Battle Creek and other Calhoun County communities like Marshall have a lot to offer! Located in South Central Michigan, Battle Creek is small enough to be friendly and inviting, yet big enough to provide a variety of activities, events and opportunities to explore.
The city of Battle Creek is conveniently located along I-94 between larger cities like Detroit and Chicago, and Grand Rapids and Indianapolis are not too far away either. While you are not far from these major cities, you're also very close to amazing beaches along Lake Michigan, ethnic and community festivals, concerts and countless outdoor activities.
The overall cost of living in Battle Creek is 7 percent lower than the national average, and residents have an average commute of 20 minutes – making it a great place to live, work and raise a family.
Learn More at Battle Creek Unlimited
Learn More from the Battle Creek Area Chamber of Commerce
Kalamazoo, and the surrounding areas of Portage, Richland, Mattawan and Texas Township, have much to offer. Kalamazoo’s lively downtown boasts many great dining experiences, shops and local breweries. It is home to minor league sports teams like the Kalamazoo KWings (ice hockey) and Kalamazoo Growlers (baseball). For the outdoor enthusiasts, enjoy expansive nature trails, well-maintained parks and lakes, and other waterfront activities.
Western Michigan University, Kalamazoo College and Kalamazoo Valley Community College make the area an education hub. For growing families, Kalamazoo is home to the Kalamazoo Promise. The Kalamazoo Promise is a scholarship program that provides all Kalamazoo Public School graduate up to 100% tuition for post-secondary education. Created in 2005 through the generous donations of anonymous local donors, this is one of the most prolific scholarships this world has ever seen.
Kalamazoo is conveniently located along I-94 with larger cities like Detroit and Chicago only two hours away. Even closer, head 45 minutes north and enjoy a day trip to Grand Rapids to enjoy a lively art and entertainment scene. Or go 45 minutes west to enjoy the towns and beaches along Lake Michigan.
U.S. News recently rated Kalamazoo the #3 City to Live in Michigan, as well as the #14 Most Affordable Place to Live in the U.S. – making it a great place to live, work and raise a family.
Learn More at Discover Kalamazoo
Learn More from the Kalamazoo Regional Chamber of Commerce
South Haven is a breath of fresh air for anyone looking to experience the comfort of small town living on the Great Lakes. Settled along Lake Michigan, this quaint lakefront community is home to pristine white sand beaches and offers year-round culture and charm. Some of the outdoor attractions South Haven residents enjoy include:
- Miles of sandy beach and lakeshore parks to enjoy
- Four marinas with 229 boating slips available for either seasonal or transient boaters
- The Michigan Maritime Museum and the famous South Haven Lighthouse
- A lively downtown, featuring local boutiques, restaurants and bars, as well as a summertime farmer’s market
- Nature trails, ideal for walking, biking and exploring
South Haven is only 45 minutes from the cities of Kalamazoo and Grand Rapids making it easy to take excursions for dining, shopping and entertainment. Even closer are other lakeshore communities to explore like St. Joseph, Saugatuck, Holland and Grand Haven.
Though it is a beach town, South Haven still ranks slightly below Michigan’s average cost of living. With its affordability and endless opportunities for outdoor fun, it is an ideal setting to raise a family with a relaxing, peaceful lifestyle.
Learn More About the City of South Haven
There is a lot to like about the picturesque village of Paw Paw. This small town is known for its warm community and endless opportunities to enjoy the beauty of southwest Michigan. Paw Paw is home to many inland lakes and is close to some of Michigan’s best wineries. Located within Van Buren County, Paw Paw is close to numerous nature trails for walking, biking and exploring, farms where you can purchase delicious fresh fruit and produce, and gorgeous golf courses that are perfect for some friendly competition.
Living in Paw Paw is affordable! It ranks 21% below the national average for cost of living, and 42% below the national average for cost of housing. It is located 20 miles west of Kalamazoo, along I-94. So, whether you want to plan a weekend getaway in Chicago, spend the day along the beaches of South Haven or Grand Haven, or venture north to Grand Rapids, Paw Paw is the perfect town for those looking to enjoy the simplicity of small-town living, while never being far from more big-city action.
Learn more from the Paw Paw Area Chamber of Commerce
