Charlevoix, Michigan
What It Is Like to Retire in Charlevoix
Charlevoix, Michigan, referred to here as “Charlevoix the Beautiful”, is an old seasonal town in northwest Michigan. A popular '''retirement community''' for active adults, Charlevoix is located on an isthmus between Lake Michigan and Round Lake, adjacent to the shores of Lake Charlevoix. Photo of canal courtesy of Wikipedia, photo of Chicago Club courtesy of Wikipedia and Bobak Because of its location and the fact that it is one of Lake Michigan’s best natural harbors, a great deal of commercial and recreational boat traffic passes through here. Its population swells from about 3,000 people to 30,000 in the summer, as vacationers and active adults 55+ come here for the fishing, boating, and natural beauty. The Chesapeake and Ohio Railroad used to run through the area. Now that the track has been removed between Charlevoix and Petoskey, the resulting rail trails along Lake Michigan have made the area a mecca for bicyclists and cross country skiers. 23 miles of the trail are continuous and paved. The Little Traverse Wheelway once again offers trail lovers a great view of Little Traverse Bay from Charlevoix to Petoskey and on to Harbor Springs. The "Bike Path" is one of the country's top "Rails to Trails" successes. Charlevoix is the seat of Charlevoix County. For a list of profiles on over 900 cities and towns go to retirement community reviews Here is Topretirements.com Mini-Guide to Retirement in Michigan
Where to Retire in Charlevoix and Home Prices
Those seeking a retirement community here have the opportunity to live on or near the water due to the ample coastline provided by 3 lakes and a river. According to Zillow.com the median list price of a home in Charlevoix in mid-2023, was $377,582. There are homes offered for far higher prices on the water or in the top neighborhoods.
What Is Special about Charlevoix
• The Little Traverse Wheelway (bike path) goes 24 miles along Little Traverse Bay from Charlevoix to Harbor Springs • Venetian festival • Apple Festival • Waterfront art fair • Nature Trails at Mt. McSauba Preserve • Fantastic boating from the best natural harbor on Lake Michigan • Ernest Hemingway’s Nick Adams stories were set in nearby Petoskey • Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore • Beaver Island (30 minute ferry ride) • Many excellent golf courses
What Is Not Special about Charlevoix
It's cold in the winter. It is a small town far from anywhere.
Who Will Like Retirement in Charlevoix
Charlevoix draws in active adults 55 plus who are interested in living in a small town that offers unusual beauty, access to the water, and outdoor activities like hiking and biking.
Local Economy Is Driven by
Tourism and vacation homes are the key to the Charlevoix economy.
Climate and Physical Environment
Charlevoix is located on an isthmus in northwest Michigan where Lake Charlevoix's short Round Lake/Pine River complex flows into Lake Michigan.
Restaurants & Cultural Scene
Charlevoix has a number of festivals throughout the year, such as the harvest festival. There are newspapers in the area, as well as a triplex movie theatre.
Crime
Crime is slightly below the U.S. average.
Medical facilities
Charlevoix Area Hospital
Transportation
Pellston Regional Airport of Emmet County is 38 miles. Many people get around town on a bike, and the bike path going to Petoskey and Harbor Springs is spectacular. Charlevoix is a very walkable community.
Comments on "Charlevoix"
STEPHANIE BOTTINE says:
please forward more information about this community. Thank you.
Nancy Brewer says:
I’m interested in a retirement community.