Ann Arbor Housing Guide for University of Michigan Students

Ann Arbor: One of America's Best College Towns

Ann Arbor is consistently ranked among the top college towns in the United States — a city that has successfully balanced the energy of a major research university with the charm of a mid-sized Michigan city. The ann arbor housing market reflects this balance: it's competitive and occasionally expensive, but offers an enormous variety of options from efficiency apartments to large houses within walking distance of the University of Michigan's central campus. If you're ready to start your search,

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Central Campus and State Street Neighborhoods

The neighborhoods immediately surrounding U of M's Central Campus — particularly along State Street and South University Avenue — are the most in-demand. These streets put students within a 5–15 minute walk of virtually every major academic building on campus. The tradeoff is cost: one-bedrooms near Central Campus typically run $1,400–$2,200/month, and competition is fierce. Students who want to live in this zone should begin their search no later than January for a September move-in. Despite higher prices, walkability often saves on transportation costs.

Kerrytown and the Near North Side

Kerrytown is one of Ann Arbor's most characterful neighborhoods — home to the Ann Arbor Farmers Market, independent restaurants and specialty shops, and older homes and smaller apartment buildings. Located just north of Central Campus, it's a 10–20 minute walk to most U of M buildings. Ann arbor housing in Kerrytown tends to be slightly more affordable than the State Street corridor, with one-bedrooms averaging $1,200–$1,900/month. The neighborhood has a more community-oriented feel with longtime residents mixing alongside students.

Burns Park and the South Side of Ann Arbor

Burns Park is a residential neighborhood south of campus popular with graduate students and older undergrads who prefer quieter surroundings. Houses and upper-floor apartments offer a more suburban atmosphere while still being within biking or busing distance of Central Campus. Rents are somewhat variable — older single-family homes divided into apartments can be found for $1,000–$1,600/month for two-bedrooms, while newer construction runs higher. This is also where many student houses (shared among 3–6 people) are located, making it popular for groups.

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Ann Arbor Housing Cost of Living and Student Budget Guide

Ann Arbor is more expensive than many Midwest college towns but significantly cheaper than coastal cities. Monthly budget: Rent (single room in shared housing) $700–$1,100; Rent (one-bedroom solo) $1,200–$2,000; Utilities $80–$150 (Michigan winters can push heating costs up); Groceries $250–$400; Transportation (AATA bus is free for U of M students with MCard); Renters insurance $12–$22/month. Michigan winters are real — factor in heating costs and consider whether your unit has in-unit laundry.

Ann Arbor Renter Rights and Lease Tips

Michigan has strong tenant protections. Key points for U of M student renters: Security deposits cannot exceed 1.5 months' rent; landlords must return deposits within 30 days; Ann Arbor has a rental housing inspection program requiring landlords to maintain properties to code; if you sublet (common when studying abroad), confirm your lease allows it and get landlord approval in writing; many Ann Arbor leases run May to April — verify dates before signing. Ann Arbor's 15th District Court processes landlord-tenant cases relatively quickly.

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