LANSING, Mich. (Michigan News Source) — Ask Michigan voters how the state stacks up nationally and most will say: about average. The data, however, suggests otherwise.

A new statewide poll commissioned by the Detroit Regional Chamber finds a wide gap between perception and performance. While about half of those surveyed expressed confidence in the state’s overall direction, many significantly overestimated how the state ranks nationally on income, education, and employment.

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The Glengariff Group survey of 600 registered voters, conducted Jan. 27 to Feb. 2, found respondents typically ranked Michigan between 25th and 29th compared to other states. In reality, Michigan ranks 33rd in college degree attainment, 44th in student reading performance, and 45th in unemployment.

“On nearly every metric we tested, Michigan voters believe the state is doing average,” pollster Richard Czuba said. “The reality is Michigan is doing far worse.”

Public opinion on the economy is nearly evenly divided. Just over four in 10 respondents view current conditions positively, while a nearly identical share see them negatively. Rising prices remain the primary frustration among those dissatisfied with the state’s economic climate. Yet on a personal level, most voters report stability—roughly three-quarters say their own financial situation has held steady or improved compared to a year ago.

Confidence in job availability appears softer. Fewer than half of those surveyed believe quality employment opportunities exist for everyone willing to work, the weakest showing for that question in nearly two years.

Awareness of proposed AI data centers is also limited. A majority of respondents say they have heard little or nothing about the projects. Among those familiar with them, skepticism runs higher than enthusiasm, though many stop short of taking a firm position. Even so, more than a third of voters say such facilities could boost Michigan’s economy, most often citing potential job creation.

The poll has a margin of error of plus or minus four percentage points.

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Chamber CEO Sandy Baruah put it starkly: “In many ways, our house is on fire.”