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What makes A2 great: Appreciation

So **yawn** Ann Arbor was once again chosen as one of the top Best Cities in the good old US of A. Of course we're kidding about the yawn. But it happens so often, it could get routine if it weren't so darn flattering and deserved.

Here's MLive's story on the most recent tribute:

Ann Arbor ranks 4th in website's Best Cities to Live in America

Ann Arbor is among the best places to live in the United States, according to a new report...

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According to the story: "The ranking is based on crime, public schools, cost of living, housing trends, employment, job opportunities and local amenities...."

Here's how Niche.com ranked A2 in each category :

  • Cost of Living: C-

  • Education: A+

  • Public Schools: A+

  • Real Estate: B-

  • Diversity: A

  • Health & Fitness: A+

  • Nightlife: A+

  • Shortest Commute: A+

  • Crime & Safety: B

  • Family Amenities: A

  • Jobs: B+

  • Outdoor Activities: B

  • Weather: C+

At first glance, the Real Estate grade could seem like a big "ouch" for us, but it's really not. It's judging the overall market: "Niche's Real Estate Grade captures the overall strength of an area's real estate market by incorporating statistics that measure trends in housing prices, affordability, and homeownership rates." 

And if Niche.com's grade is heavily weighted on housing prices, we have a different view: It's a sign of the robust recovery of Ann Arbor's market. Homes are being snapped up and the competition is pushing up the prices. 


Median Rent
$1,042

National Average: $904


Median Home Value
$231,700

National Average: $176,700

On this inside page at Niche.com are comments from townies and gownies. Here's a sampling: 

I live in a dorm on the University of Michigan's North Campus. My experience with Ann Arbor has been amazing! I love the people, atmosphere and all the fun things to do every day!

The food is amazing! It doesn't matter where I go.

I love Ann Arbor. It's a small town with big city attractions. There is something here for everyone here and it's so diverse and welcoming.

Of course there are detractors, too, many of whom complain about parking.

Turns out Ann Arbor Spark has been keeping track of the city's and the University of Michigan's placement in the "Best of" rankings since 2006. Here's its list of more than 100 articles of accolades. 

Facts & Rankings - Ann Arbor Area

Review our rankings to see why the Ann Arbor area is one cool place to work and live. ...

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Top photo: Ann Arbor Summer Fest 2016 featured Saurus (really stilt-walkers) that walked through the crowds with amazing gaits in front of Rackham Hall and throughout Ingalls Mall. 

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