Muskegon, Michigan, has seen an influx of remote workers drawn to the area for its natural amenities and low cost of living over the past few years. Muskegon offers miles of sandy beaches and abundant outdoor recreation that appeals to those able to work remotely, according to Muskegon MI real estate agent Nick Sparks. Here are some factors that attract people to this lovely city:
Outdoor recreation and natural beauty
At the heart of Muskegon’s draw for remote workers is its prime location along Lake Michigan. Muskegon has numerous public beaches and state parks, providing ample outdoor activities such as swimming, boating, kayaking, hiking, and bird watching. The area features only two lighthouses on Michigan’s eastern shoreline, scenic marshes teeming with wildlife, inland lakes, rivers, campgrounds, and golf courses. Muskegon’s extensive shoreline, dunes, forests, and natural habitats create an idyllic landscape during remote work breaks or weekend adventures.
Revitalized downtown on the waterfront
Muskegon provides cultural amenities with its revitalized downtown located on Muskegon Lake. After falling into economic decline in past decades, downtown Muskegon has benefitted from recent redevelopment efforts to transform into a vibrant, up-and-coming waterfront district. The downtown area now has craft breweries and distilleries, unique shops and art galleries, trendy cafés, farm-to-table restaurants, and the state-of-the-art Frauenthal Theater venue.
Buying a home in Muskegon: Affordable housing market
Remote workers have recently flocked to Muskegon because of the area’s affordable housing. Remote work has become increasingly popular, increasing home prices and rents in many desirable markets nationwide. Muskegon offers remote workers the chance to enjoy a high quality of life with easy access to natural amenities without the huge housing costs in most tech hubs or major cities. Everything from downtown lofts to waterfront homes to suburban single-family houses is available at a fraction of the price in most metro areas. Reasonable taxes and general cost of living expenses make Muskegon all the more attractive for workers and young families hoping to buy their first home.
A new hub for location-independent careers
Muskegon, known for its small city amenities, natural beauty, and low living cost, has become a popular destination for millennials and those seeking location-flexible career opportunities. Muskegon, once overlooked as a lower-key rustbelt city, is now attracting digital nomads due to its transformation and the rise of hybrid and remote work.
Homes for sale in Muskegon
Homebuyers can find options to fit various budgets and lifestyles, from historic Craftsman bungalows to newly constructed ranch houses. Homes typically have 3-4 bedrooms and 1-2 bathrooms, with prices ranging from around $220,000 for a fixer-upper to $400,000 or more for a higher-end property with lake access.
Things to do in Muskegon
Muskegon has beautiful Lake Michigan beaches and scenic trails perfect for a relaxed walk or bike ride. The Muskegon Museum of Art houses an impressive fine art collection, while the USS Silversides Submarine Museum allows you to explore a WWII sub. See tigers and other exotic animals up close at the Blandford Nature Center. Tour the LST 393 Veterans Museum to learn about this WWII naval ship if you’re a history buff. Catch views of the Muskegon Lighthouse and Lake Express ferry coming into port near Heritage Landing downtown.