Ann Arbor, MI Homes For Rent

Homes for Rent in Ann Arbor, MI: What You Need to Know

Ann Arbor, the seat of Washtenaw County, is known as the home of the University of Michigan and the Wolverines football team.

Schools and Education

Ann Arbor is a thriving college town with 78 institutions of higher education within 100 miles of the city. The biggest schools are the University of Michigan (UM) with 46,716 students, Washtenaw Community College with 12,264 students, and East Michigan University with 19,123 students.

The city’s 47 public schools are ranked in the top 5% of Michigan public schools. They have an average math proficiency score of 63% versus Michigan’s 39% average and reading proficiency score of 67% compared with the state’s 49% average.

Weather and Climate

Winter lovers will be pleased to learn that Ann Arbor averages 43 inches of snow annually compared with the national average of only 28 inches. The city received a record-breaking 11 inches of snow on November 11, 2019. In terms of rainfall, the city gets an average of 36 inches of rain per year, close to the U.S. average of 38 inches. You’ll enjoy the best weather in Ann Arbor between mid-June and early September.

The Cost of Living in Ann Arbor

Ann Arbor is an affordable small city (population: 119,980) with a cost of living rate that’s 5.8% lower than the national average. Food and transportation costs are 31.9% and 7.2% lower than the national average respectively. Median gross rent in Ann Arbor is $1,213. Michigan’s flat income tax rate of 4.25% is among the lowest for states with a flat tax. The state levies a 6% sales tax.

Know Your Neighborhoods

More than half of all residents in Ann Arbor are renters. The city is known for its small-town vibe and excellent amenities, including great restaurants, shops, and a vibrant nightlife. If you want to live close to downtown and UM, Burns Park and Northside are great choices. Both neighborhoods offer charming old houses and apartment complexes. Pittsfield Charter Township is very close to Ann Arbor but still offers the suburban feel. Residents love Ypsilanti for its diversity and amenities. Almost half of all residents in both suburban communities are renters.

Shopping in Town

Kerrytown District boasts of the city’s best farmer’s market, weekly artisan market, and unique boutiques. For name-brand stores, visit Briarwood Mall with over 130 specialty shops. For UM souvenirs and Wolverines game-day gear, head to the M Den, which has two locations on State Street and Main Street.