The Great Lakes

Experience the vibrant Great Lakes region, where bustling cities, majestic waters, and welcoming communities unite.

The Great Lakes region, with its majestic freshwater seas, offers a life closely tied to the rhythm of the water. Cities like Chicago, Detroit, and Cleveland are at the heart of America’s industrial legacy, yet they’re surrounded by natural beauty and the lakes’ recreational opportunities.

This area is characterized by its strong work ethic, rich cultural diversity, and a deep appreciation for the arts and education. The changing seasons offer a dramatic backdrop to life here, from vibrant autumns and snowy winters to blossoming springs and warm summers.

Community and family life are central, with a sense of belonging that ties residents closely to their neighborhoods. The Great Lakes region offers a fulfilling and balanced lifestyle for those who love the contrast of urban energy and natural tranquility.

Total Population

47097779

Households

18,685,564

Land Area sqmi

242,973

Explore Great Lakes States

Learn more about living in each unique Great Lakes state

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Find Your Place in The Great Lakes

The top cities, towns, and metros in categories movers care about

Michigan

Barton Hills village

Ohio

Concorde Hills

Illinois

Winnetka village

Ohio

Coldstream

Illinois

Kenilworth village

Wisconsin

Oconomowoc Lake village

Median Household Income

65,345

US Average $74,580

Cost of Living Score

92.42

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The Best Places For Your Lifestyle

The best cities and towns for families, retirees, and singles

Min Hourly Wage

9.13

Living Wage

16.46

Moving advice

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Compare The Cost of Living in The Great Lakes

What’s the true cost to live in a Great Lakes states
#8

Indiana

Cost of Living Index 89.9

Minimum Hourly Wage $7.25

Living Wage $15.79

#12

Ohio

Cost of Living Index 91.9

Minimum Hourly Wage $9.3

Living Wage $15.61

#14

Michigan

Cost of Living Index 92.2

Minimum Hourly Wage $9.87

Living Wage $16.36

#17

Illinois

Cost of Living Index 92.6

Minimum Hourly Wage $12

Living Wage $18.16

#23

Wisconsin

Cost of Living Index 95.5

Minimum Hourly Wage $7.25

Living Wage $16.4

Top Rated Schools

Find where students are excelling in The Great Lakes

A+

A+

A+

A+

A+

A+

A+

A+

C-

B-

C+

B-

B+

B

B-

C+

School Districts

Find the best school districts in the Great Lakes states

City Of Chicago299 School District

Schools

646

Students

329,836

Teacher Ratio

14.47

Milwaukee School District

Schools

156

Students

69,115

Teacher Ratio

16.19

Columbus City School District

Schools

117

Students

45,547

Teacher Ratio

14.52

Detroit Public Schools Community District School District

Schools

110

Students

48,536

Teacher Ratio

15.44

Cleveland Municipal School District

Schools

96

Students

35,319

Teacher Ratio

14.5

Cincinnati Public School District

Schools

65

Students

35,820

Teacher Ratio

17.87

Sd U-46 School District

Schools

58

Students

35,864

Teacher Ratio

14.79

Indianapolis Public School District

Schools

57

Students

22,115

Teacher Ratio

13.35

Toledo City School District

Schools

57

Students

22,049

Teacher Ratio

14.49

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