Key Points:
- Ann Arbor 2nd Best College Town: Strong academics and student life.
- Student-Centered: 348 of 1,000 residents are students.
- Top in Michigan: Nationally behind only Austin, Texas.
Ann Arbor, home to the University of Michigan, has been ranked the Ann Arbor best college town in the United States, according to a new study by WalletHub.
The study analyzed over 400 U.S. cities, evaluating them on 31 factors related to academics, social life, and economic opportunities for students. WalletHub’s findings highlight Ann Arbor’s strong academic reputation, vibrant campus environment, and growing student population, making it one of the top destinations for higher education in the nation.
Academic and Social Strengths
WalletHub ranked Ann Arbor 22nd for academic and economic opportunities and 29th for social environment, reflecting the city’s balance between quality education and student life. The study also revealed that 348 out of every 1,000 residents in Ann Arbor are students, underscoring its reputation as a true college-centered community and one of the most notable Ann Arbor best college town locations in the U.S.
According to Chip Lupo, an analyst at WalletHub, the surrounding environment plays a key role in a student’s college experience. “Picking the right college is crucial, but it’s also important to make sure that the surrounding college town will be a place where you’ll truly love spending your college years,” he said.
Ann Arbor’s academic strength is largely attributed to the University of Michigan, one of the country’s top public universities known for its research programs, sports culture, and student engagement. The city also offers numerous internships and networking opportunities, helping students transition smoothly into professional careers.
Michigan Cities in the Rankings
Several other Michigan cities appeared in the study, highlighting the state’s broad higher education network. East Lansing, home to Michigan State University, ranked 40th, while Mount Pleasant, where Central Michigan University is located, came in at 88th. Grand Rapids followed at 96th, and Kalamazoo, known for Western Michigan University, ranked 162nd.
Smaller college towns such as Ypsilanti (182), Lansing (190), and Sterling Heights (278) also made the list, demonstrating the range of student communities across Michigan. Major cities like Detroit (319), Dearborn (321), and Flint (382) were also included. Among them all, Ann Arbor stands out as an Ann Arbor best college town.
National Context
The study named Austin, Texas—home to the University of Texas—as the best college town in America. Orlando and Tampa, Florida, along with Raleigh, North Carolina, completed the top five. These cities were recognized for strong academic programs, affordability, and dynamic student experiences.
Ann Arbor’s high placement in this national ranking reinforces its long-standing reputation as a hub for academic excellence and student innovation, confirming why it is an Ann Arbor best college town. With a mix of intellectual culture, community involvement, and access to opportunities, it continues to attract both domestic and international students seeking a well-rounded college experience.