The state of Michigan represented itself remarkably in the U.S. News, which ranked it as one of the best places in the United States to retire.
U.S. News went out and asked 3,500 seniors, either retired or about to retire, what their needs are every year. And Michigan put six cities in the top 100, and while Florida might have fared better, the northern climes are actually scoring particularly well.
Pennsylvania has five cities on the list: Harrisburg, Reading, Lancaster, Scranton, and Allentown.
Those cities scored well with the kinds of things 57-year-old Livonia cycling enthusiast Dan Foster told Local 4 he needs in retirement.
“I have somewhat limited resources, so I can’t live in an expensive area,” said Foster. “Near nature like bike paths, hiking trails. I do like an urban area. Detroit is fun to ride a bike in, and it wouldn’t be too bad around here.”
Ann Arbor came in at No. 11. U.S. News’ Beverly Harzog says the popular college town really fits the bill.
“Ann Arbor is a fairly affordable place to live, plus excellent healthcare is nearby, and that was also very important for the majority this year,” said Harzog.
But there are a lot of other things retirees want, like low crime, and high quality of life.
“Ann Arbor offers, you know, a good job market for retirees, so that’s one thing that attracts them,” Harzog said. “And in spite of it being cold too, you know there are a lot of outdoor activities, and retirees like to stay active.”
Grand Rapids (38), Lansing (53), Detroit (65), and Kalamazoo (66) made it into the top 75.
“Some of these areas are nice to live in because our temperatures are moderate here,” Foster said. “You know we don’t have to worry about that like they do down south with the weather and hurricanes so much. I’m not surprised at all.”
The U.S. Census says Lansing is the fastest growing city in Michigan, and it’s likely its proximity to Michigan State University and active outdoor life make it an attractive spot for those of all ages.
