Welcome to Ann Arbor!
Ann Arbor consistently ranks among America's best places to live. Here's your complete guide to making your move smooth and successful.
📦 Moving Checklist: 60 Days Before
✓ Essential Tasks:
- Research Neighborhoods: See family areas and affordable options
- Schedule Home Inspection: Get professional roof, HVAC, structural check
- Research Schools: Check Ann Arbor's top schools
- Arrange Movers: Book 6-8 weeks ahead
- Update Documents: Driver's license within 30 days
- Set Up Utilities: DTE Energy (electric/gas), water service
🏘️ Best Neighborhoods Overview
Burns Park
Median: $625,000 | Best For: Families with school-age kids
Top-rated Angell Elementary, walkable to everything, strong community
Downtown
Median: $400,000 (condos) | Best For: Professionals, empty nesters
Walk to restaurants, culture, U-M. Low maintenance living
North Ann Arbor
Median: $450,000 | Best For: Families wanting newer homes
Skyline HS area, suburban feel, family-sized homes
Ann Arbor/Ypsilanti Border
Median: $295,000 | Best For: Budget-conscious buyers
Ann Arbor schools, more affordable, good value
💰 Budget Planning
Sample Monthly Costs (Family of 4):
- Mortgage/Rent: $2,400-3,500
- Utilities: $250-350
- Groceries: $800-1,200
- Transportation: $800-1,400
- Childcare (if needed): $1,400-2,000
Recommended Income: $140,000-170,000/year
See complete Cost of Living Guide
🎓 School Enrollment
Ann Arbor Public Schools Enrollment:
- Register at Ann Arbor Public Schools Welcome Center
- Bring: Proof of residency, birth certificate, immunization records
- School boundaries determine which schools your children attend
- Research before buying - school assignments impact home values
🚗 Transportation & Getting Around
Driver's License:
Update Michigan license within 30 days at Secretary of State
Public Transit:
AAATA (TheRide) provides bus service. U-M employees/students ride free.
Parking:
Downtown parking in structures/meters. Residential areas have street parking.
🏥 Healthcare Setup
- Michigan Medicine: #1 hospital in Michigan, comprehensive care
- St. Joseph Mercy: Full-service hospital
- Choose primary care physician early
- U-M employees may have health insurance through U-M
💡 First Week Checklist
- ✓ Set up utilities (DTE Energy, water)
- ✓ Update driver's license and vehicle registration
- ✓ Find grocery stores (Kroger, Meijer, Whole Foods, Trader Joe's)
- ✓ Locate nearest parks and recreation
- ✓ Get library card (Ann Arbor District Library)
- ✓ Schedule home inspection if not done pre-purchase
New to Ann Arbor? Start with a Free Roof Inspection
Before you settle in, ensure your new home's roof is in good condition. Elite Roofing provides complimentary inspections for new Ann Arbor residents.
What We Check:
- ✅ Overall roof condition and remaining lifespan
- ✅ Potential issues to address
- ✅ Insurance claim evaluation if storm damage present
- ✅ Maintenance recommendations