7 Budget-Friendly Towns in Michigan for Retirees
A preferred destination for retirees is down south. It is understandable, considering that part of the United States tends to enjoy plenty of sun and offers a lovely array of outdoor activities with its bountiful natural beauty. Fortunately, the Great Lakes State is home to several towns that provide an excellent mix of affordability, amenities, and natural beauty. From serene lakeside communities like Houghton to vibrant cultural hubs, including Norway, these towns offer retirees a chance to enjoy their golden years without financial strain.
There are many towns in Michigan that are tailor-made for senior citizens and retirees. These towns are not only ideal places to retire due to their safety, friendly community, and hospitable weather, but they are also relatively budget-friendly compared to other Michigan towns. Without further ado, disvover seven budget-friendly towns in Michigan.
Escanaba
With median home listing prices at $199,400 (according to realtor.com), Escanaba is a noteworthy option to settle in with its relatively small-town pace, quiet location, and affordability. Access to quality healthcare is paramount for retirees, and Escanaba excels in this area. OSF St Francis Hospital & Medical Group provides comprehensive medical services, including specialized care for seniors. Additionally, several assisted living facilities, such as LakeHouse Escanaba, deliver various levels of care to meet the needs of retirees.
Escanaba's warm and welcoming community is one of its standout features. The Catherine Bonifas Civic Center has numerous activities and programs for seniors, including fitness classes, craft workshops, and social gatherings. When it comes to outdoor recreation, there are multiple options for retirees. The sprawling 120-acre waterfront park Ludington Park boasts beautiful lake views, walking trails, and picnic areas. It is an ideal spot for morning walks or leisurely afternoons. Meanwhile, Escanaba Country Club presents an excellent opportunity to enjoy a round of golf with friends. Additionally, the William Bonifas Fine Arts Center hosts many cultural events, including art exhibits, music performances, and workshops, fostering a vibrant cultural scene.
Houghton
Michigan's picturesque Upper Peninsula is home to Houghton which promises a fulfilling retirement experience. The town is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. The Keweenaw Peninsula's 41-mile Bill Nicholls Trail is the best for retirees to keep active. While the Rozsa Center for the Performing Arts delivers events like theater performances, concerts, and art exhibits, ensuring there is always something exciting happening in town.
Houghton’s warm and welcoming community is one of its standout features. The Portage Lake District Library hosts book clubs, lectures, and social gatherings, providing excellent opportunities for retirees to connect with others and engage in intellectual pursuits. The nearby UP Health System - Portage is the contact point for medical requirements. The town's median home listing price is $250,000, giving retirees affordable housing options in a beautiful setting.
Menominee
Another waterfront town, Menominee, is ideal for retirees looking to spend their golden years basking in Green Bay. The 50 acres of John Henes Park have everything from wooded trails to swimming areas to fishing sites, providing retirees with an ideal place to spend casual evenings. New residents should also consider a trip to the Menominee Heritage Museum to learn how the town flourished in its lumbering and maritime heritage.
Menominee also had ample senior-catered activities like tai chi, chair yoga, crafts, and even a blood pressure and glucose clinic at Menominee Senior Center. When it comes to health, Aurora Health Center delivers excellent care and facilities in the region. Harbors Retirement Community is the place for retirees who wish to live among fellows, and for those looking to buy a home, the median listing price is $189,900.
White Cloud
Under two hours from Lansing and Newaygo County's seat, White Cloud, is for the likes of those who enjoy peace and a close-knit community. The local Senior Center, Newaygo County Commission on Aging, is a hub of activity, offering a variety of programs and events tailored to retirees. From senior meal programs to recreation trips, there is always something happening. The White Cloud Farmers Market is another excellent spot for socializing while enjoying fresh harvest.
White Cloud ensures that retirees have access to quality healthcare with Family Health Care - White Cloud and Newaygo County Mental Health being the top options in the town. Median home listing prices are also affordable, at around $220,000.
Gladstone
A quiet and dainty town that feels as if it is running at its own pace, Gladstone is a nice place for retirees with its nearby beach and nature-centric atmosphere. Those who want to soak up the sun can do so at Van Cleve Park and Gladstone Beach. Visitors will have a great view of Lake Michigan while strolling around the shore or through the beginner-friendly hiking trails. Additionally, there is the Gladstone Public Library, which holds a vast collection of books and other resources.
In regards to medical facilities, retirees can choose between the Gladstone VA Clinic and OSF HealthCare - Medical Group (Primary Care). Being a homeowner is not a distant dream in this town as the median home listing price sits at $175,000 (as of 2024). Also make a note of Lakeview Assisted Living, which is the leading assisted living community in the area.
Tawas City
An under 2,000 population, welcoming community, rich local culture, and recreational opportunities make Tawas City perfect for retirees with an active lifestyle. The Tawas Point State Park is a major attraction, boasting sandy beaches, hiking trails, and the historic Tawas Point Lighthouse. Retirees can enjoy birdwatching, picnicking, and fishing in this serene 183-acre environment. The Tawas Bay Art Gallery is a hub for local artists and hosts rotating exhibits, workshops, and art classes. Additionally, the Tawas Community Concert Band and Tawas Bay Players, the local theater groups, frequently perform, giving retirees a chance to enjoy live music and theater.
Ascension St Joseph Hospital is the local medical facility to reach out to when in need, and more critical cases can be referred to places in Detroit, which is just three hours away. Furthermore, the Tawas Village facility promises good care and affordability for those who need assistance. Tawas City is another budget-friendly option, with median home listing prices around $216,500.
Norway
Norway, a town that has a relatively rich history, is a pleasant place for retirees looking to permanently exit the proverbial rat race and simply enjoy the little things in life. Those who wish to know the roots of this town can visit the Jake Menghini Historical Museum, which dives into the history and Finnish culture of Norway, Michigan, along with an exhibit of various artifacts and equipment from when the town’s primary economy revolved around logging. Meanwhile, community events like the annual Leif Erikson Fall Festival celebrate the town’s heritage and bring residents together for Viking parades, live music, and Swedish cuisine.
Marshfield Medical Center-Dickinson Norway Center-Family Medicine is where retirees can go for all medical assistance needs. Simultaneously, assisted living facilities such as Evergreen Meadows deliver additional support and care, ensuring that retirees have access to the services they require. With a mere $122,400 as the median home listing price, Norway is surely one of the best retirement places in Michigan.
Finding the best town in Michigan to settle in for retirees will be subjective. These towns are among the finest places that offer a low cost of living, safety, healthcare, and a lovely environment, ideal for those who are looking to simply relax and cast their worries away. These quaint and rustic towns are all special in their way, such as Escanaba, which appears designed for senior citizens in particular. Norway has a unique blend of American and Finnish culture, which gives it a vastly different ambiance. At the end of the day, the decision will rest solely on you as to which of these towns feels closest to your heart.
