Advocacy News – Feb. 22, 2024
Michigan has two cities ranking in the top 20 on the latest U.S. News & World Report’s “Best Places to Live in the U.S.”
Why it matters: The news outlet analyzed the 150 most populous metro areas to find the best places to live. To make the top of the list, a place had to have good value, be a desirable place to live, have a strong job market, and a high quality of life. We loved seeing see two Michigan cities spotlighted the top 20 list: Ann Arbor (14th) and Grand Rapids (20th).
What they’re saying:
- “Ann Arbor is a city of contrasts. It is at once rural and urban, sporty and smart, outdoorsy and high-tech, counterculture and high society. It is best known as the home of the University of Michigan, and locals here enjoy all the trappings of a stereotypical Midwestern college town: a charming, historic main street lined with bookstores, gift shops and taverns; a healthy mix of longtime residents and shorter-term passers-through; and plentiful cultural destinations and events. At the same time, its proximity to reenergized Detroit, fast-growing startup scene, international community, spirit of inclusivity and high walkability give ‘Tree Town’ a feel not unlike that of a much larger city. Aside from the university, excellent public schools, an increasingly diverse job market, a robust public parks system and low crime rates make Ann Arbor an attractive place to live for locals of all ages.”
- “Grand Rapids has an affinity for public art, and its craft brewery scene is one of the best in the nation. A scenic spot perched on the Grand River – Michigan’s longest waterway – Grand Rapids has evolved from its 19th-century roots as a hub of furniture production to the modern-day metro area that is attracting college students and young families with its healthy job market, affordable housing and outdoor recreational activities. From the doctors and nurses working in the region’s booming health care industry to the strong LGBTQ community that hosts the much-feted annual Grand Rapids Pride event to the numerous artists and musicians, the region is home to people from all walks of life. Grand Rapids’ neighborhood associations are incredibly active, bringing the metro area’s population together for community events such as the Eastown Street Fair, which draws people to the artsy neighborhood for food, music and more. Midwest friendliness is no exaggeration in Grand Rapids, which, despite being the second-largest metro area in Michigan, exudes small-town warmth. Walk down almost any residential street in Grand Rapids, and you’ll often be met with a wave and a ‘hello’ from people caring for their lawns or hanging out on porches.”
Read more: Check out the full U.S. News & World Report list HERE.