Ann Arbor, MIBest Places To Live in the U.S. in 2023
Go big, go bold, go blue in Ann Arbor. Located in southeastern Michigan, Ann Arbor is a thriving college town full of plenty of things to do, from top-notch schools to plenty of parks and recreation opportunities, all while maintaining a low cost of living.
Ann Arbor, MI, Is One of the Best Cities To Live in America
Home to the University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, residents and businesses can enjoy the perks of living and operating in a college town – a youthful spirit, game day fun, a strong talent pipeline and campus amenities open to all, like the University of Michigan Museum of Art, which has a 20,000-piece collection.
Ann Arbor (or A2 as locals call it) is one of the best places to live in the U.S., partly because of its top-rated university and excellent public schools. The area also has high-ranking hospitals and health care options and an innovation-driven economy. Those looking to launch or grow their careers can find jobs in auto innovation, artificial intelligence and biotech (a heart-lung machine used in the first heart transplant was made here).
Ann Arbor is also a creative hub, and residents have access to live music, independent bookstores, museums, theater performances and the annual Ann Arbor Art Fair that takes place every summer. Great restaurants with flavors from around the world and an iconic deli (Zingerman’s) add to Ann Arbor’s appeal.
Ann Arbor, MI Quality of Life LivScore
Ann Arbor, MI Top Categories
Transportation
Education
Health
Ann Arbor ranks highest for transportation, education and health.
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. 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 45 inches per year. January and February are the snowiest months.
The average annual rainfall in Ann Arbor is 36 inches, and the city receives an average of 123 rainy days per year.
Ann Arbor averages 175 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 long, ADA-accessible paved pathway with a half dozen trail corridors connecting residents to cities and parks throughout Washtenaw County.
Ann Arbor Weather
175 days
Average Annual Sun
36 inches
Average Annual Rain
45 inches
Average Annual Snow
Things To Do in Ann Arbor, MI
Fairies live there! You can spot little fairy portals (i.e., mini doors, often architectural dupes of the actual ones) around town at businesses and residences.
The M Den is the official retailer of Michigan athletics and has a partnership with Lululemon, so you can stock up on your gameday gear.
Catch a show at The Ark, a beloved acoustic and folk music venue.
19 Drips Coffee and Tea is a coffee and tea shop with a twist of Yemeni.
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 2023, 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, MI, has several major colleges and universities, but the University of Michigan is the most notable.
Quick Facts About Ann Arbor, MI
- Median Household Income
- $72,508
- Median Home Value
- $387,501
- Average State Property Tax
- $2,551
- Total Population
- 122,915
- Median Rent/Mo.
- $1,201
- Average Commute
- 16.79 minutes
Ann Arbor’s high performance in the education and health categories makes it one of the best places to live in the U.S. Learn why you should move to Ann Arbor or consider other great places to live in the Midwest. Another good resource as you consider a move: The Ultimate Guide To Finding Your Best Place To Live.
