I've lived near the Great Lakes most of my life, in cities that draw their municipal water out of them. Hardness is typically in the 120 - 140 PPM range. I've never had, or needed, a softener in my house, nor do I know anyone that has.

You should get your water analyzed by an independent lab. You may very well need some type of water treatment to correct something, but I don't see the level of hardness you indicate as being worth installing a softner for.