Why Ann Arbor?
Ann Arbor is located in southeast Michigan’s Lower Peninsula at the center of a collection of communities in Washtenaw County, With so many communities nearby, Ann Arbor has become a culture melting pot in addition to a bustling university town. It has become a culinary hotspot as well as a technology hub, and the walkable downtown area features an adorable main street, boutique shops, bookstores, and taverns. While it is proud to be the home of the nationally recognized Wolverines football team, it is a desirable area for residents of all ages looking to take advantage of the beautiful outdoors, expansive park system, excellent schools, and low crime rates. Ann Arbor consistently ranks as one of the best places to live, the best places for food in the Midwest, and the best cities for overall well-being.
Education is Strong
Ann Arbor is known for its excellent educational opportunities. It is home to the highly-rated University of Michigan, which ranks among the top universities in the country. However, it is more than just a college town. Ann Arbor’s K-12 schools remain among the top in the Midwest. The public school system scored an A+ on Niche and has an 89% graduation rate. In addition to the excellent public schools, there are also a number of renowned private schools in the area, including Summers-Knoll, Emerson and Rudolf Steiner, and Greenhills School.
The Great Outdoors
With warm summers and mild spring temperatures, locals often take advantage of the expansive park system in the city. With more than 160 public parks, there are plenty of opportunities for residents of all ages to enjoy the outdoors. Bird Hills Nature Area is a 146-acre park and the largest in the city. Gallup Park is another popular location for those looking to hike, ski, bike, kayak, or sail. The Huron River also runs right through the heart of the city and is perfect for canoeing, fishing, or kayaking. Ann Arbor is truly a beautiful oasis right in the middle of an urban town.
Career Opportunities
Ann Arbor ranks as one of the best places for business and career opportunities. With a diverse economy that features established corporations, technology start-ups, and excellent academic institutions, there are plenty of opportunities for professional development. The University of Michigan is one of the largest employers and offers a wealth of career opportunities for students and graduates. St. Joseph Mercy Health System is an excellent place to further a career in healthcare, as it is ranked among the best in the world. The General Motors Proving Grounds provides ample career opportunities in the automotive industry, while Ann Arbor is also home to a thriving technology startup scene.
Where to Live in Ann Arbor
Choosing the right neighborhood is one of the most challenging decisions you will face when moving to a new city. Fortunately, Ann Arbor has a variety of neighborhoods and communities that will suit any lifestyle. Whether you are looking for a cozy place to settle down, proximity to nightlife, or just a taste of the crisp Midwest air, there is sure to be a neighborhood perfect for you in Ann Arbor.
Old West Side: If you love historic homes and prefer to be close to some of the city’s best attractions, Old West Side is a great place to live. Featuring beautiful tree-lined streets and a short walk to Main Street and downtown, the area is accessible to a number of amenities, including local shops, restaurants, and attractions for residents of all ages.
Burns Park: This centrally located neighborhood is among the most desirable in the city. It is located on the 15-acre Burns Park, which features five tennis courts, a basketball court, a playground, walking paths, and Burns Park School. This family-friendly community allows convenient access to downtown Ann Arbor, the University of Michigan campus, and Nichols Arboretum.
Northside: Just north of the Huron River, Northside is a highly sought-after neighborhood for history buffs and those who love culture and diversity. Its location near the U of M’s North Campus and downtown makes it a popular destination for students and professors.
Eberwhite: This neighborhood features some of the most charming historic homes in the city. It is centrally located just west of downtown, so it offers easy access to all the city has to offer. It also centers on the beautiful Eberwhite Woods, a gorgeous park with trees, wildflowers, and walking trails. It is also a popular location for families, as Eberwhite Elementary School is one of the highest-rated and most desirable schools in Ann Arbor.
Easy to Get Around
Ann Arbor is the perfect size, neither too big nor too small, which makes it easy to get around. You can get pretty much anywhere in the city in 20 minutes. It is also a walkable and bicycle-friendly city, with a high percentage of commuters walking to get to work. It has excellent bike lanes and walkways, which make it easy to stroll around town.
Delectable Culinary Scene
Ann Arbor is a food lover’s paradise. Ann Arbor features more restaurants per resident than any city in the U.S., including New York City and Chicago. No matter your culinary preferences, you can find spectacular meals in Ann Arbor’s restaurants. Plenty of renowned chefs have restaurants in the city, including Chef Alex Young with Zingerman’s Roadhouse and Chef Takashi with Slurping Turtle. In addition to great food, Ann Arbor has embraced boutique spirits and artisan cocktail culture. There are a number of bars and breweries where residents can enjoy tasty flavors and innovative cocktails.
Ready to Move to Ann Arbor? Allied Van Lines Can Help
There is nothing quite like the excitement of moving to a new city. The picturesque neighborhoods, crisp air, and exciting culture in Ann Arbor make it one of the best places to live in the Midwest. As you prepare for your move, let the professionals at Allied Van Lines assist with the moving process. Moving is no easy feat, but with more than 95 years of experience in the industry, our team of movers knows exactly what it takes to execute a seamless move. Allied offers a comprehensive list of moving services to fit any budget, so call today or start by getting a free quote using our convenient Instaquote tool.