Thumb Region
Thumbs Up for a Balanced Lifestyle
Encompassing cities from Owosso to Flint, to Frankenmuth and Port Huron, Michigan’s “thumb region” is renowned for its smaller, family-friendly communities that offer a high quality of life with an emphasis on local culture. Here, you’ll find a cost of living that is lower than other areas of Michigan, with significantly less out-of-pocket expenses than the national average. The area also boasts a low crime rate and affordable properties, particularly in the interior, while providing access to 140 miles of beautiful coastline along Lake Huron. Often referred to as Michigan’s “thumb-coast,” this region and is also known as the Maritime Capital of the Great Lakes with unique sites such as the Huron Lightship and the Great Lakes Maritime Center. The location also provides access to Ontario, Canada via the Blue Water Bridge one of Michigan’s international border crossings.
If you’re looking for a more laid-back lifestyle (yet not far from Detroit or Lansing) where you can build a career in professional services, advanced manufacturing, clean energy and more, Michigan’s thumb region will point you in the right direction.
Overflowing with Opportunity
Your next opportunity in manufacturing, agriculture, tech and more is in Michigan — and the Michigan Career Portal can help you identify career and education opportunities to help you achieve your dreams.
Explore Flint and Genesee Area
Nestled in the heart of Michigan, the Flint and Genesee County area is an accommodating locale for everyone. From our parks and beaches, to our museums and entertainment venues, there’s always something to do!
Michigan’s Thumb Region by the Numbers
Average Home Price in Flint and Genesee County is 61% Lower than the National Average
Make Your Move in Flint and GeneseeLower Overall Cost of Living than the National Average (Port Austin)
Sperling’s Best Places, 2023Dive Deeper
Learn More About Thumb Region
- Working Here
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A Magnet for Opportunity
Michigan’s Thumb Region offers a plethora of job opportunities, whether you’re a financial analyst, an experienced marketer, a skilled worker or an entrepreneur. Cities in the interior of the region such as Sandusky and Marlette are home to several employers in professional services and advanced manufacturing industries. And with an abundance of growing downtowns in cities such as Port Huron and Bay City, the region is a prime candidate for anyone looking to turn an idea into a reality, bolstered by inexpensive properties and communities that welcome new local businesses.
All the Features Without the Fuss
The lifestyle in Michigan’s Thumb Region offers a unique blend of small-town charm and modern amenities. While the largest city, Port Huron, boasts a population of nearly 30,000, other cities and towns in the area have populations in the thousands — creating a close-knit community atmosphere. Plus, with an overall cost of living that sits approximately 20% lower than the national average, the living is as affordable as it is agreeable in cities like Port Austin and Marlette. Colleges like St. Clair Community College — known for its highly ranked nursing program — fuel the vitality of the region’s industries. Access to top-notch healthcare is also readily available at hospitals like McKenzie Health in Sandusky, while modern amenities such as fiber optic internet connectivity, the nearby Detroit Metro Airport and robust emergency services are widespread throughout the region.
An Easygoing Destination for Fun
If you’re looking to get away from the bustle while remaining close to big city amenities, Michigan’s Thumb Region is just the place. Filled with laid-back, small-town experiences and an abundance of outdoor recreation at state parks like Port Crescent State Park and Albert E. Sleeper State Park, there’s always an excuse to enjoy nature’s beauty here. The city of Port Huron stands out for its robust parks and family-friendly recreation, with a skate park, two Lake Huron beaches and a unique miniature city that are sure to spark wonder for the whole family. In Frankenmuth, find authentic Bavarian tradition and culture alongside a plethora of adult and youth leagues that’s perfect for sports enthusiasts. And if you’re a fan of maritime life, you’ll find the region’s history fascinating, whether you’re visiting the Saginaw Valley Naval Ship Museum or one of the many coastal beacons like the Fort Gratiot lighthouse, the oldest in the state.
Contact Us
Brianna Mosier
Director of Organizational Development Flint & Genesee Group (810) 600 - 1451 bmosier@flintandgenesee.orgFeatured Programs
- Resources & Business Support
- Employer & Jobseeker Resources
- Find a Job
I-69 Thumb Region
Covering seven counties in eastern Michigan, the I-69 Thumb Region’s website provides business resources, talent opportunities and information on accelerators and other services as well as helpful resources on quality of life in the Thumb Region.
GST Michigan Works!
GST Michigan Works! is one of 16 Michigan Works! agencies across the State of Michigan operating workforce development programs designed to assist employers in finding skilled workers and jobseekers prepare for, find and retain employment.
Pure Michigan Talent Connect
Pure Michigan Talent Connect lists jobs and career opportunities in Michigan. It is a tool connecting Michigan’s job seekers and employers, and serves as a central hub linking all public and private stakeholders who support Michigan’s workforce. Pure Michigan Talent Connect serves as the state’s labor exchange system.
What’s Up in Michigan?
Stay up to date with the latest news from Michigan.
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