Michigan became the 26th state to join the Union on January 26, 1837. Before the Civil War, agriculture and mining provided the majority of the economy's resources. Those from New York were drawn to the frontier society of the state, while jobs offered a chance to immigrate from England. The town names reflect how the region was in the settlement at the beginning of the century.
The automobile industry was what brought Michigan into the 20th century. Battle Creek's breakfast cereals provided a measure of diversity. Then thousands of machine shops opened throughout the state, creating an essential industrial presence. Since industries have been a significant component of the state's economy, the recessions have been felt more acutely than in other states. Still, at the same time, resilience has developed.
The pros and cons of living in Michigan are a varied set of points to consider. You can focus on urban living, settling into rural life, or something in the middle. This state allows you to drive toward whatever goals you prefer.
Here are a few of the best things to expect if you wish to live in Michigan:
Best: Enjoy Sweetwater's Donuts and Mackinac Island fudge
The state of Michigan is home to two of the best sweet treats in the country. Sweetwater's Donuts is a trendy donut shop open 24/7 all year round. You can find cheesecake donuts and other specialties there. It's worth trying at least once.
If you want to buy some fudge, you can also take a weekend trip to Mackinac Island. It's undoubtedly the best in the world, and you'll find it addictive.
Best: Creative and feisty people
The fact that Michigan is a blue-collar state is a point of pride for many of its residents. Although Detroit eventually declared bankruptcy, its resilient people managed to pull this state out of economic collapse. Everybody here is stubborn to being opinionated and honest to the point of being hysterical. Your neighbors often dig your car out first, making them one of the friendliest groups in the country.
Michigan's residents are survivors. They take care of one another. Even though recent times have been challenging, they have returned stronger.
Now, let us take a look at some of the worst things you can expect in Michigan:
Worst: Michigan vs. Ohio rivalry
Most local commentary on the best and worst things about living in Michigan mentions that Ohio is a border state. This rivalry has been back and forth for many years, but it stems primarily from sports feuds rather than historical ties. A classic example of how people can be when discussing neighbors is the Michigan vs. Ohio State football game each year.
If you have family or you are a native of Ohio, you can expect everyone in the state to have an opinion about it. In your presence, you'll notice their emotional reaction change even if they don't say anything because of Midwestern manners.
Worst: Expensive educational system
Michigan has a higher tuition rate for in-state students than most states in the U.S. The average tuition cost in the state exceeds $6,500 per year, placing it among the top 10% of states in this area. Therefore, student debt is much higher here if you intend to earn a degree. You can pursue manufacturing and industrial jobs instead, but when you look at all of Michigan's benefits, you'll need to figure out the cost of school.
Bonus: Let's have more fun by taking a look at these fun facts about Michigan:
- Detroit is known as the car capital of the world.
- Alpena is the home of the world's largest cement plant.
- Rogers City boasts the world's largest limestone quarry.
- Elsie is the home of the world's largest registered Holstein dairy herd.
- Michigan is first in the United States production of peat and magnesium compounds and second in gypsum and iron ore.
- Colon is home to the world's largest manufacture of magic supplies.
- The state Capitol with its majestic dome was in Lansing in l879.
- Although Michigan is often called the "Wolverine State," there are no longer any wolverines in Michigan.
- Michigan ranks first in state boat registrations.
- The Packard Motor Car Company in Detroit manufactured the first air-conditioned car in 1939.
Sources:
https://www.50states.com/facts/michigan.htm
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Michigan
https://www.awesomemitten.com/sweetwaters-donut-mill/
https://study.com/articles/Detroit_Michigan_City_and_Education_Facts.html
https://www.quora.com/What-is-the-rivalry-between-Michigan-and-Ohio-states-based-on
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