Why Are So Many People Moving to Michigan Right Now?
If you’ve been watching the headlines, you may have noticed something surprising: Michigan is growing again. After decades of slow or even negative growth, the Great Lakes State is back on people’s radar as a place to live, work, and raise a family. So what’s behind the shift? Here’s why so many people are moving to Michigan right now.
Michigan’s Population Is Rising Again
For the first time in years, Michigan’s population is trending upward. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, the state gained more than 57,000 new residents between 2023 and 2024, reaching just over 10.1 million people, a record high.
Detroit, once the poster child for population loss, is even making a comeback. In 2024, the city grew by more than 6,700 new residents, the largest gain of any city in the state.
Detroit’s population is on the rise. Photo: Alex Brisbey
Why People Are Choosing To Move To Michigan
1. Affordable Housing and Cost of Living
Compared to many other states, Michigan is still an affordable place to buy a home. The median home price here sits well below national averages and far below markets on the coasts. For families and first-time buyers priced out of big cities, Michigan offers more space and value for the money.
2. Jobs and Economic Opportunity
Michigan is still the automotive capital of the world, but today’s economy goes far beyond cars. The state has growing industries in healthcare, advanced manufacturing, logistics, agriculture, and tech. Companies are hiring, and immigrants and transplants alike are filling those roles.
3. Remote Work Freedom
Since the pandemic, remote work has changed how people think about where they live. Many workers no longer need to be tied to expensive hubs like New York or San Francisco. Michigan is becoming attractive to remote workers who want affordable housing, good schools, and access to nature without giving up career opportunities.
4. Outdoor Lifestyle & Natural Beauty
Michigan is home to more freshwater shoreline than any other state in the country. Add in national forests, trails, and four distinct seasons, and it’s no surprise people want to live where they can hike, ski, boat, or simply relax by a lake on the weekend.
5. Welcoming Newcomers
Immigration has been one of the biggest drivers of Michigan’s growth. From 2023 to 2024, more than 67,000 new residents moved to Michigan from outside the U.S. Immigrant communities bring new talent, culture, and energy to cities and towns across the state.
6. Statewide Recruitment Efforts
Michigan isn’t leaving growth up to chance. The state recently launched a $20 million “You Can in Michigan” campaign to attract and retain young talent, with a focus on showing the lifestyle and career opportunities available here.
What This Means for Michigan’s Future
Michigan still has challenges, like an aging population and competition from other states, but momentum is building. More people are discovering the state’s affordable cost of living, natural beauty, and economic opportunity, and communities from Detroit to small rural towns are beginning to feel the benefits.
