Need advice on moving to Michigan!

Question

We've been to different parts of Michigan & have fallen in love with the state! Mackinac Island, White Fish Bay, Grand Haven, South Haven & Traverse City. Each time we visit we don't want to leave! We've lived in St. Louis all our lives & ready for a change. Thinking of moving in the next 2-3 years but want to stay within a 5-6 hour drive from family in St. Louis. New Buffalo & Three Oaks were recommended by friends living in Michigan. Any other recommendations for safe, family friendly, areas? Interested in bike trails, beach, safe neighborhood & good school for our 9 yr. old.

Thanks for any advice you can offer.

Answer

Michigan offers a wonderful mix of small towns, lakefront living, and family-friendly communities within a reasonable drive from St. Louis. Since your priorities are safety, good schools, biking trails, beach access, and a welcoming environment for your 9-year-old, the southwest region of Michigan along Lake Michigan is a great place to focus.

Southwest Michigan – Berrien and Van Buren Counties:

This area is within roughly a 5–6 hour drive from St. Louis and has several charming towns with strong community focus.

New Buffalo: A classic lakefront town with sandy beaches, bike trails (like the Galien River Trail), and a family-friendly atmosphere. Schools are solid, and the area is considered safe. The downtown is walkable with restaurants, shops, and seasonal events.
Three Oaks: Quaint and artsy with a small-town feel. Excellent for families who enjoy festivals, farmers markets, and cultural events. Not directly on the lake but close enough for weekend beach trips.
Buchanan: Slightly inland but offers good schools, safe neighborhoods, and access to parks and trails. Convenient for commuting to New Buffalo or St. Joseph.
St. Joseph / Benton Harbor area: St. Joseph has a beautiful downtown, beaches, parks, and a strong family-friendly vibe. Benton Harbor is nearby but varies by neighborhood.
Saugatuck / Douglas: Trendy, artistic towns with access to beaches and hiking/biking trails. Schools are good, and the area offers plenty of cultural events, though housing can be pricier.

Additional options within 5–6 hours from St. Louis:

South Haven: Lakefront town with beautiful beaches, bike trails, and family-friendly amenities. Schools are generally well-regarded, and the area is known for safety and small-town charm.
Grand Haven: Larger than some other lake towns but still maintains a safe, community-oriented feel. Excellent beach access, a lighthouse, and biking trails along the shoreline. Schools are solid and the town is very family-friendly.
Harbor Country region: Includes towns like Union Pier, Lakeside, and Michiana. These towns offer quiet neighborhoods, bike trails, and proximity to beaches while maintaining a rural charm.

Overall, for your criteria—proximity to St. Louis, safe neighborhoods, lake access, biking and walking trails, and good schools—Southwest Michigan is an excellent choice. Towns like New Buffalo, Three Oaks, and South Haven provide the mix of small-town charm, outdoor recreation, and family-friendly amenities you’re looking for. Saugatuck and Grand Haven are slightly larger but offer a vibrant cultural scene along with beach and trail access, making them great alternatives to consider.

Need advice on moving to Michigan!

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