why lansing

Why Lansing?

Big things are happening. Are you ready to get in on the ground floor? Affordable, connected, inclusive, inspiring. That sounds like a pretty good place to call home.

Something special is brewing here.

At every period of resurgence, there’s a peculiar energy in the air. It’s difficult to pinpoint: excitement, anticipation, inspiration, determination. Yes, something like that. People making connections, businesses takings creative risks, artists changing the landscape—there really is a sense of something magical happening in Lansing. Across the landscape, we’re rolling up our sleeves and getting involved in a movement that’s a whole lot bigger than ourselves—and we’re exploring who we are along the way. That’s how it feels right now in Lansing.

Atmosphere

Let's talk vibes — Lansing's got a fresh start, authentic people, and a welcoming environment. We appreciate the good ol' Midwestern seasons, with a pool or beach in the summer, cider mills and fall colors in autumn, cross-country skiing and snowshoeing in winter, and that crisp air to welcome spring. We're always changing, just like the Midwest weather

And let's not forget the Midwest-friendly feeling. Lansing is an inclusive place where you can bring your whole self. Inclusive spaces welcome everyone, regardless of background, walk of life, or beliefs. We believe in the strength of diversity, and whatever your story or future plans, you are welcome in Lansing.

When it comes to work, Lansing strikes a balance between working hard and enjoying the everyday. With a Big Ten university and an innovative spirit, we value thinking big. Career opportunities in government, healthcare, insurance, tech, and entrepreneurship give you opportunities to flex that work ethic—but we understand that there's much to explore beyond the office after 5 p.m., too.

Housing

In most markets, you might not be able to buy a home within biking distance of work and enough square footage to start a garden on your current salary. Then again, most markets aren’t Lansing.

Lansing offers a diverse range of housing options across 25 communities. Whether you're into modern loft apartments, historic bungalows, or sprawling ranches in the countryside, there's a place that reflects your personality and lifestyle. It also doesn’t hurt that compared to other metropolitan areas of the same size, Lansing delivers more bedrooms for your buck—so you can pay off your mortgage faster or splurge on an amazing view.

At some point, it’s time to think outside the walls of cramped city apartments with rent that eats your whole paycheck. When you can put down roots somewhere, you can thrive there. Find a place where you can truly connect with and become an integral part of your community. There’s a home for everyone here. The future you’ve always imagined? You can build it here in Lansing.

Transportation

Say goodbye to traffic headaches. Getting around Lansing is a breeze, thanks to efficient expressways, scenic country roads, and an accessible public transit system that provides 32 routes (including a lunch trolley) servicing the Lansing area and Michigan State University. And, of course, ridesharing services and cabs are never in short supply. (Especially after a night out.)

And because we do things a little differently in Lansing, your commute doesn’t need to involve four wheels. Walk, bike, or even kayak to work (we won’t judge) on Lansing’s 13-mile River Trail, which connects numerous neighborhoods to the downtown hub along the banks of the beautiful Grand River and Red Cedar River.

Plus, being centrally located in the mitten state means you're just a short drive away from the Great Lakes, Detroit, Grand Rapids, or even a spontaneous trip to Chicago.

And if you’re looking to use those vacation days? We’ve got an international airport for that, right here in Lansing. You’ve got places to go and people to see, and Lansing’s got more than a few ways for you to get there.

In Lansing, we're all about that Midwest-friendly feeling. Inclusive spaces and organizations welcome people from diverse backgrounds and points of view: all ages, groups, beliefs and walks of life are welcome here. Authenticity is the name of the game, and positive energy drives connection, creativity, and community spirit.

Lansing’s people make our city home; we are the next generation of revitalization. We’re excited to be a part of it, and we’ve saved a spot for you.

Explore Lansing's Network of Communities