Jackson is located about 40 miles west of Ann Arbor along interstate 94. According to the 2000 census, the city population stands at 36,316. Established in 1829, it is also the official birthplace of the Republican Party. President Jackson held the first meeting of the "Republican" party under the oaks July 6, 1854. Jackson city has three primary employers, which includes CMS Energy, which offers natural gas and electrical services to much of Michigan, as well as the Easton Corporation and Allegiance Health.

Jackson offers 65 spring-fed lakes to its residents and has become a popular vacation spot for Michigan tourists. Water sports enthusiasts take full advantage of the lakes and enjoy swimming, fishing, boating and other outdoor activities. Jackson also ranks high within the golf community, as Golf Digest magazine calls Jackson one of the country's best golf values. Jackson features wonderful cultural activities, from symphony concerts to Broadway shows to an annual Shakespeare festival. Higher educational facilities include Jackson Community College (JCC), Baker College and Spring Arbor University.

As of the fourth quarter 2009, the average sale price of a residential home in Jackson is $69,844 and the average sale price of a condominium is $66,010.