Quick answer
Ann Arbor has 5 notable neighborhoods. Median 1BR rent is $1,250/mo citywide. Top picks: Downtown / State Street, Central Campus / South University, North Campus / Geddes.
Neighborhood Guide · 2026
Best Neighborhoods in Ann Arbor
5 areas ranked by vibe, walkability, and affordability. Median 1BR rent: $1,250/mo. State income tax: 4.25%.
All 5 Neighborhoods
Downtown / State Street
Walkable, vibrant, college vibe. State Street has shops, restaurants, bars. Walkable to UMich campus. Rents $1,400-1,700/month 1BR. Lively weekends but loud.
Central Campus / South University
Near UMich campus. Student rentals dominate. Rents $1,100-1,350/month 1BR (older homes). High turnover; party scene. 5-minute walk to campus.
North Campus / Geddes
Residential, quieter. Families and graduate students. Older homes ($400-500K) with character. Tree-lined streets. 10-15 minute walk to campus.
West Ann Arbor
Suburban, quieter, family-friendly. Homes $475-600K. Parks and schools. 5-10 minutes to downtown by car.
Kerrytown
Eclectic, artistic, quirky. Michigan Farmers Market is here. Independent shops and galleries. Homes $425-500K. Popular with artists and creative professionals.
Ann Arbor at a Glance
Median 1BR
$1,250
Median home
$485K
Walk score
75/100
State tax
4.25%
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best neighborhoods in Ann Arbor?
Ann Arbor's top neighborhoods include Downtown / State Street, Central Campus / South University, North Campus / Geddes. Walkable, vibrant, college vibe. State Street has shops, restaurants, bars. Walkable to UMich campus. Rents $1,400-1,700/month 1BR. Lively weekends but loud.
What is the safest neighborhood in Ann Arbor?
Ann Arbor safety varies by area. For up-to-date crime data by neighborhood, check the Ann Arbor police department's public crime map. Generally, established residential areas with lower vacancy rates tend to have lower crime rates.
How much does it cost to rent in Ann Arbor?
City-wide median 1BR rent in Ann Arbor is $1,250/mo, 2BR is $1,550/mo. Prices vary by neighborhood — central and trendy areas run above the median, outer residential areas below.