Big news for our hometown: Midland, Michigan was just ranked the #1 place to retire in the entire U.S., according to U.S. News & World Report’s 2025 Best Places to Retire list.
That recognition puts Midland — and the greater Tri-Cities region including Saginaw and Bay City — squarely on the map for retirees and anyone planning their “forever home.” It’s confirmation of what locals have known all along: this is a community built on quality of life, safety, and connection.
So what does that mean for you if you’re ready to make a move? Let’s break down the three main paths to making Midland home — and how to approach each one affordably without sacrificing quality or craftsmanship.
Why Midland Ranked #1
U.S. News analyzed more than 850 cities this year, weighing affordability, quality of life, healthcare access, and tax friendliness for retirees. Midland came out on top for its strong community feel, clean environment, reasonable cost of living, and access to recreation and medical care.
The report also noted Midland’s growing appeal to active retirees — those who want the benefits of a smaller community while staying connected to culture, sports, and the outdoors. From the Pere Marquette Rail Trail to the Midland Center for the Arts and Dow Gardens, this area offers the right balance of calm and connection.
Build New
The clean-slate approach. Building new lets you design exactly what fits your next chapter — main-floor living, barrier-free layouts, efficient heating and cooling, and timeless finishes that won’t need constant upkeep.
How to make it affordable:
Right-sized design: Focus square footage where it matters — living areas, kitchen, and primary suite — and simplify spaces you don’t use daily.
Smart material choices: Products like LP SmartSide, Zip-R sheathing, and Pella Lifestyle windows deliver long-term durability and energy savings without forcing cuts in other areas.
Plan early: With the potential for increased local demand after the U.S. News announcement, early planning secures pricing, design time, and a slot on our build schedule.
Buy Existing
Buying can be a smart move when you find a solid home in the right neighborhood. Midland, Saginaw, and Bay City still offer homes priced near or below the national average — leaving room in the budget to make it your own.
Our advice:
Look for homes with good structure — roof, windows, and foundation. Newer HVAC systems and water heaters are also a big plus, saving you the cost and disruption of replacing them right after purchase.
Spend renovation dollars where you’ll feel it most — kitchens, bathrooms, insulation, and comfort systems that make everyday living easier.
We can help with a “buy + remodel” approach: purchase a home you love for its location, then let us update it for energy efficiency, modern comfort, and long-term durability.
Renovate or Downsize
If you already live here and love your neighborhood, renovating might be the best way to “retire in place.” Small, strategic changes can make a big impact on daily comfort.
High-impact updates for aging-in-place:
Zero-step entries, wider doorways, lever handles, and walk-in showers
Energy upgrades like Rockwool insulation, high-performance windows, and efficient HVAC systems
Simplified, low-maintenance exteriors such as LP SmartSide, Celect composite siding, or other premium claddings that eliminate the need for repainting or refinishing every few years
Our process emphasizes long-term durability and cost-effective improvements, balancing premium materials with smart budgeting to protect your home’s value and keep maintenance low for decades to come.
Building for What’s Next
Retirement today doesn’t necessarily mean slowing down — in fact, for many people, it’s busier than working life. The difference is choosing how to spend your time. Building or renovating the right home gives you freedom, comfort, and peace of mind for the years ahead.
Whether it’s a new build, a well-planned remodel, or transforming a recently purchased home, our focus is on creating spaces that support the life you want to live next.
At Benner Builders, we prioritize craftsmanship, transparency, and a clear process. Using Buildertrend project management and trusted local trade partners, we keep every stage organized, documented, and communicated — from design to final walkthrough.
Ready to Start Your Next Chapter?
If you’re planning to retire to Midland, Saginaw, or Bay City, we’d love to help you find the right path:
Build: Custom, efficient, and designed around your lifestyle
Buy + Remodel: The best of both worlds — location and personalization
Renovate: Update the home you love for lasting comfort and convenience
We’ll help you compare budgets, timelines, and the most practical route for your goals.
Midland may be #1 in the rankings, but for us, it’s always been home. Let’s make it the place you’ll love living in — for this chapter and the next.
Benner Builders: Family-Forward, Detail-Driven Renovation & Builder in Midland, Michigan.
Ready to start the conversation?
Ready to start planning your new space? Reach out through our Contact form, and let’s discuss how we can bring your vision to life!
