Apartments for Rent in Ann Arbor, MI
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Renter's guide to Ann Arbor, MI

According to the 2010 U.S. Census, the City of Ann Arbor was the 6^th largest city in the State of Michigan, with a recorded population of 113,934. However, considering that there are over 43,000 students at the University of Michigan, you begin to get the picture of this city being very much a college town.

In fact, the university has had a major influence on Ann Arbor since it moved its campus there from Detroit in 1837 - a short move, even at that time, given that the distance from Detroit to Ann Arbor is only 43 miles. Another popular Midwestern city, Chicago is approximately 240 miles from Ann Arbor. If you’re looking for a cost-effective way to get to Chicago from Ann Arbor, consider taking a direct bus. A one-way fare costs between $24 and $32.

In general, the climate in Ann Arbor is greatly influenced by its proximity to the Great Lakes, with mid-summer high temperatures in the mid-80s and winter low temperatures that average in the upper 20s.

Tips for renting in Ann Arbor, MI

Things to do in Ann Arbor, MI

Though Ann Arbor is a relatively small town, it certainly doesn’t lack in big-city sophistication, culture, and wonderful neighborhoods. With more than 150 parks and the beautiful Huron River flowing through town, the city boasts an abundance of hiking and cycling trails, as well as some of the best canoeing and kayaking along the nationally recognized Huron River water trail. Coupled with numerous golf courses in the area, any outdoor enthusiast is never short of things to do in Ann Arbor year round.

The cultural scene is certainly driven by the presence of the University of Michigan and its several performing arts groups and facilities on campus. However, there are numerous local arts groups that are not affiliated with the university, including the Ann Arbor Civic Theatre, the Arbor Opera Theater, the Ann Arbor Symphony Orchestra, and the Ann Arbor Ballet Theater. Over 30 independent bookstores call this city home.

Whether you’re in the mood for a classic movie or the latest Hollywood blockbuster, there are plenty of nice movie theatres in town to get your popcorn-and-film fix. Rave on Carpenter and Quality 16 on Jackson (a 1/4 mile west of Wagner Rd.) are two of the best places in Ann Arbor for movie buffs, and if you don’t mind a 30-min drive to Canton, definitely check out Emagine (next to Home Depot on 39535 Ford Road).

Families with kids in Ann Arbor will surely have a blast at German Park’s public picnic events. There is a $5 fee per person yet entrance is free for children aged 12 and below; in return, you’ll get to enjoy some delightful authentic German dinners and lively dance performances.

As for shopping options, check out Bivouac, a unique store selling a mix of Men’s and Women’s clothing and gear. When you’re ready for some real retail therapy, Kerrytown Market & Shops will give you that and more with its interesting collection of designer shops and quaint, locally-owned boutiques. Briarwood Mall is another good option, with approx. 120 stores including Macy's, JC Penney, Von Maur, Sears, Victoria's Secret, Apple, and Coach.

Throughout the year there is a plethora of festivals and events, including the award-winning Ann Arbor Art Fair, the Ann Arbor Film Festival, the annual Ann Arbor Summer Festival, and of course The Ark Ann Arbor - the ever popular, nationally recognized acoustic and folk music festival. Finally, not to be overlooked, is the fall tradition of Michigan Football, which takes over the city on numerous weekends from September through November and on any given Saturday brings in more than 100,000 people to Ann Arbor to tailgate and fill "The Big House" to watch “Big Blue” football.

Ann Arbor, MI employment & economy

The University of Michigan employs roughly 30,000 people and therefore is the city’s largest employer. Nevertheless, the Ann Arbor economy is quite diversified, offering jobs in Ann Arbor industries such as automotive research and development, life sciences and health care services and research, software development, education, and publishing. After the university, the largest employers are Trinity Health (5,800), General Motors Milford Proving Grounds (3,750), and the Ann Arbor Public School district (2,500). The City of Ann Arbor unemployment rate (3.2%) was one of the lowest of any city in the country, much less the State of Michigan.

Education in Ann Arbor, MI

When it comes to higher education Ann Arbor may just be one of the most recognized cities in the country - being home to the University of Michigan. Founded in 1817 - a full 20 years before Michigan became a state - it is considered one of the leading research universities in the US. Its graduate program offers doctoral degrees in the humanities, social sciences, and STEM fields (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) and its athletic program competes in Division I of the NCAA in the Big Ten Conference. Probably nothing defines Ann Arbor more than “Big Blue,” as the university is known.

Ann Arbor public schools are part of the Ann Arbor Public Schools (AAPS) district and operates more than two dozen elementary as well as high schools. Ann Arbor is also home to several private schools, including the highly recognized Rudolf Steiner School, which offers a Waldorf education, and several charter schools.