Grand Rapids
The second largest city in Michigan, Grand Rapids rests on the Grand River, about 30 miles east of Lake Michigan. Formerly known as the Furniture City, Grand Rapids is now nicknamed the River City as well as Beer City USA for its riverside locale and proximity to 40 craft breweries. Grand Rapids is also the hometown of former United States President Gerald Ford. Fans of the 38th president can learn more about his life and impact on American history at the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Museum. Notable as an artistic haven, Grand Rapids hosts the annual ArtPrize competition, a 19-day affair drawing hundreds of thousands of visitors to the city and featuring artwork all throughout Downtown Grand Rapids. Frederik Meijer Gardens exhibits an expansive variety of sculptures and gardens both indoors and outdoors. Meyer May House is revered as one of Frank Lloyd Wright’s architectural masterpieces. Located within an hour’s drive of Kalamazoo and Lansing, Grand Rapids is convenient to major highways and Gerald R. Ford International Airport, making for simple travels and commutes.
Traverse City
Traverse City, nestled along Grand Traverse Bay, combines small-town atmosphere with modern conveniences. The rental market offers diverse options, with average rents ranging from $1,276 for studios to $1,904 for three-bedroom homes, showing annual increases between 2-7.8%. Downtown's historic buildings feature apartments and condominiums, while established neighborhoods like Central, Old Towne, and Slabtown offer single-family rental homes and duplexes. The walkable downtown area features independent shops and restaurants, with easy access to entertainment and dining options. The city's location on Grand Traverse Bay provides year-round recreational opportunities, with the TART trail system connecting neighborhoods to parks and waterfront areas. Northwestern Michigan College and the Interlochen Center for the Arts contribute to the community's educational and cultural landscape. The National Cherry Festival, drawing approximately 500,000 visitors each summer, celebrates the region's agricultural heritage. Waterfront properties typically command higher rents, while inland locations provide more budget-friendly alternatives. The surrounding region's wine country, featuring numerous award-winning wineries, adds to the area's distinctive character. The rental market shows strong activity in the downtown and waterfront districts, where historic buildings have been renovated into contemporary living spaces.
Detroit
Historically one of the economic and cultural powerhouses of the Midwest, Detroit is full of people who are working towards redevelopment and revitalization. Known as the origin of the automobile industry, the Motor City is moving towards a future of economic opportunity with roots far beyond the world of cars. The cost of living is low while rental rates for apartments, condos, and houses are highly attractive for any budget. Monuments paying tribute to Detroit’s rich history are everywhere while astonishing architecture and public artwork is scattered throughout the city. As the birthplace of Motown, Detroit has a long tradition of producing legendary musicians like Diana Ross and Stevie Wonder. This tradition continues today and it’s easy to find live performances from every genre. The city is a great destination for sports lovers as one of the few American cities with major leagues in football, baseball, basketball, and hockey. With museums galore, lively nightlife, delectable restaurants, and conventions held almost every month of the year, Detroit is a mecca for entertainment. Visit the Motown Museum or catch a game at Comerica Park. Ask any local and they’ll tell you that Detroit is a great city and it’s not hard to see why. Detroit sits just across from Windsor, ON so residents of Detroit have easy access to this Canadian destination.
