Ann Arbor, MI
Why You’ll Love Living in Ann Arbor, Michigan
Ann Arbor is a community on a roll, and it doesn’t look like it’s going to slow down anytime soon. Google, TD Ameritrade, Nokia and a number of other globally known companies have a major presence in the region. What’s drawn them here, you might ask? Well, the “A’s” in the city’s name are a pretty good hint. Ann Arbor is highly educated – about 55% of adults have at least a bachelor’s degree – and the University of Michigan continues to churn out even more. But the region’s perks don’t stop there: the area has greenery galore, with 100,000 trees dotting its streets and parks. Plus, it boasts a number of must-attend festivals, farmers markets, eateries and outdoor recreation activities.
Thinking of moving to Ann Arbor, MI? Keep scrolling to find all the details about living in Ann Arbor, including quick facts such as the population, median home value and property taxes. Plus, learn more about the cost of living and quality of life in Ann Arbor, from the economy and job opportunities to weather, outdoor activities and things to do, including local restaurants and points of interest.
What Makes Ann Arbor, MI, a Best Place to Live in 2024
Everyone roots for the home team (Go Blue!) at the University of Michigan in Ann Arbor, MI. This is a city with a youthful vibe, a wealth of amenities and a robust talent pool. It’s one of the best places to live in the U.S. due, in part, to the prestigious university that pairs well with a highly-ranked public school system.
Health care also is first-rate in Ann Arbor, adding to the city’s innovative economy. Launching a career? Look no further than this city of 123,000 with jobs in artificial intelligence, data security, biotechnology and auto innovation. All of that academia trickles down to a creative culture that includes museums (the University of Michigan’s Museum of Art has a 20,000-piece collection!), independent bookstores, theater and live music performances, and festivals galore, like summertime’s Ann Arbor Art Fair.
Foodies will salivate over the many restaurants serving up flavors from around the world, and outdoor lovers will thrill at all the parks (more than 160), playgrounds and trails right outside their door. The walkable downtown is a great place to shop, dine, visit a gallery, watch a film or take a mural walk. Ann Arbor is a community where residents are engaged and come together for the betterment of the city.
Ann Arbor, MI Quality of Life LivScore
Ann Arbor, MI Top Categories
Health
Education
Amenities
Ann Arbor ranks highest for health, education and amenities.
Weather and Outdoor Activities in Ann Arbor, MI
Ann Arbor residents enjoy all four seasons, but there’s something magical about fall in a college town — from football Saturdays to stunning foliage. The average highs and lows are 82°F and 60°F (summer) and 34°F and 20°F (winter).
The average annual snowfall in Ann Arbor is around 60 inches per year.
The average annual rainfall in Ann Arbor is 36 inches.
Ann Arbor averages 178 sunny days a year.
Go kayaking or canoeing at the Delhi Metropark. You might even spot some turtles! The Border-to-Border Trail is a 35-mile, ADA-accessible paved pathway with half a dozen trail corridors connecting residents to cities and parks throughout Washtenaw County.
Things To Do in Ann Arbor, MI
University of Michigan Museum of Art is free and open to the public. With more than 20,000 objects from Western, Asian and African traditions and modern and contemporary art, you’ll want to visit this treasure trove repeatedly.
Ann Arbor Hands-On Museum is an interactive spot designed to entertain and educate children on various scientific and technological topics. If that doesn’t appeal to you, you could always visit Nickels Arcade or the Matthaei Botanical Gardens.
Ann Arbor is an artsy city. Filled with all kinds of colorful murals, graffiti and public art installations, there is a uniquely creative vibe that encourages creativity throughout.
Keep an eye out for fairies! Several Ann Arbor businesses and homes build miniature “fairy doors” to serve as whimsical portals for their mythical residents.
For a unique and flavorful night out, consider Frita Batidos. In addition to being downright fun to say, this Cuban-inspired restaurant offers a variety of fritas (Cuban burgers) and batidos (shakes).
The Ark is a legendary venue in Ann Arbor known for its intimate atmosphere and commitment to promoting folk and acoustic music. Its calendar features a variety of live performances from local and national artists.
The breweries here are so dog-friendly that some even have custom menus for furry, four-legged visitors. Grizzly Peak Brewing Co., for instance, offers a special “Pups on the Patio” menu, with proceeds benefiting the Huron Valley Humane Society.
The Local and State Economy in Ann Arbor, MI
Ann Arbor is known for its strong economy and diverse industries. Three of the largest industries are manufacturing, health care and automotive. In addition, several notable companies are headquartered in Ann Arbor, including Domino’s Pizza, Borders Group and Esperion Therapeutics.
In 2024, the sales tax rate in Ann Arbor is 6%.
Yes, Michigan has a state income tax.
Ann Arbor residents are in good health, and providers include the University of Michigan Hospitals – Michigan Medicine, St. Joseph Mercy Ann Arbor and C.S. Mott Children’s Hospital.
Ann Arbor has several major colleges and universities, but the University of Michigan is the most notable.
Weather in Ann Arbor, MI
Average Temperatures
58 High / 39 Low
Average Annual Rainfall
36 Inches
Average Annual Snowfall
63 Inches
Quick Facts about Ann Arbor, Michigan
- Median Home Value
- $389,893
- Median Property Tax
- $3,292
- Total Population
- 123,372
- Average Commute
- 17 min
- Median Household Income
- $85,830
- Median Rent per Month
- $1,164
Map of Ann Arbor, MI
Experiences & Adventures in Ann Arbor, MI
7 Must-Visit Festivals in Ann Arbor, MI
Ann Arbor knows how to throw a party. Here is a small sample of the many events that take place throughout the region.
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Food Scenes in Ann Arbor, MI
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Healthy Places in Ann Arbor, MI
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Education, Careers and Opportunity in Ann Arbor, MI
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Ann Arbor, MI: Love Where You Live
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