10 Best Michigan Towns For Retirees
Known as "The Great Lakes State," Michigan is a unique blend of vibrant cities and peaceful rural areas. Its northern regions are dotted with small towns and scenic landscapes, from lush forests to the sandy shores of the Great Lakes. The Upper Peninsula, in particular, is full of breathtaking natural beauty. If you're thinking about retirement and want a place with plenty of space to explore and enjoy the outdoors, Michigan could be a perfect fit. These 10 towns have a little bit of everything this beautiful state has to offer.
Marquette
Marquette is the largest city in the Upper Peninsula with a population of 20,639, and is known for its natural beauty. Marquette is an excellent place for retirees who want a low cost of living and affordable homes. A wonderful park to explore is Presque Isle Park, just north of the city, where everyone can enjoy a nice hike, fishing, and exquisite views of Lake Superior.
Marquette's downtown is also charming, with local restaurants and shops, like the Iron Bar Restaurant and Drinkery, with classic American pub food and an impressive list of beers on tap. The DeVos Art Museum is another amazing place to visit in the city. It sits on Northern Michigan University's campus, where visitors can discover artwork by students and faculty, as well as other artists from the area and across the country.
Traverse City
Traverse City, in Northern Michigan, is a wonderful place for retirees, thanks to the natural beauty around the area, its proximity to Grand Traverse Bay, a high quality of life, and affordable healthcare. At the East Arm of Grand Traverse Bay is the Traverse City State Park, where retirees, residents, and visitors can enjoy soaking up the sun from the small beach, camping on the campgrounds across from the beach, and exploring the forested park. A popular restaurant in downtown Traverse City is Taproot Cider House, with a globally-inspired menu and locally-crafted ciders in a casual setting.
One signifcant draw to Traverse City is the abundance of cherry trees. The "Cherry Capital of the World" hosts the National Cherry Festival. Along with honoring its celebrated harvest, there is a parade during the event, a pie-eating contest, and a classic car show. Traverse City welcomes retirees with open arms, with a nice, relaxed pace of life and endless natural and local amenities.
Petoskey
Just further north of Traverse City is Petoskey, a city in Northern Michigan with a population of 5,877. It is a great place for retirees because of its access to incredible natural scenery, a very relaxing downtown, and a low cost of living. A popular spot to meander in Petoskey is Bayfront Park, where locals and visitors have access to the City Marina and can check out the beloved Petoskey Clock Tower, as well as explore Little Traverse Bay.
Petoskey's town center has the Gaslight District, where Victorian architecture is preserved and old gaslights illuminate the street. The Symons General Store has been a local favourite for over 60 years. Here, you can pick up supplies for a gourmet picnic in nearby Pennsylvania Park. Just west of downtown is the Bay Harbor Golf Club, with 18 holes overlooking Little Traverse Bay. Petoskey may not be the largest city, but it is perfect for any retiree looking to downsize and enjoy the charming side of Michigan.
Cheboygan
Just before heading north to the Upper Peninsula, you'll find Cheboygan. The town offers a calming environment for retirees, thanks to its natural beauty, affordability, and strong community. The Cheboygan Crib Lighthouse and Cheboygan Riverfront Range Lighthouse are both iconic landmarks that make for a lovely stroll along the pier for excellent views of Lake Huron. Next to the lighthouse is the Cheboygan County Marina, for those with dreams of sailing off into the Michigan sunset.
Back on land, wander through the quaint downtown and pick up a bite to eat at Nourish on Main Street, which offers healthier options for those leading an active lifestyle on the go while exploring the community. Before or after a tasty snack, you can sign up for yoga classes at MOVEment Studio. Cheboygan also sits at the head of the Inland Waterway, which stretches over 40 miles and links three lakes and three rivers for maximum crusing.
Rochester
Just 20 miles north of Detroit lies Rochester, with a population of 13,035. Rochester is an excellent place for retirees, featuring a welcoming community, beautiful parks within the city limits, and great proximity to amenities. A must-visit spot is Meadow Brook Hall, a national landmark museum built by Matilda Dodge Wilson, the founder of Oakland University. Meadow Brook Hall hosts community events such as dinner and a movie, a summer concert series, and yoga in the garden.
Another relaxing destination is Rochester Municipal Park, where locals and visitors can play tennis on lighted courts, take a stroll along the well-groomed pathways, and even enjoy ice skating on the pond during the winter months. One unique feature of Rochester that sets it apart from other towns and cities on this list is the Paint Creek Trail, which was Michigan's first non-motorized converted rail trail in the state and is a convenient option for biking, running, hiking, and getting to know the area.
Saugatuck
Saugatuck is a small, peaceful town in the southwestern part of the state with a lively arts scene, abundance of outdoor activities, walkable downtown, and stunning location along Lake Michigan's coast. The Saugatuck Center for the Arts is a top destination for theater, live concerts, and community events. For a more natural backdrop, Oval Beach provides a calm and relaxing spot year-round. It was also named one of the 25 best shorelines in the world by Conde Nast Traveler and is recognized as one of the state's top beach towns. If visitors want to come during peak summer months, they should plan ahead due to its popularity.
Coral Gables on Water Street is the place to be, with a selections of bars and restaurants alongside a marina. There is live entertainment and no shortage of ways to enjoy the water, from boat rentals to sipping drinks in the cool breeze on a hot summer afternoon. Saugatuck also has a unique attraction: sand dune tours in an open-top vehicle perfect for riding and exploring the rugged coast.
Chelsea
Just west of Ann Arbor, the town of Chelsea blends small-town warmth with convenient access to city amenities and scenic outdoor spaces. One popular local destination is Pierce Lake Golf Course, an 18-hole course located just off I-94. For those who enjoy the outdoors, the nearby Sugar Loop offers a 3.6-mile trail that’s great for mountain biking, hiking, or simply walking the dog through wooded terrain.
Chelsea is also home to the Purple Rose Theatre Company, a nonprofit founded by actor Jeff Daniels in 1991, dedicated to producing original American plays for all to enjoy. Every summer, the town comes alive with its Sounds & Sights Festival. With its vibrant arts scene, walkable downtown, and easy access to nature, Chelsea is an appealing option for retirees—or anyone looking to slow down without giving up culture and connection.
Mackinaw City
Just 15.6 miles north of Cheboygan, near where Interstate 75 crosses the Mackinac Bridge to the Upper Peninsula, is Mackinaw City. With a population of 846, it’s a great spot for retirees, offering a strong sense of community, a variety of attractions, affordable living, and beautiful natural surroundings. Gary & Gussie Williams Memorial Park is a peaceful place to visit, featuring stunning views of the Mackinac Bridge, Lake Huron, and the nearby landscape.
Mackinaw City has a welcoming small-town atmosphere, with plenty of local restaurants and shops to explore. The Old Mackinac Point Lighthouse is a standout museum that offers additional views of the bridge and tells tales of its history dating back to 1889. Visitors can see the original lens, historical artifacts, and even hear the fog whistle in action. Another way to enjoy the area is by taking a ferry to Mackinac Island on Lake Huron. Sheplers provides round-trip service, as well as night sky and lighthouse cruises, and rides on their sister ship, Sip n' Sail, often at discounted rates.
Manistee
Manistee is a charming town situated between Lake Michigan and Manistee Lake. It’s a great choice for retirees thanks to its natural beauty, rich history, and affordable cost of living. Being right on Lake Michigan means residents and visitors can enjoy peaceful walks along the sandy shores of 1st Street Beach while taking in the views.
For dining, the Blue Fish Kitchen offers local specialties in an elegant setting, with a private elevator that provides stunning views from the second floor. Surrounded by both Lake Manistee and Lake Michigan, Seng’s Marina is a convenient downtown spot to prepare boats and explore the waters. The marina also features a well-equipped clubhouse and is easily accessible via the Manistee Riverwalk, for those looking for a scenic stroll.
Ludington
Located just south of Manistee, Ludington stands out as an excellent choice for retirees, thanks to its affordability, strong sense of community, access to endless outdoor activities, and variety of attractions and ammenities. With its proximity to Lake Michigan, Starns Park and Beach is a perfect spot to soak up the sun and explore the 2,500 feet of sandy shoreline.
A must-visit downtown is Table 14, a husband-and-wife-owned restaurant whose extensive menu features an entire section devoted to southern specialties, such as fried catfish. Throughout the year, Waterfront Park in downtown is a community hub, featuring a playground, scenic pathways lined with historic bronze sculptures, and an amphitheatre that hosts a summer concert series each year.
Each of these 10 Michigan towns offers endless activities for retirees, from exploring the beaches along Lake Michigan and Lake Huron to enjoying local restaurants and natural wonders. "The Great Lake State" consistently provides excitement in big cities like Detroit, Ann Arbor, Lansing, and Grand Rapids. Still, these charming communities offer a wealth of diverse and accessible options for retirees to enjoy, giving off a pleasant, relaxed small-town vibe to put your mind and body at ease.
