Why You Should Spend the Summer Living & Working on Mackinac Island

Imagine waking up to the sound of horse hooves instead of honking horns. Picture trading your daily commute for a bike ride along scenic lakefront paths. Now imagine making lifelong friends while working on the #1 Summer Destination in the United States (voted 3 years in a row). That’s what a summer on Mackinac Island offers, and it’s calling your name!

At Mackinac Works, we connect adventurous job seekers with unforgettable opportunities on the island. Whether you’re a college student, burnt-out millennial, adventurous retiree, or just someone ready for a change of pace, here’s why spending a summer working on Mackinac Island is an experience you’ll never forget:

1. Earn & Save WAY More Than You Think

Mackinac Island isn’t just a fun summer escape, it can also be a major financial opportunity. Many seasonal positions offer high hourly wages, generous tips, or overtime hours that add up quickly. With employee housing provided by most employers at a low cost (some even provide meal plans), your expenses are minimal, meaning you can save thousands throughout the season. Some servers and bartenders even report earning $10,000–$12,000 in a single month during peak season. Whether you’re saving for school, travel, or future goals, working on Mackinac Island is a smart financial move.

2. Live Where Most People Vacation

Mackinac Island isn’t just a tourist destination, it’s a step back in time. There are no cars allowed on Mackinac, the island runs on bicycles, horse-drawn carriages, and island charm. Visiting Mackinac Island or purchasing a home here is quite costly. By taking on a seasonal job, you’ll get to live where others vacation, soaking in the natural beauty, historic sites, and sparkling waters of Lake Huron every single day without the price tag.

3. Make Lifelong Friendships

Seasonal staff come from all over the country and even the world. You’ll bond with coworkers over Mackinac Connect events, Karaoke Nights at Gatehouse Restaurant, Booty Night at Horns Restaurant, hikes to see the Northern Lights, bike rides to secret spots, and other island adventures. It’s like summer camp for adults, but this camp comes with a paycheck!

4. Build Your Resume in a Unique Way

The island is full of unique jobs, and we showcase many of them here on Mackinac Works. From kayak tour guides to carriage drivers to horseback riding instructors, this island has it all. You’ll come back to your friends and make them all jealous of the cool summer job you had. Whether you work in a hotel, restaurant, retail shop, or tour company, you’ll gain valuable customer service, communication, and teamwork skills. Employers love seeing Mackinac Island on a resume. It shows you’re adaptable, hardworking, and up for a challenge. If you’re looking for something more aligned with your career goals, there are also a variety of jobs on the island that build up resumes for corporate jobs. We mention more about them in #8.

5. Spend Your Days Outdoors With The BEST Summer Weather

Mackinac Island summers provide some of the BEST weather in the world. You’ll spend your days dockside, surrounded by crystal-clear blue waters that rival the Caribbean. Work commutes involve bike rides and scenic walks past horse-drawn carriages, lilac-lined streets, and breathtaking views of Lake Huron. And when the workday ends, the adventure continues. Kayak the shoreline at sunset, bike the famous 8.2-mile perimeter loop, or, if you’re lucky, catch a glimpse of the northern lights dancing over the Straits.

6. Simple Living = Big Savings

Many employers offer on-island staff housing at affordable rates, so you can save money while you work. Some employers even provide low-cost meal plans. With limited distractions and everything you need within biking distance, you’ll find yourself spending less and living more.

7. It’s a Once-in-a-Lifetime Adventure

A summer on Mackinac is more than just a job - it’s a story you’ll tell for the rest of your life. From starry skies and lilac festivals to ferry rides and fudge tastings, there’s magic in every moment.

8. There’s a Job for Every Skillset

Mackinac Island isn’t just about waitressing or scooping ice cream. The island offers a wide variety of positions in management, marketing, event planning, photography, retail, maintenance, journalism, and more. Whether you’re looking to break into your field or try something new, there’s a role that fits your goals.

Ready to Make Mackinac Island Your Home?

Browse current job listings, watch behind-the-scenes videos, and learn how to apply at MackinacWorks.com. Mackinac Island is waiting - and your summer adventure starts here!