Moving From Ohio to Michigan: What You Really Need to Know

Over the last few years, I’ve had a huge influx of people from Ohio asking about moving to Michigan—what life is like here, whether the move is worth it, and what the differences actually are. So if you’re comparing the two states, this breakdown is for you.

And yes… to answer the most common question upfront: Michigan does not require kayak registration. (Ohio friends, I know that’s a big one.)

According to the U.S. Census Bureau, more than 12,000 people moved from Ohio to Michigan in 2019, making Ohio one of the top feeder states. The natural follow-up question I hear is: Why?

Michigan and Ohio are similar in many ways—Midwestern culture, four seasons, comparable cost of living—but they’re also different enough to influence relocation decisions. Even lifestyle and travel websites acknowledge the contrast: Thrillist once ranked Michigan #1 in the country… and Ohio #48.

Let’s break down what people moving from Ohio to Michigan usually want to know.

Michigan vs. Ohio: Scenery and Outdoor Lifestyle

If there’s one area where Michigan clearly stands out, it’s scenery.

Michigan has more than 3,200 miles of freshwater coastline, thousands of lakes, countless rivers, and two distinct peninsulas—each with unique landscapes and recreational opportunities. Whether you’re into hiking, fishing, boating, biking, off-roading, or simply exploring forests and dunes, Michigan is built for outdoor living.

Ohio has beautiful areas too, but its shoreline and lake access are far more limited at around 312 miles.

Many Ohio residents moving north say that Michigan’s scenery and outdoor accessibility were major deciding factors.

Michigan vs. Ohio Job Markets

When comparing job markets, both states have strengths. To keep things consistent, here’s a comparison between Ann Arbor (Michigan) and Cincinnati (Ohio), which are similar in size and economic structure.

• Ann Arbor unemployment rate: ~3.5%
• Cincinnati unemployment rate: ~4.9%

Long-term job growth projections show Ann Arbor outpacing Cincinnati, especially in tech, healthcare, research, engineering, and corporate innovation sectors. Michigan’s automotive-adjacent economy, tech corridor, and research hubs offer many long-term career opportunities.

Income levels are almost identical statewide:

• Michigan median household income: ~$59,000
• Ohio median household income: ~$58,000

Both states offer strong job markets—the choice depends on your industry and desired location.

Cost of Living and Housing Comparisons

This is where nuance matters.

Michigan and Ohio real estate values fluctuate based on the exact location. Urban Michigan (like Ann Arbor or Birmingham) can be more expensive than rural Ohio. Urban Ohio (like Columbus) can be more expensive than suburban or rural Michigan.

Average home prices are nearly identical overall:

• Michigan average home price: ~$208,000
• Ohio average home price: ~$205,000

Because affordability swings widely depending on the exact area, it’s important to compare specific cities—not the states as a whole.

Education: Michigan vs. Ohio Schools

Both states have impressive colleges, but national rankings often place Michigan’s top institutions higher overall.

According to U.S. News & World Report and other ranking systems:

• Michigan ranks higher nationally for best-value and top public universities.
• University of Michigan frequently lands in the Top 5–10 public universities in the nation.
• Michigan State, Michigan Tech, and other institutions also perform well.

According to the U.S. Department of Education:

• U-M’s graduation rate is ~10% higher than Ohio State’s.
• U-M grads earn ~$23,000 more annually on average.
• U-M students graduate with lower median federal student loan debt.

Both states have excellent schools, but Michigan tends to rank higher on national lists.

Understanding Moving Costs From Ohio to Michigan

If you’re considering relocating from Ohio to Michigan, here’s a realistic breakdown of expenses.

Average professional moving company cost:
— Around $2,600+, depending on distance and home size.

Example: Cincinnati → Metro Detroit

• U-Haul 20’ truck: ~ $302
• Moving help: $100–$150/hr for two helpers (in both states)

Compared to long-distance moves across the country, moving from Ohio to Michigan is relatively affordable.

Why People Are Moving From Ohio to Michigan

Here are the most common reasons former Ohio residents mention:

• More outdoor recreation and lake access
• Cleaner, larger shorelines and natural spaces
• Comparable cost of living
• Strong job opportunities in several metro areas
• High-ranking universities
• Unique towns, history, and culture

Michigan isn’t perfect—but it offers a lifestyle and landscape that many people prefer once they experience it firsthand.

FAQ: Moving From Ohio to Michigan

Is Michigan more expensive than Ohio?
Not necessarily. Both states are very similar overall. It depends on the exact city or metro area.

Is Michigan safer than Ohio?
Safety depends on the specific city or neighborhood in either state. Research individual areas as you compare.

Why do people move from Ohio to Michigan?
Scenery, job opportunities, lake access, and lifestyle often top the list.

Are moving costs high?
No—Ohio to Michigan is one of the more affordable interstate moves due to short distance.

Do I need to register my kayak in Michigan?
No. Michigan does not require registration for non-motorized watercraft.

Are schools better in Michigan?
Both states have great options, but Michigan universities tend to score higher on national rankings.

Final Thoughts

If you’re comparing Ohio and Michigan, your decision will come down to the lifestyle you want, the job market you need, and the type of community you’re looking for. Michigan offers unmatched lake access, natural beauty, strong job hubs, and diverse cities—all of which make it a top choice for thousands of relocating residents each year.

If you're thinking about making the move and want help exploring communities, neighborhoods, or home options, feel free to reach out anytime.