Why People Are Moving to Clare County

If you’ve noticed more out-of-town license plates around Clare County lately, you’re not imagining things. Over the past several years, our area has been attracting new residents from larger cities and metro areas, and honestly, it’s not hard to understand why.

Affordability is probably the biggest reason. When you compare home prices here to what people are paying in Lansing, Grand Rapids, Detroit, or even further-away cities like Chicago, the difference is striking. In Clare County, you can buy a spacious home, maybe even one with a few acres, for a price that would barely get you a small condo in a major city. For families and individuals who are looking to stretch their dollar and get real value, this area is incredibly appealing.

Then there’s the lifestyle. Clare County is an outdoor lover’s paradise. We have the Muskegon River, dozens of inland lakes, state forests, trails, and recreational opportunities that people in big cities dream about. Hunting, fishing, kayaking, snowmobiling, hiking, it’s all right here. For people who are tired of traffic, noise, and crowds, our area offers something they simply can’t find in the city.

Remote work has also changed the equation for a lot of people. Since the pandemic, many professionals can now work from anywhere with a good internet connection. That has opened the door for people to leave expensive urban areas and relocate to more affordable, peaceful places, like Clare County. We’re seeing buyers who work remotely for companies in other states but choose to live here because of the quality of life and cost of living.

Community also plays a big role. Small towns like Clare have a sense of connection and belonging that can be hard to find in a big city. People know their neighbors. Local businesses know your name. There’s a pride of place here that newcomers often notice and appreciate right away.

If you’ve been considering a move to the area, or if you’re a long-time resident thinking about what your home might be worth to an out-of-town buyer, the market right now is worth paying attention to.

Daniel Dwyer-Snyder is an Associate Broker with CENTURY 21 Signature Realty in Clare. He can be reached at Info@RealtorDaniel.com or 989-321-9927.