much more house for your money.
2. Heating Bills and Weather Costs
Our winters are beautiful — snow-dusted trees, cozy coffee shops, sledding hills — but they do come with heating costs. Many older homes in the Grosse Pointes rely on gas or boiler systems, which can cost more to operate if they haven’t been updated.
Pro tip: Before you buy, have your inspector check furnace age and insulation levels. The good news? You’ll spend far less on cooling in summer than in southern states.
3. Car Insurance is Pricier Than You’d Expect
Michigan is famous (or infamous) for its no-fault auto insurance system, which includes unique coverage requirements. Rates have come down in recent years, but they still tend to run higher than in neighboring states.
Tip: Shop insurance quotes after you choose your neighborhood — rates can vary by ZIP code.
4. Home Maintenance for Historic Charm
Michigan’s older neighborhoods — especially in Grosse Pointe, Birmingham, and Royal Oak — are filled with early- to mid-century homes. They have stunning craftsmanship, but with that comes upkeep: older roofs, lead lines, plaster walls, and classic windows that aren’t always energy-efficient.
The Hidden Perks
1. Affordable Housing and Big Value
Even with taxes and utilities factored in, Michigan remains one of the most affordable states for homeownership — particularly in well-kept lakefront communities like Grosse Pointe. You can often buy a beautiful family home for what a small condo might cost in Chicago or the coasts.
2. The Great Lakes Lifestyle
You can’t put a price tag on lake access — and in Michigan, you’re never far from one. Grosse Pointe sits right along Lake St. Clair, where residents spend summer days boating, kayaking, paddleboarding, or simply taking in those jaw-dropping sunsets over the water.
But it’s not just about one shoreline. Michigan is home to more than 11,000 inland lakes and the longest freshwater coastline in the United States — meaning weekend getaways are built right into our geography. Whether it’s the sandy beaches of Lake Michigan’s west coast, the charm of Traverse City and Petoskey, or the adventure of crossing the Mackinac Bridge into the Upper Peninsula, every direction offers a new kind of paradise.
A Michigan summer is truly unlike any other — ice-cream stands, beach towns, and evenings that stretch past 9 p.m. — but what makes this state special is that it’s beautiful year-round. Fall colors, cozy winter escapes, and spring blooms mean there’s always something to explore. And in Grosse Pointe, you get the best of both worlds: the tranquility of lakeside living and quick access to everything Metro Detroit offers.
3. Top-Rated Schools and Community Feel
Public schools in Grosse Pointe consistently rank among Michigan’s best. Families relocating here often talk about the small-town warmth — neighbors who wave, kids riding bikes, parents gathering for school events — all while being only twenty minutes from downtown Detroit.
4. Lower Overall Cost of Living
Groceries, entertainment, childcare, and dining all come in below national averages in Michigan’s metro areas. Even with higher property taxes or car insurance, families often find their monthly bottom line is dramatically lower here.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How does the cost of living compare to other states?
Michigan’s overall cost of living is about 10–15% lower than the national average. Housing and groceries are less expensive, but property taxes and car insurance can offset a small portion of those savings.
Q: What are the best areas around Detroit for relocation?
Grosse Pointe, Birmingham, Rochester, and Plymouth are favorites among families (among many others… lets chat!) — each offering distinct character, walkable downtowns, and strong schools.
Q: Are there incentives for people relocating to Michigan?
Some employers offer relocation or housing stipends, and first-time homebuyer programs through MI Home Loan can help with down payments or closing costs.
Charlene’s Take
After living in several states myself before moving back home to Michigan, I can say this: it’s the mix of community, comfort, and character that makes people stay. You can find a gorgeous home, great schools, and a slower pace of life — all without giving up access to culture, sports, or a good coffee shop on every corner.
If you’re exploring a move to the Detroit area or wondering whether Michigan fits your next chapter, I’d love to help you see what life here can look like.
