Michigan Cities Getting the Most (And Least) Sunlight Annually

Here we go again. As winter creeps into Michigan, the skies darken, and gloomy grey clouds settle in for what seems like months at a time. According to the Farmers Almanac, Michigan is the 7th cloudiest state in America. Before we look at the cities in Michigan that get the most and fewest days of sunshine per year, let's talk about WHY we need it.

RELATED: SEASONAL DEPRESSION: Michigan is One of USA's SADdest States

According to a 2020 National Institute for Health (NIH) study, sunlight is your main source of Vitamin D, which (this is gonna sound like a cereal commercial) is essential for strong bones, heart health, and keeping our immune systems primed. So, basically, sunshine should be a part of every happy Michiganders day, even if we have to we must resort to artificial means to satisfy our body's need for for warm rays.

Michigan's Lack of Sunlight is a SAD Breeding Grounds

Low sunlight also messes with our serotonin levels, often leading to Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD). While the acronym fits, the disorder itself is, well, depressing. Think oversleeping, low energy, and cravings for carbs (comfort food is Michigan's Love Language).

Does any of that sound familiar? While some may just brush it off as "That's the way winter has always been in Michigan, so suck it up and 'Ope your way through another day!" others may want to find a way to battle the Winter SAD effects.

Tips for Avoiding SAD

Light therapy, staying active, and chasing whatever bit of sunshine we can find are some of the ways that people cope. Others have found places to live in the Mitten State that offer more days of sun than others.

RELATED: State of Depression? Michigan SAD Ranking For Happiness in the US

While Michigan may only have the seventh fewest sunny days in the nation, some Mitten State cities get more than most. For a complete list, keep scrolling.