MBS Tower (MBS)

📍 About MBS & the Tri-Cities

MBS International Airport is located between Midland, Bay City, and Saginaw — the Tri-Cities region of central Michigan. It’s a quiet, affordable area with access to lakes, parks, and universities. With a small-town feel, low commute times, and year-round outdoor recreation, it’s a great place for singles or families alike.

🏡 Where to Live

Singles & Couples

• Midland – Clean, walkable, young professionals and Dow HQ
• Bay City – Waterfront, artsy, breweries, more affordable
• Saginaw Township – Quiet and suburban

Families

• Freeland – Great schools, very close to MBS
• Midland – Top-rated public schools, parks
• Auburn – Small-town charm between Midland & Bay City
• Thomas Township – Quiet, family-oriented, safe

🚗 Commute Times to MBS

• 5–15 min: Freeland, Auburn, Saginaw Township
• 15–25 min: Midland, Bay City, Thomas Township
• 25–35 min: Essexville, Hemlock

🎓 Top School Districts

• Freeland Community School District – A-rated, very popular
• Midland Public Schools – High graduation rate, strong academics
• Swan Valley Schools (Thomas Twp) – Great small district

🧳 Things to Do – Within 2 Hours, Year-Round

🌲 Outdoor Activities

• Dow Gardens: Botanical gardens in Midland
• Chippewa Nature Center: Trails, kayaking, nature exhibits
• Bay City State Park: Beach on Saginaw Bay, hiking, birding
• Fishing & Boating: Saginaw River, Tittabawassee River

🏛️ Indoor & Cultural

• Midland Center for the Arts: Museum + performing arts
• Bay City Antiques & Art Fairs: Waterfront events
• Dow Diamond: Minor league baseball (Great Lakes Loons)
• Birch Run Outlets & Frankenmuth: German-themed town with shopping and food

✈️ Nearby Airports

• MBS International Airport (MBS): On-site tower, commercial flights
• Bishop International Airport (FNT – Flint): ~1 hour
• Detroit Metro (DTW): ~2 hours for major flights

🧭 Helpful Resources for Newcomers

• City of Midland
• Bay City
• Saginaw Township
• Freeland Area Chamber
• Great Lakes Bay Regional CVB

🛡️ Crime & Safety + Town Websites

• Freeland & Midland: Very low crime, safe for families
• Saginaw Township: Suburban and generally safe
• Bay City: Mixed areas — waterfront historic districts are desirable

🔗 Town Websites

• Midland, MI
• Bay City, MI
• Freeland, MI
• Thomas Township, MI
• Saginaw Township, MI

💰 Cost of Living

• Median home price: ~$175,000–$240,000 depending on city
• 1-bedroom rent: ~$800–$1,100/month
• Groceries: Slightly below national average – Milk ~$2.90, Eggs ~$2.50
• Gas: ~$3.40/gallon
• Utilities: ~$150–$200/month
• Taxes: Michigan income tax ~4.25%

🌆 Neighborhood Highlights

• Midland Center: Walkable shops, restaurants, arts
• Bay City Downtown: Waterfront dining, antique stores
• Freeland Area: Quiet, new subdivisions, great schools

☀️ Seasonal Weather

• Winter: Cold and snowy — snow tires recommended
• Spring: Cool, rainy, early blooms in May
• Summer: Mild to warm, lakes nearby for weekend trips
• Fall: Beautiful foliage, crisp air, light jackets

🚇 Public Transportation & Traffic

• Public transit: Limited to Dial-A-Ride and some bus services
• Most residents drive — easy parking, minimal congestion
• Traffic: Light throughout Tri-Cities

🏥 Healthcare & Urgent Care

• MyMichigan Medical Center – Midland
• McLaren Bay Region – Bay City
• Covenant HealthCare – Saginaw
• Urgent care: Great Lakes Bay Health, WellNow, MedExpress

🫂 Social Life & Community

• Young professionals: Brewery events, music nights, art walks
• Families: Sports leagues, splash pads, playgrounds
• Community orgs: Churches, Rotary, volunteer programs

🍽️ Dining & Food Scene

• Midland: Café Zinc, Gratzi, Whichcraft Taproom
• Bay City: Old City Hall, Gatsby’s, Harless + Hugh Coffee
• Freeland/Saginaw: Big E’s, Sullivan’s, Fralia’s

🛫 ATC-Specific Tips

• Training: Tower-only ops, calm pace, good for learning
• Shifts: Generally consistent, not overly hectic
• Community: Close-knit — most live in Freeland or Midland

📦 Moving Tips

• Winter gear: Snow shovel, scraper, all-weather mats
• Flood risk: Check before renting near rivers or lowlands
• Best time to move: May–September (pleasant weather)

❓ FAQs

• Is Saginaw safe?
  Saginaw Township is generally safe. Check neighborhoods carefully in the city of Saginaw.
• Can I live in Bay City and work at MBS?
  Yes — about 20–25 minutes commute.
• Do I need snow tires?
  Highly recommended in winter months.