Six Michigan cities land spots on U.S. News 150 best cities to live in the nation

The Mitten State may be #1 in our hearts, but just six Michigan cities landed on the U.S. News & World Report's ranking of the 150 best places to live in the nation.

By now, it comes as no surprise that Ann Arbor — often lauded for its vivacious cultural scene and charming historic architecture — ranked near the top, sitting at an impressive spot at 14. Grand Rapids also made the state proud with a spot at 20, noted for its craft brewery secene and grand public art. The U.S. News graded each city based on a number of criteria including crime rates, quality of education and general well-being.

Here's the breakdown of each Michigan city that, according to carefully analyzed statistics, anyone would be lucky to live in:

Ann Arbor, No. 14

Overall, Ann Arbor scored a 6.7 out of 10 for the magazine's quality of life score, earning its spot at 14 out of the 150 cities that made it to the list. The city is also ranked 8th best city to retire in the nation, according to the magazine, and No. 1 for best place to live in Michigan and the top spot for best place to live for the best quality of life in the country.

The magazine noted the natural beauty surrounding the city's bustling downtown filled with backpack-laden students and its proximity to Detroit. Also highlighted are the low crime rates, diverse job market and high walkability.

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Grand Rapids, No. 20

Grand Rapids secured a spot at #20 for its affordable housing, lively outdoor recreational activities and a robust job market. The magazine noted that the city is attracting college students and young families with its lively cultural scene and a craft brewery scene that could fill the Grand River.

"Midwest friendliness is no exaggeration in Grand Rapids, which, despite being the second-largest metro area in Michigan, exudes small-town warmth," the magazine's ode to Grand Rapids reads. "Walk down almost any residential street in Grand Rapids, and you'll often be met with a wave and a 'hello' from people caring for their lawns or hanging out on porches."

Lansing, No. 83

The state capital landed a humble spot on the list for its range: A center of democracy one minute, then an open rolling field then next. Lansing residents have a healthy mix of job options, the magazine highlights, and a sporting hub that leaves the biggest Sparty fan feeling spoiled.

"The capital area, so named because Lansing has been Michigan's center of government since the late 19th century, also includes large cities like East Lansing and Grand Ledge and smaller, more rural communities like Mason and Williamston," the magazine's overview of Lansing reads. "Many Lansing residents work in state government offices, while others still punch in and out at the automobile plants that produce some of the country's most popular cars and trucks."

Kalamazoo, No. 90

Kalamazoo was also ranked No. 4 of best places to live in Michigan and the 10th-most dangerous city to live in the nation — a marker of this city's range.

Kalamazoo's theaters, museums and live music venues underscore its lively cultural scene, the magazine notes, and its chili cook-offs and vintage fairs make it "as fun and quirky as its unusual name suggests."

Detroit, No. 114

Detroit is sitting "on the edge of a renaissance," the magazine reads, a sentence that likely strikes a chord for many Detroiters scarred from a history of misunderstanding and judgement. Those in and around the city know there are new businesses and restaurants opening up shop nearly every week, and the so-called renaissance is — and has been — upon us.

While the low ranking is rather insulting, the magazine notes the city's history and culture, drawing much from the past with hardly any highlights from the present.

More: Northern Lights Lounge in Detroit to reopen after 3 years

Flint, No. 130

Near the bottom of the list comes Flint, highlighted for its humble cost of living and arts community. With its vibrant festival scene and one of the largest art museums in the state, Flint is home to a diverse population of young families and retirees.

The magazine chronicled Flint's beginning as a lumbering hub that paved the way for the city to become a major player in the automotive field.

"Going through hardships like GM closing area plants over the years and the 2014 water crisis, the Flint community has a history of rallying together during tough times," the magazine's highlight on Flint reads. "There is a strong sense of pride from Flint residents. Whether it’s standing together as a neighborhood to combat crime or helping those in need, the Flint community works together to make it a better area to live in."

mmarini@freepress.com

This article originally appeared on Detroit Free Press: These 6 Michigan cities are among the best cities to live in the U.S.