Great place to live
-
4/4/2013
For those who are interested in a laid-back community with low cost of living, rich human history, surrounded by impressive natural beauty, Houghton is the place. The local economy currently rests mostly on the universities (Michigan Tech, a competitive research/teaching institution, and Finlandia University in Hancock), as well as tourism.
Given its isolation, the area is relatively quite vibrant, with many cultural and social events, organized through numerous student groups, community organizations, and the university itself. There is a large international graduate student population at Michigan Tech, too, which also helps to infuse cultural vibrancy into the area.
Winters are typically very harsh (regularly more than 150" snow, sometimes 300"), though opportunities for outdoor recreation abound. If you love winter, this might be heaven. Summers are gorgeous and summer days are long, with the opportunity for many stunning hikes hidden along the Lake Superior coast.
With a local taxi service, shuttle, and an airport, it's possible to live without a car here. It can be challenging, though, especially with children. Cost of housing is low, and both rental and home ownership are options here- both older (often run-down) houses and newer suburb-like divisions are common.
There are somewhat limited restaurant/shopping options, but you can get all the basics: there are a few excellent breweries, several local grocery stores, a Walmart, a Staples, a movie theater, a few nicer restaurants including Asian and Mexican, and numerous diners, pizza places, and chain restaurants.
It is a very safe place to live and raise a family, with good schools and pre-schools. Undergraduate partying is relatively keyed down compared to some places- not too much impact on the town. Health care is good though certain services (like dermatology) can be more difficult to find.
Before coming, be aware: Houghton/Hancock is isolated- a full day's drive from Chicago or Detroit. If you enjoy the outdoors and low cost of living, this really is more of a benefit than a detriment, though!
Ducky | Scottsville, NY