Men like Henry Ford, the Dodge Brothers, and Louis Cheverolete didn't literally put Detroit on the map, but they made its name synonymous with American automobile industry, mover of a nation and its powerful economy. Grand Rapids boomed right alongside as one of the country's furniture-producing capitals, and both cities' prosperous citizens sought open space in the surrounding countryside, building towns that grew into some of the most famous and disirable suburbs in the country. In these and dozens of other well-kept communities such as Ann Arbor, home to the University of Michigan, the quality of life has never been better. Ten years into an economic renaissance in central Michigan, now is a perfect time to enjoy living in these multicultural cities on the upswing that are still known for high hopes and hard work.