Welcome to Ann Arbor - consistently ranked among America's best places to live for education, innovation, and quality of life! If you're considering a move to Tree Town, you're joining a vibrant community known for world-class education, cutting-edge tech, exceptional schools, and a cultural scene that rivals cities ten times its size.
Ann Arbor in 2024 is thriving. Home to the University of Michigan, the city pulses with intellectual energy, entrepreneurial spirit, and progressive values. From the walkable downtown packed with restaurants and shops to tree-lined neighborhoods with excellent schools, Ann Arbor offers big-city amenities with a welcoming, community-focused atmosphere. Yes, it's more expensive than most Michigan cities, but many residents consider it worth every penny.
When you settle into your new Ann Arbor home, Elite Roofing is here to ensure your roof is ready for Michigan's challenging seasons. Our free inspections help new homeowners protect one of their biggest investments from day one.
📋 Table of Contents
💰 Cost of Living in Ann Arbor
Ann Arbor is Michigan's most expensive city, with costs 25-30% above the state average. However, compared to coastal tech hubs like San Francisco or Boston, it remains remarkably affordable for what you get.
📊 Ann Arbor Cost Breakdown
- Median Home Price: $390,000
- Average Rent (1BR): $1,450/month
- Average Rent (2BR): $1,850/month
- Property Taxes: 1.5-1.8% of assessed value
- Utilities (Winter): $150-$210/month
- Groceries: 10% above national average
- Transportation: $75/month (bus pass) or $140-$200 gas/insurance
- Overall Cost Index: 25-30% above national average
The high cost reflects exceptional schools, walkability, strong job market, and quality of life. Most residents find the premium worthwhile, especially families prioritizing education. Salaries are typically higher to compensate, particularly in tech and healthcare.
💼 Job Market & Economy
Ann Arbor's economy centers on education, healthcare, and technology. The presence of the University of Michigan drives innovation, research, and a highly educated workforce.
🏢 Major Employers & Industries
- Average Household Income: $92,000
- Unemployment Rate: 2.8% (2024)
- Job Growth: 3.5% annually
- Top Growth Sectors: AI/autonomous vehicles, biotech, software, medical devices
- Average Commute: 19 minutes
Ann Arbor is a magnet for PhDs, engineers, and knowledge workers. The University spins off startups regularly, and major tech companies have significant presence. Remote workers often choose Ann Arbor for its schools and culture.
🏘️ Neighborhoods & Housing
Ann Arbor's neighborhoods blend historic charm with modern amenities. Competition is fierce, especially for homes in top school districts.
🏛️ Burns Park
Vibe: Family-friendly, top schools, walkable
Housing: $450k-$800k | Classic homes
Highlights: Best schools, parks, community
🎨 Old West Side
Vibe: Historic, artistic, diverse
Housing: $350k-$650k | Victorian/Craftsman
Highlights: Architecture, Kerrytown, walkable
🌳 Pittsfield Township
Vibe: Suburban, newer, family-oriented
Housing: $300k-$550k | Modern homes
Highlights: Good schools, more space, value
🏙️ Downtown
Vibe: Urban, young professionals, walkable
Housing: $250k-$600k | Condos/lofts
Highlights: Dining, culture, no car needed
→ Read our complete Ann Arbor Neighborhoods Guide
Architectural Styles: Ann Arbor showcases beautiful Victorians, Craftsman bungalows, Tudor Revivals, and modern contemporary. Many homes in sought-after neighborhoods date from 1900-1950.
Rental Market: Extremely competitive, especially near campus and in downtown. Expect to move quickly and pay premium prices. Many landlords require excellent credit and substantial income.
🎓 Schools & Education
Ann Arbor Public Schools is one of Michigan's top-performing districts. Education quality is a primary draw for families relocating here.
🏫 Education Overview
- Ann Arbor Public Schools: Consistently top-ranked in state and nation
- Top Schools: Pioneer High School, Huron High School, Skyline High School (all excellent)
- Elementary Schools: Burns Park, Bach, Lawton - highly sought after
- Private Schools: Rudolf Steiner School, Emerson School, Greenhills School
- Higher Education: University of Michigan (world-class), Washtenaw Community College
School quality significantly impacts housing prices. Homes in Burns Park, Angell, and Bach elementary boundaries command premium prices. The district offers exceptional programs in STEM, arts, and athletics.
🌦️ Weather & Climate
Ann Arbor experiences four distinct seasons with cold, snowy winters and warm, humid summers - typical Michigan weather with moderate snow accumulation.
❄️ Winter (Dec-Feb)
Temp: 20°F to 34°F
Snow: 50 inches annually
Cold with regular snowfall
🌸 Spring (Mar-May)
Temp: 36°F to 66°F
Rain: Moderate
Variable, rainy, beautiful blooms
☀️ Summer (Jun-Aug)
Temp: 64°F to 83°F
Humidity: Moderate-High
Warm, pleasant, occasional storms
🍂 Fall (Sep-Nov)
Temp: 45°F to 70°F
Conditions: Beautiful
Spectacular foliage, football weather
- Ice Dams: Common in older Ann Arbor homes with complex roof lines
- Snow Load: Roofs must support significant winter snow accumulation
- Freeze-Thaw: Temperature swings damage inadequate roofing materials
- Spring Storms: Heavy rains test gutter systems and flashing
Many Ann Arbor homes are 50-100+ years old. Elite Roofing specializes in historic home roofing and modern weatherproofing techniques.
🚗 Transportation
Ann Arbor is Michigan's most walkable and bike-friendly city, though most residents still own cars for convenience and winter weather.
🚌 Getting Around Ann Arbor
- Public Transit: TheRide bus system (free in downtown), extensive routes
- Major Highways: US-23, I-94, M-14
- Airport: Detroit Metro Airport (DTW) - 30 minutes east
- Walkability: Excellent downtown and near-campus, good in many neighborhoods
- Bike-Friendly: Extensive bike lanes, Border-to-Border Trail, bike-share program
- Parking: Challenging and expensive downtown ($1-$2.50/hour), free in neighborhoods
Many downtown and near-campus residents bike or walk year-round. The University offers free bus service. However, winter weather and suburban spread mean most families still rely on cars.
🏥 Healthcare
Ann Arbor offers world-class healthcare through Michigan Medicine, consistently ranked among America's best hospitals.
🏥 Major Healthcare Providers
- Michigan Medicine: Top-10 nationally ranked hospital, cutting-edge research
- C.S. Mott Children's Hospital: Top-ranked pediatric care
- Trinity Health: Multiple locations, excellent community care
- Quality Ratings: National rankings in cardiology, cancer, neurology, pediatrics
- Urgent Care: Multiple locations throughout city
- Specialists: Access to top specialists in virtually every field
🎭 Recreation & Lifestyle
Ann Arbor's cultural and recreational scene rivals cities five times its size. From Big Ten athletics to world-class performing arts, there's always something happening.
🌳 Parks & Outdoors
Nichols Arboretum, Gallup Park, Huron River trails, 160+ parks, kayaking, hiking
🍽️ Dining Scene
400+ restaurants, Zingerman's Deli, farm-to-table, global cuisine, craft beer/wine
🎨 Arts & Culture
University Musical Society, Ann Arbor Symphony, Michigan Theater, art galleries, festivals
🏈 Sports & Events
Michigan Wolverines (Big Ten), The Big House (largest stadium), ice hockey, basketball
Community Events: Art Fair (July), Film Festival, Summer Festival, Hash Bash, football Saturdays are city-wide celebrations
✅ Your Ann Arbor Moving Checklist
Use this comprehensive checklist to ensure a smooth relocation to Ann Arbor:
📋 Essential Moving Tasks
🏠 Home Inspection & Roofing Essentials
Given Ann Arbor's high home prices and prevalence of older homes, thorough inspection is critical. Don't skip roof evaluation - it's expensive to replace.
🔍 What to Inspect Before Buying
- Roof Age: Critical given Ann Arbor's premium home prices
- Historic Home Issues: Many homes have complex, multi-level roofs prone to problems
- Ice Dam Evidence: Check attics carefully for staining
- Flashing Quality: Older homes often have deteriorated flashing
- Ventilation: Poor ventilation accelerates roof deterioration
- Tree Damage: Tree Town lives up to its name - check for branch damage
🎁 Free Roof Inspection for New Ann Arbor Homeowners
Elite Roofing offers complimentary roof inspections for new residents. Our comprehensive assessment includes:
- Complete condition evaluation
- Historic home roofing expertise
- Remaining lifespan estimate
- Detailed written report with photos
- Free estimate for repairs or replacement
Protect your significant investment with professional assessment!
💰 Ann Arbor Roof Replacement Costs
Average Costs (1,500-2,000 sq ft home):
- Asphalt Shingles: $6,500 - $10,000
- Architectural Shingles: $8,500 - $13,500
- Metal Roofing: $14,000 - $24,000
- Historic Home Premium: +15-25% for complex roofs
Welcome Home to Ann Arbor!
Ann Arbor offers an exceptional quality of life that justifies its premium cost. World-class education, thriving economy, vibrant culture, and strong community make it one of America's most desirable cities.
As you invest in your Ann Arbor home, ensure your roof is ready to protect that investment. A proactive inspection provides peace of mind and prevents expensive surprises down the road.
🏠 Ready to Make Ann Arbor Home?
Before you close on your new home, call Elite Roofing for a FREE professional roof inspection.
We understand Ann Arbor's historic homes and weather challenges. Let us ensure your new home is ready for Michigan's seasons.