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Renter’s City Guide to Ann Arbor, MI
Introducing Ann Arbor Expenses & Housing Stats Jobs & Education Lifestyle & Renting Tips

How big is Ann Arbor?

Ann Arbor was ranked the 6th largest city in Michigan, according to the 2010 U.S. Census, when the population numbered 113,934 residents. The city is also a thriving college town, and ever since the University of Michigan moved its campus here from Detroit in 1837, around 43,000 students call Ann Arbor home each year.

What cities are close to Ann Arbor?

Detroit is the closest large city to Ann Arbor, a mere 43-mile drive away. The Midwestern giant, Chicago, is around 240 miles away and can easily be reached by taking a direct bus — fares are also affordable, ranging between $24 and $32 for a one-way trip.

What is the weather like in Ann Arbor?

Ann Arbor has a humid continental climate, directly influenced by its proximity to the Great Lakes. Summer temperatures peak at around 81°F, while winter lows tend to hover around the upper 20s.

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What are the pros of living in Ann Arbor?

Ann Arbor enjoys a series of accolades that mark it as a prime spot for those looking to live and work in the Midwest. The city has made the charts of many publications, featured at #5 among ‘The 15 U.S. Towns Most Worthy of a Day Trip’ by Esquire Magazine, #7 in Nerdwallet's 'Best Cities for Women in the Workforce' and #20 in Forbes' 'Top 20 Happiest Cities To Work In Right Now'. It also gets frequent mentions in Livability.com's list of top college towns and provides a diverse living and working environment for its residents. There are several great neighborhoods in this regard, such as the Bryant neighborhood, just south of the U.S. Interstate 94. Ann Arbor has also seen a lot of development, especially in its downtown area and business district, yet this hasn't detracted from its walkability score.

What are the cons of living in Ann Arbor?

Like many cities close to the Great Lakes, Ann Arbor can suffer from lake-effect weather, which can make winters particularly challenging. This is, however, a minor downside since the city's numerous cultural and entertainment amenities, as well as a strong economy, more than make up for the cold and snow.

Ann Arbor Demographic Highlights
Total Population 122,731
Female
Male
62,242
60,489
Median Age 27.5
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How much is public transportation in Ann Arbor?

The Ann Arbor Area Transportation Authority, also known as TheRide, provides regular and reliable bus services throughout the city, as well as neighboring Ypsilanti. One-way trips are very affordable and you can get a cash fare for only $1.50. TheRide also provides discounted fares for students and seniors.

How much does a meal cost in Ann Arbor?

The cost of living in Ann Arbor is generally below the national average and drastically cheaper than cities like New York, which is also reflected in eating out. The cost of a three-course meal for two in a mid-range restaurant averages around $62.50, while a single meal in an inexpensive restaurant costs as little as $11. 

How much are utilities in Ann Arbor?

The monthly utility bill for a 915 sq ft apartment in Ann Arbor is $171.59 on average, and it includes water, heating, electricity and waste disposal. Internet services will add another $66.73 to your monthly bill.

Ann Arbor Rent Statistics
Apartment Rent Ranges
$501 - $7000%
$701 - $1,0000.85%
$1,001 - $1,50034.46%
$1,501 - $2,00037.05%
> $200027.64%
Average Rent Trends
What is the average rent in Ann Arbor?

The average rent for an apartment in Ann Arbor is $1,933 per month.

What is the average apartment size in Ann Arbor?

The average apartment size in Ann Arbor is 878 sq. ft.

What is the rent for a studio apartment in Ann Arbor?

Rent for a studio apartment in Ann Arbor ranges between $1,558 and $3,299 per month.

What is the rent for a 1-bedroom apartment in Ann Arbor?

Rent for a 1-bedroom apartment in Ann Arbor ranges between $1,040 and $3,760 per month.

What is the rent for a 2-bedroom apartment in Ann Arbor?

Rent for a 2-bedroom apartment in Ann Arbor ranges between $1,325 and $5,600 per month.

What is the rent for a 3-bedroom apartment in Ann Arbor?

Rent for a 3-bedroom apartment in Ann Arbor ranges between $1,775 and $5,000 per month.

Ann Arbor Housing Statistics
Occupied Housing Units 49,661
Owner occupied 45.53%
Renter occupied 54.47%
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What are the major industries in Ann Arbor?

Ann Arbor enjoys a diverse economy. Even though a lot of the city's workforce is employed in the education and research fields, Ann Arbor offers plenty of jobs in health care services, software development, publishing, as well as automotive research and development. The city's unemployment rate was 3.2%, one of the lowest in the state of Michigan, and the whole country.

What are the top employers in Ann Arbor?

The University of Michigan plays a major role in Ann Arbor's economy, and it's one of the city's top employers, with around 30,000 people working on and off-campus. Other top employers include Trinity Health (5,800), General Motors Milford Proving Grounds (3,750) and the Ann Arbor Public School district (2,500).

Ann Arbor Employment Statistics
White Collar 60,033
Blue Collar 4,560
White Collar 92.94%
Blue Collar 7.06%
Self Employment 4,683
Private Companies 32,422
Governmental Workers 16,214
Not for Profit Companies 11,274
Self Employment 7.25%
Private Companies 50.19%
Governmental Workers 25.1%
Not for Profit Companies 17.45%
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What schools are there in Ann Arbor?

Public schools in the city are part of the Ann Arbor Public Schools district, which operates over two dozen schools ranging from elementary to high school. The city is also home to several charter schools and private schools, such as the highly acclaimed Rudolf Steiner School, offering a Waldorf education.

What are the top colleges in Ann Arbor?

When it comes to higher education, this is where Ann Arbor truly shines. The city is home to the oldest university in the state: the University of Michigan, affectionately dubbed as 'Big Blue', was founded in 1817, 20 years before Michigan became a state. One of the leading universities in the U.S., it offers graduate programs with doctoral degrees in fields ranging from STEM to humanities and social sciences. Its athletic program is also on par, competing in Division I of the NCAA in the Big Ten Conference.

Ann Arbor Education Statistics
No High School0.67%
Some High School11.02%
Some College27.11%
Associate Degree3.06%
Bachelor Degree27.21%
Graduate Degree30.93%
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What parks are there in Ann Arbor?

The city's founders named it Ann Arbor for a good reason: the city has over 150 parks, making it a great place to live for any outdoor enthusiast. Huron River, flowing through the city, adds to the charm and provides an excellent background for its numerous hiking and cycling trails. If you're into water sports, such as kayaking or canoeing, make sure to check out the Huron River Water Trail. Or, if you prefer something more laid back, there's plenty of golf courses dotted around the city.

What is there to do in Ann Arbor for families?

Although Ann Arbor has a college town feel, families with kids will also feel right at home. For a fun day out with the little ones, the German Park is a must-see, especially in summer, when it becomes a veritable Biergarten, complete with authentic German dishes, public picnic events and dance performances. 

What are the cultural attractions in Ann Arbor?

When it comes to the local cultural scene, the University of Michigan has a significant say in Ann Arbor's attractions. The university has many performing arts groups on campus, which provide a diverse entertainment scene. Local arts groups have their own contribution to the city's lively feel, with performances ranging from the Ann Arbor Civic Theatre to the Arbor Opera Theater, the Ann Arbor Symphony Orchestra and the Ann Arbor Ballet Theater. The city is also home to more than 30 independent bookstores.

Where to watch a movie in Ann Arbor?

If you're in the mood for a romantic date or just seeking the thrill of the latest action-packed blockbuster, Ann Arbor has several cinemas to meet all needs. Keep up with both the newest movies as well as classics at the Ann Arbor 20 IMAX or the GQT Quality 16. Or, if you don’t mind a bit of a drive to Canton Township, the Emagine is a multi-screen theater that is also worth checking out.

What are the main annual events in Ann Arbor?

There are so many annual events in Ann Arbor that you'll be hard-pressed to attend them all. From the award-winning Ann Arbor Art Fair to the Ann Arbor Summer Festival, Ann Arbor Film Festival and, last but not least, The Ark Ann Arbor Acoustic and Folk Music Festival, you'll never get a dull moment. The list of annual events wouldn't be complete without mentioning the fall tradition of Michigan Football — Ann Arbor is a college town, after all. Bringing together over 100,000 on a regular Saturday, this sporting event spreads out over the course of several weekends from September to November.

Where to eat out in Ann Arbor?

Ann Arbor’s dining scene is just as diverse as its cultural and entertainment venues, with over 300 restaurants ready to meet all appetites and preferences. Zingerman's Deli is one of the city's most popular eateries. Still, if you'd rather stray from sandwiches and into more adventurous flavor realms, you'll find numerous ethnic restaurants throughout the city. Aventura, Pizza House, Sava's, The Chop House and No Thai! — these are just some of the city's famous restaurants, but you'll find plenty more options for anything ranging from Asian, Mexican and Middle eastern to steak houses and pizza joints.

Where to go shopping in Ann Arbor?

If you fancy a bit of a shopping spree, the Bivouac is a great place to start, selling a mixture of men's and women's clothes. Up next, check out Kerrytown Market & Shops, with numerous outlets ranging from designer shops to locally-owned boutiques. Or if you want to go big, Briarwood Mall is a shopping center with around 120 stores, where you’ll find top retailers like Victoria's Secret, Apple, Coach, as well as Macy's, JCPenney, Von Maur and Sears.

Ann Arbor Household Statistics
Total Number of Households 49,661
Average People Per Household 2
Median Household Income$73,276
Average Household Income$107,368
Family
Non-family
21,748
27,913
Children
No Children
8,913
40,748

What are the renter’s rights in Ann Arbor?

Before you move to Ann Arbor, make sure to familiarize yourself with Michigan's extensive tenants' and landlords' rights.

What are the best neighborhoods in Ann Arbor?

Most of the residents in Ann Arbor live in the heart of the city, close to the University of Michigan. You'll find plenty of rentals available, ranging from apartments to townhouses, most of them occupied by university staff, students and young professionals. Ann Arbor is a great place for those looking to live in a city with a high education standard and much of the population has a college degree. However, depending on where you're relocating from, the housing market may not seem affordable. Make sure to research your neighborhood before moving in and signing a lease.

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