Michigan has established itself as a significant contender in the tech industry, ranking sixth in the country for states with new tech businesses according to CompTIA’s report. The state’s thriving technology ecosystem and major employers in the mobility, advanced manufacturing, and healthcare industries make Michigan an attractive place for many skilled workers to live.
With many workers experiencing burnout, particularly in fast-paced industries like tech, finding a healthy work-life balance is critical – and Michigan offers the best of both worlds.
Beyond the state’s affordable cost of living and shorter commute time than the national average, Michigan’s four seasons of outdoor adventure, vibrant arts scene, and world-class dining are just a few of the recreational options available to the state’s workforce after they leave the office (or log off). And for many, these activities are right at their doorstep.
Here are just some of the reasons tech workers who want a better work-life balance should consider living and working in Michigan.
Abundant Nature
In some cities and states, nature is an hours-long drive away or confined to one area. Not in Michigan. The aptly named Great Lakes State is bordered by four Great Lakes and has 11,000 inland lakes, more freshwater shoreline than any other state, and 3,000 miles of water trails. 
Image credit: Michigan Economic Development Corporation
The state takes the outdoors seriously. In 2019, Michigan opened its Office of Outdoor Recreation Industry to elevate outdoor recreation business opportunities and resources across the state. It is one of only 22 states to have this office as of 2023.
For residents, there is never a shortage of natural landscapes to explore. Whether it’s a trail run before or after work, a rejuvenating lunchtime stroll, or a long weekend camping, you’ll see Michiganders outside enjoying all that nature has to offer.
Not only do Michiganders take advantage of natural spaces throughout the week, but you’ll also see them outdoors regardless of the season. In fact, Michigan’s overall outdoor recreation participation rate is 95%. Whether it’s boating on one of the many lakes in the summer, hiking through the state’s fall foliage, sledding or skiing in the winter, or enjoying the first signs of spring on one of the 3,500 bike trails, Michigan offers residents the full range of seasonal sports and outdoor activities. Combine that with discretionary income thanks to the state’s low cost of living and the culture of celebrating the outdoors, and Michiganders new and old can find that coveted work-life balance.
Inclusive, Diverse Communities
Communities that cultivate a sense of belonging are crucial for many seeking a healthy work-life balance. Michigan is rich in diversity, allowing residents with different identities to find their community. Immigrants make up almost 7% of the state’s population and hail from India, Mexico, Iraq, and Canada, to name a few. Michigan has immigrants living in every county, but Grand Rapids and Detroit rank highly for their diverse neighborhoods.
Cities like Ann Arbor, Ferndale, and Saugatuck have a rich history of supporting the LGBTQIA+ community. Saugatuck is home to one of the largest LGBTQ resorts in the country. Ferndale hosts the largest free-to-the-public LGBTQAI+ Pride celebration each May, and Ann Arbor held one of the first designated Gay Pride weeks in the country. There are a variety of Pride celebrations across the state, with new ones popping up every year. 
Image credit: Ann Arbor Pride Facebook
The state celebrates its Black history in February for Black History Month through exhibits and events, and year-round. Detroit is home to the Motown Museum, the Charles H. Wright Museum of African American History, and The Henry Ford Museum of American Innovation, where the bus Rosa Parks rode is on display. The city was designated the first authenticated African American Heritage Destination in the world by the Travel Professionals of Color.
Michigan also celebrates Hispanic Heritage Month — events are held state-wide, like Lansing’s 517 Hispanic Heritage Weekend and Detroit Institute of Arts’ ¡Hola Cine!, a Spanish-language movie day for kids — and Asian American Pacific Islander Month, with festivities like the 8th annual Grand Rapids Asian-Pacific Festival and AsianFest Michigan that celebrates music, fashion, and food.
Regardless of identity or culture, Michigan is likely to have a community where someone can belong and feel at home.
Family-Friendly Environment
For current or prospective residents who have, or plan to have, children, Michigan has policies and programs that foster a family-friendly environment. Michigan’s Tri-share child care program splits the cost of child care between the employee, employer, and the state, offering an affordable option for working parents and guardians. By putting families first, Michigan shows its commitment to supporting the complexities of balancing work and life.
Image credit: Michigan Economic Development Corporation
Additionally, Michigan boasts a variety of family-friendly activities and destinations. With endless outdoor options like cider mills and pumpkin patches, more adventurous options like zip-lining, and numerous historical sites and museums, there are activities for the whole family. Ann Arbor was named Fortune’s Best Place to Live for Families in 2022 with its top-rated schools, concerts, parades, festivals, access to 160 parks, and walkable downtown area. U.S. News & World Report ranked both Grand Rapids and Ann Arbor in their top 25 cities for families to live in the U.S. in 2023-2024. According to WalletHub, Detroit is fourth in the country for the most playgrounds per capita.
Residents seeking to find balance between work and raising a family can feel right at home in Michigan, with affordable care options and a family-friendly environment.
Learn more about what it’s like to work and live in Michigan and take the quiz to see what city might be the best fit.
