Standish, Michigan: Discover the Charm of Small-Town Living

Tucked away in the heart of Arenac County, Standish, Michigan, offers a splendid blend of tranquility and tight-knit community spirit that promises a warm welcome to all who visit or choose to call it home. This delightful town, with its population of just over 1,500, boasts a genuine sense of belonging and camaraderie that is becoming increasingly rare in today's fast-paced world.

Standish shines brightly with its commitment to preserving green spaces, ensuring that residents can enjoy the great outdoors. Take a leisurely stroll in Standish Historical Depot and Welcome Center Park, where you can enjoy the town's historical roots while soaking in the natural beauty. For the fishing enthusiasts, Saganing Eagles Landing, only a short drive away, offers serene moments by the water.

Education, arts, and culture hold significant value in Standish, with the community coming together to support schools and local events passionately. The town is known for its vibrant festivals that celebrate both heritage and innovation, providing opportunities for locals and visitors alike to immerse themselves in the region's culture.

From family-owned diners serving delicious home-cooked meals to quaint shops lining the streets, Standish embodies the essence of small-town charm while offering all the amenities for a comfortable lifestyle. It's a place where neighbors become lifelong friends, and everyone is treated like family. A visit to Standish is not just a trip—it's an experience that stays with you.

Workforce & Industrial Development

Located at the gateway to northern Michigan, Standish offers a strategic position for industrial and logistics operations serving both the Lower and Upper Peninsulas. The city sits at the intersection of US-23 and I-75, providing direct highway access for freight movement and supply chain efficiency. Standish is also just minutes from the Saginaw Bay, supporting regional connectivity for distribution and manufacturing firms.

Industrial real estate activity in Standish and Arenac County is on the rise, with local development authorities working to expand available sites and infrastructure. The Standish Industrial Park features shovel-ready parcels and utilities tailored for light manufacturing, warehousing, and food processing sectors. Regional vacancy rates remain low, and local officials are actively marketing available land to new and expanding businesses.

Standish benefits from a skilled workforce rooted in manufacturing, agriculture, and logistics. Partnerships with Delta College and Michigan Works! Region 7B provide tailored workforce training and recruitment solutions. These programs help employers access talent and upskill employees in advanced manufacturing, automation, and distribution.

Michigan’s robust incentive landscape includes programs like the Michigan Business Development Program (MBDP) and local property tax abatements, which can support job creation and capital investment. The Arenac County Economic Development Corporation also offers site selection assistance and guidance on available incentives for qualifying projects.