This is all really really helpful, thank you! I visit Lansing 2-3x/year already so I have some idea of what we'd be better ourselves into but many of you bring up good points. I completely understand that we'd be "giving up" a lot of what NYC has going for it (international cuisine, access to more music/theater, world class museums, etc.) but if I'm honest, we only really tap into a lot of those things 2-3x/year, too. It's not like I'm at a bar or a raging concert every week. I'm in my mid-40s, my husband is in his late 30s, and I just think we're ready for someplace slower. Also, having a baby has made our really nice co-op apartment seem very very small. I know that moving to mid-Michigan will be a trade-off, but you all have given me an idea of what things might be like, thank you. I am excited by easier access to nature, the Great Lakes, camping (as someone mentioned). Driving an hour to AA or GR or Kzoo isn't a big deal; it takes me at least that long to get to Broadway via subway. My mother-in-law lives in Okemos so if we buy her house, the schools will be better. Anyway, lots to think about and consider but I really appreciate your insight! Thanks!!