Traverse City, MI Reviews


28 Reviews



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What BestPlaces Users Say about Traverse City

Traverse City, Michigan is a city located on the Grand Traverse Bay in Northern Michigan. Known for its beautiful lakes, beaches, and wineries, it is a popular tourist destination. However, many people also choose to call Traverse City their home. With a population of around 16,000, it offers a small-town feel with access to outdoor activities and a thriving downtown area. Many user reviews highlight the positives and negatives of living in this particular place, providing valuable insights for those considering a move to Traverse City.

According to user "Michelle," who has lived in Traverse City for over 20 years, "There's never a shortage of things to do, whether it's hiking, biking, or enjoying a local festival." She also praises the strong sense of community and the friendly locals. "Everyone is so welcoming and kind here," she adds.

Another user, "John," shares a different perspective, stating that "the cost of living in Traverse City is quite high, especially for housing." He also mentions that job opportunities can be limited in certain industries.

On the other hand, user "Samantha" raves about the natural beauty of the area, saying "the views of the bay and surrounding forests are breathtaking." She also appreciates the variety of restaurants and locally-owned shops in the downtown area.

However, not all reviews are positive. User "David" expresses frustration with the traffic and infrastructure in Traverse City, stating that it can be challenging to navigate during peak tourist season. He also mentions that the winters can be long and harsh.

Overall, the majority of user reviews highlight the charm and beauty of Traverse City, while also acknowledging the high cost of living and potential drawbacks of living in a tourist destination. It's clear that this city offers a unique and diverse living experience for its residents.

 based on 28 Reviews
Get to know Traverse City with the latest comments and reviews from people who live in or have visited Traverse City

It's no 'Jewel' by no means - 6/1/2013
'Jewel of the north"? Give me a break and the census info is wrong. We have a far greater number of people who live here. We have the same crime as any other growing city. Most earn minimum wage and the median income is about 40k that's including the large number who live on public assistance. Decent rentals are extremely expensive and cost the same as major cities like San Diego, Boulder, etc. Needs greater for reasonable priced housing than is available.

I'm A typical of the second largest population, highest being on welfare. I'm a mom with a dead beat ex spouse trying to support 2 kids. I work 2 jobs and earn 36k per year, I pay 1100 per month for a 2 bdrm small apt., that doesn't include all utilities. It's not just the price of housing and low wages, food, clothing and all is expensive in Traverse City.

Other than low wages one of the biggest issues in area is racism. We got a big population of racists. Minorities are denied housing and jobs on that Read More
Lisa | ,  | Reply | No Replies

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Our lakes and trails - 5/29/2013
We have the best lakes and trails to enjoy. Hiking, swimming, fishing, and boating are all available to Read More
Susan | ,  | Reply | No Replies

Nurse practitioner jobs - 1/13/2013
How plentiful are nurse practitioner jobs ......how great is your city to live in?

Thanks for any Read More

The Good and Bad of Traverse City - 7/31/2011
I resided in MI for 13 years, in Frankfort for 2 of those, TC for 7, and downstate for the rest. I do think TC's a beautiful area and great for outdoor recreation, with clean air and little crime. Those are the highlights, and they are significant. I do laugh at some of these other comments people have made though. The Interlochen Center for the Arts and Cherry Fest were only music venues I experienced, and the performers were past-their-prime artists. If you want to see a current artist, you'll probably have to drive to Detroit, which I know many young people did. Of course, what would one expect for a small town? Nonetheless, where is this arts and culture "T" writes about?! C'mon!
On another note, do be prepared to "carry your own weather with you," otherwise the near-constant grey skies may be depressing. I think this may be a good place for families and healthy retirees who can handle the snow. However, I would not recommend it for singles. There are wineries Read More

Beautiful area - 3/12/2011
I grew up here and moved away for many years. I got the chance to move back 11 years ago. It is a absolutely beautiful area especially in the summer. There are dozens and dozens of lakes around us. Winters can be brutal or fantastic if you like to ski and snowmobile. The cold winters are getting to me and I'm thinking about moving somewhere warmer! I die for summers and love them here but need more than 3 months! It is a great place to raise kids with very little crime and very nice friendly people. Read More

Housing for low income families - 8/26/2010
Hello I've lived in Traverse city, MI for all my life and one thing I have
noticed is T.C. seems to be lagging behind a bit in the low income housing developments area. I love the T.C. area but please study your options Read More

Traverse City - Good experiences - 4/8/2010
I have relatives in Leland and have been in Traverse City many times. I have always had a positive experience while visiting. Traverse City, Leland, and the surrounding area have many wonderful events and experiences for visitors. The people are friendly and welcoming. I'm glad I have had the opportunity to experience this area of the United Read More

Northern Michigan... - 10/7/2008
Overall, I've found Traverse City, Michigan, to be fair in culture and recreation, but it continues to grow upwards in these areas. The people I've met and befriended are kind and truly appreciative of their surroundings here, there is a very 'Up North' way of living and gratefulness of life.
If you are raising a family or looking for a place to retire, Traverse City seems excellent. However, I've observed that people (myself included) in their twenties and thirties might be lacking in areas of enrichment after several years in Traverse City.
Because of it's location, Traverse City is pleasant and warm in the Summer & Fall months, but cold and depressing in the Winter. There is a major influx of tourists in the Summer, so I would recommend living just outside of town and biking or walking as much as one can. Traffic is truly hideous in the Summer, but there are several lovely biking/walking trails throughout the city, Read More

Not Friendly in Traverse City - 10/12/2007
I agree with the above writer about traverse city. I go there regularly because of family, (about 4 times a year) and we dread it. We have been treated so poorly there because we are tourists. If it were'nt for the tourists, there would be no good restaurants or other attractions. From the drivers on the road, to store clerks, and waitresses. It is really an unwelcoming feeling.
Id rather be in the big city where people treat you like a person instead of a headache. I would never live in traverse city and would never go there if we did'nt have Read More

Absolutely beautiful!! - 9/18/2007
T.C. is so beautiful and there is so much to do and see! I'm glad the winters are rough otherwise everyone would want to live Read More

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