in Calhoun County

Calhoun county is the epitome of small-town living meets big city edge, where working, playing, and living come together seamlessly. Our community is full of motivated individuals who relish local events, shops, dining, and initiatives. When you’re not out enjoying the town’s offerings, take advantage of the outdoor spaces provided by our state parks, rivers, trails, and the zoo. Looking to get involved in your community and make a difference? Our county is home to several non-profit organizations looking for individuals like you to truly make a mark on where we live.

Centrally located between Detroit and Chicago, Battle Creek provides convenient transportation access to true Michigan splendor: Interstate 94 connects with Interstate 69 just 16 miles east; U.S. 131 is 20 miles west; and I-80/90 is approximately 50 miles south. If nature calls to you, beautiful Lake Michigan shores are just over an hour away. Our location ensures that you can not only enjoy what is right in your backyard, but all that Michigan has to offer in an affordable, ever-innovating community.

Calhoun County, Michigan

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Thrive in Calhoun County

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Calhoun County is affordable compared to the national average, with Battle Creek having a Cost-of-Living Index of 75.9 compared to the surrounding areas, which have an index of 92. Furthermore, over a third of households in Battle Creek earn more than the national average annually. Whether you choose to live in the heart of downtown or in the neighboring suburbs, you’ll be living in a community that values success, passion, and creativity.

Battle Creek is home to many excellent educational options, including public, private, charter, and parochial schools. Additionally, there are more than a dozen high-quality higher education institutions within a 50-mile radius. Graduates of Battle Creek Public Schools are eligible for the Bearcat Advantage program, which covers up to 100% of tuition and mandatory fees at eligible four-year universities or colleges in Michigan for eligible BCPS graduates. Alternatively, graduates can choose to attend one of nearly 100 Historically Black Colleges or Universities (HBCUs) across the United States.

Calhoun County is the perfect place to find exciting career prospects and stay close to your roots. Fort Custer industrial park, one of the best industrial parks in the Midwest and the country, is home to over 80 companies and 13,000 employees. Key industries such as aviation, healthcare, food & beverage, and hospitality are also located in the region. There are various workforce development agencies and organizations committed to advancing your career, such as Kellogg Community College and the Regional Manufacturing Technology Center (RMTC). In addition, Grand Valley State University is located in downtown Battle Creek, providing access to quality higher education right in our backyard. We house unique education and development programs that promote the growth of our greatest resource – our people.

Experience the best of community living by making your home here. Our community is dedicated to providing its residents with unparalleled amenities, such as art galleries, farmers markets, linear parks, breweries, coffee shops, restaurants, and a world-class casino. There’s something for everyone here, and we take pride in hosting remarkable events throughout the year, including outdoor concerts, art walks, air shows, farmer’s markets, and food festivals. Residents who enjoy sports or cultural events can catch a game with the Battle Creek Battle Jacks – or jump in on the action at one of several sports fields.

For those seeking outdoor adventure, Battle Creek is home to both the Battle Creek River and Kalamazoo River, offering kayaking, fishing, and river trails. Our 26-mile Linear Park is perfect for joggers, watching for wildlife, and a breath of fresh air. There are also 600 acres of parkland within city limits, which includes the Fort Custer Recreation Area, a 3,033-acre state park. We are proud to be home to the Binder Park Zoo, which spans over 433 acres – larger than the Cleveland Zoo, Detroit Zoo, or San Diego Zoo – and home to over 140 species of animals.

News from Calhoun County

See Binder Park Zoo’s Adorable New Zebra Foal and Its Proud Mom

See Binder Park Zoo’s Adorable New Zebra Foal and Its Proud Mom

Binder Park Zoo has welcomed a new addition to its family of zebras. Born July 15, the unnamed foal is the first-born of mother Debbie, the zoo's last foal that was born in 2018, according to Marketing Manager Allie Stoddard. Zookeepers are expected to announce the...

Contact

Heather Ignash

Heather Ignash

Economic Development Specialist

Battle Creek Unlimited

ignash@bcunlimited.org