Apartments for Rent in Michigan

Michigan

Known for years as the leading state for auto manufacturing, today's Michigan has diversified since the 1950's. Although Detroit, Pontiac and Lansing, Michigan all still contribute heavily to the economy because of such powerhouses as Ford and Chrysler, the state's economy has branched out.

Machinery, metal fabrication and chemicals are steadily growing in importance. In fact, Michigan is currently ranked fourth in the nation for high-tech manufacturing. Timber and fishing are also important; not surprising, since the state has over three thousand miles of shoreline and over one thousand inland lakes.

Major companies that are headquartered in Michigan (besides auto manufacturers) include Amway, Kellogg's and Google. The rise in high tech companies and Internet firms has directly contributed to an increase in the availability of apartments in Michigan as real estate investors scramble to meet the need.

Tourism is also significant to the Michigan's economic stability, with a mix of visitors who either enjoy the natural beauty or are visiting to take advantage of the Motown culture and great casino gambling.

Outdoor Attractions

Four national parks protect dense forests and numerous inland lakes in Michigan, but the most impressive waterfronts are those of Lakes Erie, Superior, Michigan and Huron. Michigan is bordered by four of the U.S.'s five Great Lakes, and tourism increases every year. The state has the longest fresh water shoreline in the world, so boating, sailing and fishing are hugely popular. In the spring and summer the beaches are filled with visitors.

The many rivers and inland lake provide unparalleled opportunities for canoeing and kayaking trips that vary from calm float trips to rough rapids. One of the gems of the region is Mackinac Island, which is a completely self-contained Victorian island that doesn't allow any motorized vehicles even today. Occasionally visitors can rent an apartment on Mackinac, but the few year-round residents have been there for generations.

Colleges and Universities

Michigan State University is a prestigious research facility in the mid-west, and the University of Michigan's three campuses provide bachelor’s through graduate level courses along with over forty other colleges and universities in the state. Many students appreciate the mix of seasons, closeness to ski resorts and the proximity to Detroit's many Motown clubs.

Real Estate and Housing

Apartments in Michigan are generally reasonably priced and slightly lower than the national average, which makes renting here quite attractive. You can find some particularly good apartments for rent in Grand Rapids (recently named one of the best towns in America for families), Kalamazoo and Lansing. In the past, Detroit apartments have been a bit steeper, but the leveling out of the population there has brought housing costs down a bit. Keep in mind that utilities will be a bit higher here because of the cold winters, but overall the cost of living is still lower, so if you're thinking of living in a Michigan apartment you should be pleased with what you get for your money.