A less congested alternative to Traverse City
Cadillac is in the "up north" part of Michigan — a region known for its lakes, forests and quiet beauty. Cadillac attracts tourists for summer boating or wintertime skiing, and a strong industrial sector supports a year-round population. “I always say we are half a tourist town, half a year-round community,” says John Wallace, the city’s community development director. “People love Traverse City, but it keeps getting more and more crowded. Cadillac is a less congested alternative with a small-town charm and plenty of outdoor attractions.” With just over 10,000 residents, it makes it the second most populated city in northern Michigan behind Traverse City. Cadillac’s population has stayed relatively stable for the past 20 years.
Cadillac’s vintage housing market is due for an upgrade
Most developments in Cadillac are around the lake at the center of town. The median home price is $230,000, just under the state’s median of $260,000. “Most of our housing was built from 1900 to 2000, so we have a good cross-section of housing styles,” Wallace says. “Neighborhoods are unique — there aren’t really any look-alike subdivisions.” There are some modern condo units downtown, and the city is planning several new housing developments. “People want to move and live here, but sometimes there just isn’t enough inventory,” Wallace says.
Fishing lakes and a wintertime ski resort
Cadillac's outdoor attractions and recreational opportunities are one of the biggest draws. Lake Cadillac and Lake Mitchell are used for boating, paddleboarding and fishing. A scenic canal connects the lakes and sit around Mitchell State Park, which has campgrounds and public beaches. Cadillac is also known for its trails — including off-roading, snowmobiling and hiking. The city is the terminal point of the White Pine Trail, which stretches 92 miles south to Grand Rapids. There are also nine different golf courses within a 20-mile radius of downtown.
Caberfae Peaks is a popular skiing and snowboarding destination located just 15 miles away from Cadillac. It was one of the first ski resorts in the country and offers some of the most affordable rates in Michigan. With 34 slopes of varying difficulty, there are opportunities for all skill levels.
Getting together in downtown Cadillac
The downtown district is situated on the banks of Lake Cadillac and lined with vintage storefronts. “A lot of our downtown businesses are mom-and-pop stores,” Wallace says. Downtown is also a social district — meaning public alcohol consumption is allowed. The centerpiece of the district is Cadillac Commons, a lakeside park with walking trails, a seasonal splash pad, an outdoor concert pavilion and a year-round farmers market. “The city spent quite a bit on Cadillac Commons, and it has been really successful in attracting people to downtown. It brings a lot of warmth to the community,” Wallace says.
Cadillac’s festivals celebrate local artisans and the Fourth of July
The Fourth of July is celebrated annually with a festival that includes a 5K race, a classic car show and fireworks over the water. Cadillac's Festival of the Arts is a two-day event highlighting fine arts, crafts and unique creations by local artists. In the fall, the Cadillac Beer Festival draws over 1,500 attendees to taste local brews and listen to live music. “There’s always something going on here," says Marci Hensley, the marketing & administrative assistant with Cadillac Area Visitors Bureau. “From art festivals to local entertainment, such as karaoke or trivia nights every Wednesday, Thursday and Friday.”
Rock ‘n’ roll history was made at Cadillac High
Cadillac Area Public Schools scores a B-minus grade from Niche. The local Cadillac High School's claim to fame is its association with the rock band KISS. In 1975, the football coach started a tradition of playing KISS songs before games, which led the Vikings to a winning streak. When KISS heard about their impact, they staged a surprise performance at the school’s homecoming dance. After the concert, a helicopter swooped in to take the band on a rockstar exit, and they left in a shower of pamphlets that rained down on the football field, reading: “Cadillac High — KISS loves you.” To this day, a monument stands outside the high school, commemorating the moment. “It’s still a big part of Cadillac’s culture,” Hensley says. “This year, we are working to plan a celebration for the concert's 50th anniversary.”
Big city amenities in Traverse City and Grand Rapids
The closest major cities are Traverse City, 50 miles northwest and Grand Rapids, 95 miles south. U.S. Route 131 runs through Cadillac, the fastest route to larger cities. The closest commercial airport is the Cherry Capital Airport in Traverse City. Cadillac Hospital on Hobart Street is a 49-bed facility.
Important to know
According to the Michigan State Police’s Crime Dashboard, Cadillac's overall crime rates are slightly higher than the state average. However, they’ve been on a downward trend since 2021.
Winters are long, with temperatures regularly dropping below freezing from November to April. Snowfall averages 71 inches annually.
Properties on well water systems may need to get the water tested for PFAS, a chemical contaminant that has been found in Cadillac’s groundwater. The contamination came from two local manufacturing sites, cleaned up as part of the Environmental Protection Agency’s Superfund project. Most homes use municipal water, which has always been PFAS-free.
Written By
Catherine Lashley
