Ann Arbor, Michigan Living Guide: Housing Market, Schools, Safety & Weekend Fun

By Andrew McManamonPlaces To Live In Michigan

Introduction

Ann Arbor, Michigan often lands on shortlists for people relocating within the state or moving to Michigan for the first time. Known for its walkable areas, established neighborhoods, and steady housing demand, Ann Arbor offers a blend of urban convenience and outdoor access that appeals to a wide range of lifestyles.

At the same time, Ann Arbor comes with higher housing costs than many Michigan cities, and inventory can be competitive. Understanding how cost of living, schools, property taxes, and daily life actually compare is key before deciding whether Ann Arbor is the right long-term fit.

Ann Arbor, Michigan Living Guide: Housing Market, Schools, Safety & Weekend Fun

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Where Is Ann Arbor, Michigan Located?

Ann Arbor is located in central Washtenaw County in Southeast Michigan. It sits approximately 45 miles west of downtown Detroit and about 25 miles east of Jackson.

According to the U.S. Census Bureau and Michigan GIS data, Ann Arbor is positioned along the Huron River and is easily accessed via Interstate 94 and U.S. Route 23. This location provides direct highway connections to Metro Detroit, Detroit Metropolitan Airport, and other major employment corridors in Southeast Michigan.

Cost of Living in Ann Arbor, Michigan

The cost of living in Ann Arbor is higher than the Michigan average, with housing being the primary factor.

Based on U.S. Census Bureau American Community Survey data, median home values and average rents in Ann Arbor exceed statewide medians. Utilities and transportation costs, however, remain closer to Michigan norms, according to Bureau of Labor Statistics regional data.

BestPlaces.net and Niche.com both report Ann Arbor’s overall cost of living index as above the Michigan average, driven largely by housing demand and limited inventory rather than elevated daily expenses.

Real Estate & Housing Overview

Ann Arbor’s housing stock is diverse, reflecting decades of development. Common home styles include early-20th-century colonials, mid-century ranches, contemporary townhomes, and low-rise condominiums.

According to U.S. Census Bureau housing data, much of Ann Arbor’s housing was built between the 1940s and 1970s, with newer construction primarily consisting of infill projects, condos, and townhomes rather than large subdivisions. Typical lot sizes vary widely depending on neighborhood and proximity to downtown.

MLS market summaries and Niche.com indicate that Ann Arbor consistently experiences strong buyer demand, relatively low inventory, and competitive pricing, without making future market predictions.

Property Taxes in Ann Arbor

Property taxes in Ann Arbor are calculated using Michigan’s taxable value system and applied millage rates.

Per the Michigan Department of Treasury, property tax bills include city, county, school district, and voter-approved millages. Ann Arbor’s millage rates are higher than many surrounding communities due to municipal services and local funding structures.

Because rates and assessments vary by property and year, buyers should verify current millage rates through the City of Ann Arbor or Washtenaw County Equalization Department before purchasing.

Things to Do & Lifestyle

Ann Arbor offers a wide range of lifestyle options centered on outdoor access, cultural amenities, and walkable districts.

The city maintains an extensive park system, including Gallup Park, Nichols Arboretum, and riverside trails along the Huron River, according to the City of Ann Arbor Parks & Recreation Department and the Michigan DNR. Downtown Ann Arbor and Kerrytown provide dining, retail, and year-round community programming.

Seasonal events, public art, and local markets are also common, supported by city-sponsored initiatives and downtown development authorities.

Schools & Education (Neutral Framing)

Ann Arbor is primarily served by Ann Arbor Public Schools.

According to GreatSchools.org and Niche.com, the district offers multiple elementary, middle, and high school options with publicly available academic performance indicators. Postsecondary education options are also significant due to the presence of the University of Michigan.

As with any district, school experiences vary by building and program, and reviewing multiple data sources is recommended.

Pros & Cons of Living in Ann Arbor

Pros:

Established housing market with consistent demand (MLS data)
Extensive parks and trail system (City of Ann Arbor)
Walkable downtown and neighborhood commercial districts
Direct access to major highways and regional employers (MDOT)

Cons:

Higher housing costs compared to Michigan averages (U.S. Census Bureau)
Competitive real estate market with limited inventory
Property tax rates higher than many nearby municipalities (Michigan Department of Treasury)

Frequently Asked Questions About Living in Ann Arbor, Michigan

Is Ann Arbor a city or a town?

Ann Arbor is officially incorporated as a city in the State of Michigan.

What county is Ann Arbor in?

Ann Arbor is located in Washtenaw County.

How far is Ann Arbor from Detroit?

Ann Arbor is approximately 45 miles west of downtown Detroit, according to MDOT mapping data.

Is Ann Arbor walkable?

Certain areas, particularly downtown and nearby neighborhoods, offer higher walkability scores (Niche.com).

Does Ann Arbor have public transportation?

Yes, Ann Arbor is served by TheRide public transit system (Ann Arbor Area Transportation Authority).

Are there parks and trails in Ann Arbor?

Yes, the city maintains numerous parks and riverfront trails (City of Ann Arbor).

Is housing inventory limited in Ann Arbor?

Inventory levels are generally lower than statewide averages, based on MLS data.

Does Ann Arbor have a downtown area?

Yes, downtown Ann Arbor is a central hub for dining, retail, and events.

Are there lakes in Ann Arbor?

Ann Arbor does not have large inland lakes but offers extensive access to the Huron River.

Is Ann Arbor considered expensive for Michigan?

Compared to many Michigan cities, Ann Arbor has higher housing costs, per Census and Niche data.

To Conclude:

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