8 Reasons To Drop Everything And Move To This One Michigan City

Michigan is finally starting to thaw out after a freakishly chilly start to spring. And that change in temps suddenly opens up a whole new world of possibilities. Like, for example, have you ever just wanted to pack your bags and move someplace new and exciting ASAP?

We know we get that itch every now and then. So it got us to thinking...if pesky things like the climate weren't in the picture, where would we love to move to in the Great Lakes State? That's when we settled on Marquette. Some may say, hey, why Marquette? Well, let's count the ways that this UP town of about 20,000 is the ideal place. Cost of living is about 10 percent lower than the national average, and it's home to Northern Michigan University - making this place ideal whether you're headed toward retirement and need to stretch those dollars or you're a young co-ed, looking for a fun place to pursue your undergraduate degree.

On top of those very practical clues about Marquette, we've got eight other more specific reasons why you should call this Upper Peninsula city home.

1. You have full access to the rugged beauty that is the UP.

2. Where you can partake in countless mountain biking routes. The Noquemanon Trail Network, for example, is a network of trails that run right through the city.

3. And hiking...

Check out Sugarloaf Mountain on weekends, where you can climb a huge, wooden staircase to catch spectacular views.

4. Or even sailing...

Every Wednesday, Fleet 35 sails on the Lake Superior on the Bay of Marquette and each year Marquette hosts the Ensign National Championship Regatta sailing competition.

5. At the same time, you're still close enough to the bustling of a thriving little city so you're not totally lost in the woods.

6. The historic downtown is quite walkable...

7. And there are ample opportunities for shopping or dining in unique boutiques and eateries.

Pictured here, Lagniappe, a New Orleans-inspired Cajun restaurant that some consider one of the best dining establishments in the state.

8. Not to mention the architecture...

The majestic sandstone buildings that line the streets are a reminder that this place is an important part of the state's success. Pictured here, the 1904-constructed Marquette County Courthouse, which on the National Register of Historic Places.

If these aren't reason enough to consider relocating to this special town, we don't know what to say. Tell us though, why do you love Marquette?