Stress can impact your life in ways you didn't imagine and without a proper work-life balance, your body may be under more stress than you realize. If you are having difficulty relaxing, if you feel moody or overwhelmed, have low energy or are constantly worrying, you may be exhibiting signs of stress. If you are feeling the effects of stress and want to get away from long drives and long hours, consider these Michigan cities for the best work-life balances.
East Lansing: If you work in education, you have that in common with over 30 percent of the population in East Lansing. Michigan State University employees many professors, students and other full-time employees. Plus, the university is very research-focused to fit in with your scientific needs. The median income for those living here is approximately $33,000. The average home/condo value is approximately $173,700. You will not have to struggle to pay your mortgage and if you decide to rent, the average rental cost is around $900.00 a month. These affordable prices and nearness to quality careers make East Lansing, Michigan a desirable city when you are searching for work-life balance. Plus, you have access to a city but with the feel of a smaller, community town.
Ann Arbor: The other, large, college town in Southeastern Michigan for the best work-life balance is Ann Arbor. Home to the University of Michigan, Ann Arbor residents have an average income of approximately $60,000 and an average home value of $232,000. For rent, you can expect to pay $1,100 per month. Aside from the affordable housing, The University of Michigan Hospital in Ann Arbor employees many residents. From doctors, nurses, and support staff, the hospital is one of the main career-focused companies in the area. The University of Michigan is also a large employer and multiple job listings are always posted on their web-site. Living and working in this college town is relaxing as you can walk or bike to work, or enjoy a stroll through the downtown shops. The various restaurants satisfy all tastes and the entertainment and diverse culture will delight you. Ann Arbor may also be your destination if you enjoy working for non-profit agencies or financial institutions- both of which are predominant here. You can make a difference in your daily work, then return home to your traditional or modern house and enjoy your life.
Birmingham: If you want the convenience of being close to the freeways for quick commutes to Detroit, Dearborn or Lansing, but also enjoy the small-town feel of a community-grounded Michigan town, Birmingham is your place to be. Actor Tim Allen was raised in Birmingham, MI and approximately 20,000 people call this community their home. Birmingham has a unique culture which encompasses those from every walk of life. You are near enough to unique boutique shops and franchise retail stores for when you look to shopping for your escape from stress. Birmingham also has many outdoor parks and walking trails to help keep your body healthy and mind clear. It is the perfect city if you are searching for a location to open up a business, as small businesses are community supported. Most residents work a four-hour week with short commutes to companies such as Ford, GM or PNC bank. The work-life balance is a must in Birmingham. Community events and family-focused outings require time and presence. Yes, work is a priority, but in this town where the median age is 41, over 30 percent of the approximately 9,000 homes had children under the age of 18. Setting a healthy work-life balance example to children is important so that our society remains low stressed, yet success driven.
Howell: If city life is not what creates a work-life balance for you, venture into the country to a small town called Howell. The median income for residents of Howell is approximately $43,000. You can expect to pay around $121,000 for your home or condo in Howell. You can find a variety of styles from historical homes and traditional architecture to modern homes or condos near the downtown area. Downtown Howell is known for its annual community events such as the Melon Festival and Balloon Festival, in which residents of neighboring town visit to spend a day here. You can spend every day in Howell and choose to own your own business, or work for larger companies such as St. Joseph Livingston Hospital, Howell Public Schools or Pepsi- all of which are located in Howell. If your work takes you to the larger cities of Southfield, Ann Arbor or Lansing, expect a commute between 20 and 40 minutes of freeways that are easily accessed from this small, farm-based town. Your work-life balance flourishes here as when you return home, the worries of the day are alleviated. Backyard views of nature including deer, geese, heron and rabbits will remind you of the simpler things in life.
