"...Lake Michigan, our private ocean. This is why we endure Ludington winters." - Ludington Author George Dila
With just a touch over 8,000 residents, Ludington is an idyllic community on the very edge of Lake Michigan. This grand body of water is the second largest of the Great Lakes, and the only one of the five to be located entirely within the United States. Thanks to Ludington's prime location, water-related recreation options abound, including fishing, boating, and miles of beach for swimming. Better still, an active group of musicians, artists, and writers ensure that there are endless opportunities to feed the soul.
Whether you are moving to Ludington for a job in local industry, or you want to live in a community that offers extensive support for its artists, you will find that getting here is fast and easy
"...Lake Michigan, our private ocean. This is why we endure Ludington winters." - Ludington Author George Dila
With just a touch over 8,000 residents, Ludington is an idyllic community on the very edge of Lake Michigan. This grand body of water is the second largest of the Great Lakes, and the only one of the five to be located entirely within the United States. Thanks to Ludington's prime location, water-related recreation options abound, including fishing, boating, and miles of beach for swimming. Better still, an active group of musicians, artists, and writers ensure that there are endless opportunities to feed the soul.
Moving to Ludington
Whether you are moving to Ludington for a job in local industry, or you want to live in a community that offers extensive support for its artists, you will find that getting here is fast and easy. Apartment rentals in Ludington are plentiful, and prices are reasonable. Owners tend to require only a basic application, a month's rent, and a security deposit before you move in. Ludington has a solid, well-maintained infrastructure, and getting your utilities and services up and running takes just a day or two.
Ludington Neighborhoods
Downtown: The business district of Ludington has a lot going on, as city officials work to make it an attractive tourist destination, as well as a lucrative home for commerce. Living here means easy access to the arts, entertainment, dining, and shopping. Apartment rentals are less expensive than in other Ludington neighborhoods, and most can be found in buildings with just two or three units. Those that prefer to rent a single-family home will find plenty of choices with one to three bedrooms.
Hamlin Lake: The northernmost section of Ludington encompasses most of Hamlin Lake, so you can find an apartment with a waterfront view if you are interested. Prices are a little higher than in downtown Ludington, perhaps because of the area's rural feel and the large amount of space available with home rentals. There are plenty of properties available, including small and medium-sized single family homes and mobile homes.
Buttersville/Wiley: The southernmost neighborhood of Ludington is dotted with a number of small lakes that are lovely additions to the massive Lake Michigan. Some of these include Bass Lake and North Oxbow Lake. Prices are roughly even when compared to the Hamlin Lake neighborhood, and a little higher than you find in Ludington's downtown. Homes are available in all sizes, and many have a large section of land as well.
Living in Ludington
Getting around Ludington and to neighboring states is easier than you would expect, given the vast body of water along the city's west border. US Route 10 runs from Bay City, Michigan, all the way to West Fargo, North Dakota, despite the fact that Lake Michigan is in the way. This is accomplished by a ferry that provides service from Ludington to Manitowoc, Wisconsin, where you can then continue on your westward journey. Better still, Ludington is a planned stop on US Bicycle Route 20, which will offer cyclists safe travel from Marine City, Michigan, to the Oregon Coast. Folks that need to get around town and prefer a car-free option can also use the low-cost Ludington Mass Transit Authority buses.
History buffs and lighthouse lovers will find plenty to enjoy in Ludington, where there are three historic lighthouses that offer regular tours. These include the North Breakwater Light, the Big Sable Lighthouse, and the Little Sable Lighthouse. Those that prefer to be in a boat rather than atop a lighthouse tower can launch just about any sort of vessel at the Loomis Street Boat Launch or the launch at Copeyon Park.
For more outdoor fun, check out Waterfront Park, home to the Ludington Sculpture Park. Summer concerts take place in the Waterfront Park band shell, and this city treasure is the site of festivals throughout the year. Stearns Beach has a long stretch of beautifully maintained white sand beach, and just a bit north is Cartier Park, ideal for camping and hiking.
Ludington weather is everything you could hope for, with a definitive change of seasons marked by a variety of celebrations and festivals. Winters are cold - but not too cold - with average temperatures in the high 20s. Summers are hot - but not too hot - with average temperatures in the mid-70s.
There is an event, celebration, or festival to look forward to nearly every month of the year. Beginning on January 1st with the NYE Resolution 5K Run and ending with the Winter Solstice Celebration and the Ludington New Year's Eve Ball Drop in December, you will find that getting to know your neighbors and having a great time is easy to do in Ludington.
