living in the upper peninsula
inches of snowfall each winter
%
lower crime rate than the national average
miles of recreational trails
minutues for average commute time
TOP CITIES TO LIVE IN
Marquette – The biggest city in the Upper Peninsula with a major port primarily used for shipping iron ore from the Marquette Iron Range. Home to Northern Michigan University.
- A population of roughly 21,000+
- Median household income (2023) – $55,825
- Median gross rent rate (2023) – $958
- Median value of houses (2023) – $254,100
Houghton – Also referred to as the “Gateway to the Keweenaw”, Houghton is one of the 100 best places to live according to Norman Crampton (Author of The 100 Best Small Towns in America). Home to Michigan Tech Univerisity.
- A population of roughly 8,500+
- Median household income (2023) – $35,417
- Median gross rent rate (2023) – $861
- Median value of houses (2023) – $233,700
Sault Ste. Marie – The second largest city in the Upper Peninsula with hundreds of miles of snowmobile routes. This city thrives on tourism, due to its port into Canada and located right across the Mackinac Bridge. Home to Lake Superior State University.
- A population of roughly 13,300+
- Median household income (2023) – $55,031
- Median gross rent rate (2023) – $787
- Median value of houses (2023) – $127,300
Escanaba – A beauitful port city on Lake Michigan, commonly shortened to Esky. Escanaba is a resident-dense city with an active lifestyle feel to it.
- A population of roughly 12,300+
- Median household income (2023) – $40,169
- Median gross rent rate (2023) – $661
- Median value of houses (2023) – $116,600
TOP THINGS TO DO
- Explore Copper Harbor – Visit the iconic Brockway Mountain Drive for panoramic views of Lake Superior. Go mountain biking on world-class trails at the Copper Harbor Trail System.
- Tour Historic Mines – Take a guided tour of the Quincy Mine or Delaware Mine to learn about the area’s rich copper mining history.
- Hike and Explore – Isle Royale National Park (via ferry from Houghton or Copper Harbor) offers pristine wilderness. Hike in the Estivant Pines Nature Sanctuary, home to old growth white pines. Swim, kayak, or just relax at Bete Grise Preserve, known for its singing sands.
- Stargazing and Northern Lights – Catch the northern lights or enjoy some of the clearest night skies in Michigan. Popular spots include Copper Harbor and McLain State Park.
- Mackinac Island – Car-free streets for the past 100 years. Slow-paced pace popular vacation spot. Perfect for your next island vacation.
WHO TO FOLLOW
- @Visit_KeweenawHighlighting the natural beauty and adventures of Michigan’s Keweenaw Peninsula, this account showcases breathtaking landscapes, thrilling outdoor activities, and local gems that make the region unique.
- @bugsysailor
A celebration of Great Lakes culture and Lake Superior’s iconic sunrises, this account shares maritime history, stunning vistas, and cherished Upper Peninsula traditions. - @freshcoastcabins
Your source for serene escapes, featuring cozy lakefront cabins, awe-inspiring Lake Superior views, and the peaceful charm of the Keweenaw Peninsula. - @outdoorpixs
Capturing the spirit of outdoor exploration, this account features stunning photography of the Keweenaw’s rugged terrain, pristine waters, and untamed beauty. - @logbook_stories
Sharing tales from the Great Lakes and beyond, this account intertwines maritime history, adventure stories, and snapshots of life on the water.
GROUPS TO JOIN (NETWORKING)
- Keweenaw Young Professionals a networking and social group dedicated to fostering connections, personal growth, and community involvement among young professionals in the Keweenaw Peninsula.
- Copper Country Running Co Group Run a welcoming community of runners of all levels, gathering for group runs and camaraderie while exploring the scenic trails and roads of the Copper Country.
- Keweenaw Outdoor Recreation Coalition advocates for the preservation and accessibility of outdoor recreation opportunities in the Keweenaw, this group brings together individuals passionate about the region’s natural beauty and outdoor lifestyle.
- Surfrider Northern Michigan is a grassroots organization focused on protecting and preserving the Great Lakes through conservation efforts, community outreach, and a love for surfing and water sports.
- Michigan Backcountry Alliance is a collective of outdoor enthusiasts promoting the preservation of Michigan’s wild, untouched backcountry for activities like skiing, snowboarding, hiking, and exploration.
- Keweenaw Remote Workforce offers a portal for those wanting to explore locating their remote work and offers a community for those remote wrokers.
- Superior Search & Rescue is a ground-based, volunteer organization assisting Houghton and Ontonagon County law enforcement agencies in finding missing persons. They also support community events with communications and logistical support.