Many people choose retirement in Michigan because of its opportunities to enjoy the great outdoors. More than half of the state remains forested, and the state cradles
more than 11,000 lakes, Livability noted. Those drawn to hunting, fishing, and hiking will never run out of new turf to explore.
Choose a location based on lifestyle and budget, and retirement in Michigan can include affordability, activity, and great friends.
Here are four popular spots in Michigan to retire.
Free Retirement Calculator: When Can You Retire? — Click Here to Find Out
1. Saugatuck
If you’re looking for an intimate town with friendly, bohemian neighbors, think about Saugatuck. The charm of this little town is its artists’ colony. Many of Saugatuck’s residents make their living painting, writing, or creating beautiful music, and you can join in the fun. Saugatuck sits on edge of Lake Michigan and the Kalamazoo River, with breathtaking scenery to inspire budding artists. The town has a permanent vacation feel, with galleries, eateries, and boutiques abounding.
2. Ann Arbor
Ann Arbor shares its famous college-town atmosphere with newcomers and retirees. This is the place for attending sporting events, taking classes, and finding top-notch
medical care, U.S. News & World Report noted. Seniors benefit from special programs for free bus service—and many taxi drivers discount their rates to passengers older than 60—and those reduced fares will come in handy, because Ann Arbor offers so much to do. Many of the activities are tied to the University of Michigan, which is located in this city. Student performances of plays and musicals, symphonic concerts and art shows provide professional quality entertainment at a bargain price. Social events include educational and philanthropic endeavors—and the sports programs are the heartbeat of the Wolverine spirit. Enjoy top-rated football, basketball, and other NCAA Division I sports.
3. Traverse City
Traverse City attracts people who appreciate the beauty of the outdoors. Weekend athletes enjoy a variety of leisure sports year-round. Boating, cycling, hiking, and skiing draw active retirees to this spot that keeps them involved in their passions. The area is very affordable, and The Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore is considered one of America’s most
beautiful places, MarketWatch noted. Retirees may also enjoy a trip through the area’s wineries, or a picking party at a local orchard. Great restaurants, quaint art galleries and superb healthcare facilities complete the picture.
VOTE NOW: Is Michigan Gov. Rick Snyder Doing a Good Job?
4. Detroit
Although the automotive industry in Detroit is past its heyday, vehicles are still produced in big numbers, and people like living near the city to enjoy the entertainment and atmosphere. The Detroit metropolitan area includes a variety of neighborhoods with distinct personalities. Properties in the city can be very affordable, but the older houses may be in need of repair. Suburbs, such as Grosse Pointe, Bloomfield Hills and Indian Village, can be pricey but they offer quick access to Detroit’s many amenities.
© 2026 Newsmax. All rights reserved.