Student Accommodation Ann Arbor (Michigan)

Ann Arbor, ranked among the best places to live in Midwestern Michigan, is home to the University of Michigan and offers a variety of student apartments in Ann Arbor. Finding student accommodation in Ann Arbor is straightforward, thanks to the many affordable options available. Purpose-built student accommodations (PBSAs) stand out as the top choice for budget-friendly off-campus housing. You can explore a wide range of listings on University Living, the go-to platform for securing the best student housing in Ann Arbor tailored to your needs.

Off-campus housing in Ann Arbor includes an impressive selection of options designed specifically for students, such as student apartments, studios, suite rooms, and ensuite rooms. These accommodations are unique because they cater exclusively to student lifestyles. On University Living, you can filter your search based on location, price, amenities, and personal preferences to find the perfect fit.

Student apartments in Ann Arbor come equipped with world-class amenities like study rooms, gyms, balconies, terraces, centralized AC, computer labs, common areas, washers, and dryers, ensuring a comfortable and convenient living experience.

With so many student rentals in Ann Arbor listed on University Living, finding a place near your university is hassle-free. Our dedicated team is available 24/7 to guide you through the booking process, whether you’re planning ahead for a study abroad program or need last-minute student housing in Ann Arbor. Discover, compare, and book value-for-money student living in Ann Arbor with us today and explore these best student accommodation properties in Ann Arbor! 

When searching for student accommodation in Ann Arbor, certain factors can elevate your living experience. Look for safe, secure student housing in Ann Arbor with excellent accessibility, top-notch amenities, and reliable services. Below, we outline three main types of student accommodation available to help you make an informed choice.

Student Housing

Student housing in Ann Arbor provides all-inclusive benefits tailored to student needs. These accommodations come with amenities such as study rooms, laundry facilities, bicycle storage, gyms, communal gardens, parking, and even pet-friendly options. You can explore the full range of features and listings on University Living’s website.

Private Apartments

Private student apartments in Ann Arbor offer flexible options, from solo occupancy to shared living spaces. These fully furnished apartments include essentials like comfortable beds, wardrobes, tables, chairs, windows, private or shared bathrooms, and modern kitchens. Equipped with contemporary facilities, they ensure a convenient and stylish living experience.

University Halls

On-campus university halls in Ann Arbor differ from private accommodations, as they are typically located within or very close to the University of Michigan’s campus. These halls provide a unique, community-focused environment ideal for students seeking proximity to academic buildings.

To discover some of the top student housing options in the city, visit University Living for detailed insights and recommendations on the best accommodations in Ann Arbor.

Ann Arbor, Michigan, is a city where student aspirations flourish, offering a perfect blend of academic excellence, cultural vibrancy, and career opportunities. Known as the home of the University of Michigan, it’s a hub for learning and innovation, attracting over 50,000 students, including thousands from across the globe.

Ann Arbor ranks among the best places to live in the Midwest and is celebrated for its student-friendly environment. With a prestigious university, thriving arts scene, and welcoming community, it’s no wonder students thrive here.

Facts About Ann Arbor

• Ann Arbor has a population of approximately 120,000.
• It’s nicknamed “Tree Town” for its lush greenery and over 50,000 trees.
• The University of Michigan, founded in 1817, enrolls over 50,000 students.
• Ann Arbor hosts the world’s largest college football stadium, “The Big House,” seating over 107,000.
• The city was named after founders’ wives, both called Ann, and its oak groves in 1824.

Finding the perfect student accommodation in Ann Arbor depends on affordability, safety, and proximity to the University of Michigan. Below are five top student-friendly areas in Ann Arbor, each featuring outstanding housing options from University Living with modern amenities to elevate your university experience.

1. South Main Street – Vibrant and Central

• South Main Street, just south of downtown, buzzes with energy and is close to campus and attractions like the Ann Arbor Hands-On Museum. It’s ideal for students who thrive in a lively, urban setting.
• Ideal for: Students seeking a dynamic, connected lifestyle.
• Top accommodation: The Yard 

2. East University Avenue – Campus Core

• Nestled next to Central Campus, East University Avenue offers unbeatable access to lecture halls, cafes, and the Michigan Theater, minimizing commutes for busy students.
• Ideal for: Students prioritizing walk-to-class convenience.
• Top accommodation: Six11 

3. South Division – Budget-Friendly and Convenient

• South of campus, South Division provides affordable housing in a quieter, student-friendly area, with Kroger Pharmacy and Arbor Farms Market nearby for everyday needs.
• Ideal for: Students looking for value and accessibility.
• Top accommodation: 915 South Division

4. East Washington Street – Cozy and Community-Driven

• A short walk from downtown, East Washington Street combines charm with proximity to the University of Michigan Museum of Art, fostering a warm, neighborhood vibe.
• Ideal for: Students wanting a homey feel near campus.
• Top accommodation: Younion

5. Erie Drive – Spacious and Modern

• Located north of campus, Erie Drive offers larger, modern apartments in a peaceful setting, perfect for students craving space and easy bus access to campus.
• Ideal for: Students seeking independence and room to relax.

These Ann Arbor neighborhoods deliver safe, comfortable, and well-equipped student housing to enhance your university journey. Ready to find your ideal home? Check out these properties on University Living today!

The cost of living in Ann Arbor for students varies based on factors like housing, food, transportation, and personal spending habits. On average, students should budget between $1,200–$2,300 per month to cover essential expenses, excluding tuition. Below is a breakdown of typical costs, along with tips to manage your budget effectively, drawing on housing options from University Living.

Breakdown of Student Expenses in Ann Arbor:

• Rent for Student Housing: $800–$1,500 per month, depending on location and type (shared apartments, studios, or PBSAs). For example, The Yard starts at ~$1,200/month for shared units, while 915 South Division offers rooms from ~$850/month.
• Food & Groceries: $200–$350 per month. Cooking at home (groceries from Arbor Farms or Kroger) costs ~$200–$250, while occasional dining at places like Zingerman’s Deli can push it higher.
• Gas & Electricity: $100–$200 per month. Many PBSAs, like Six11, include utilities, but private apartments may require splitting these costs.
• Internet & Mobile Phone: $50–$150 per month. High-speed Wi-Fi is often included in accommodations like Younion; mobile plans vary by provider.
• Dining Out: $100–$300 per month, depending on frequency. Budget-friendly spots like Fleetwood Diner keep costs low, while upscale dining can add up.
• Laundry: $30–$80 per month. Properties like The One Trinity include in-unit washers/dryers, but coin-operated machines elsewhere cost ~$2–$3 per load.
• Stationery & Textbooks: $50–$150 per month. Used books or digital versions from the University of Michigan Library can reduce expenses.
• Clothing & Shopping: $100–$200 per month, depending on needs. Thrift stores and student discounts at Briarwood Mall help stretch budgets.
• Travel Costs: $0–$60 per month. Biking or walking is free in compact Ann Arbor, but a TheRide bus pass costs ~$50 for unlimited rides. Students get free campus shuttles.

How Can Students Save on Living Costs in Ann Arbor?

Students can keep expenses manageable with smart choices:

• Choose Affordable Housing: Opt for shared apartments or PBSAs near campus, like 915 South Division (~$850/month), to cut rent and transport costs. Explore options on University Living.
• Cook at Home: Shop at budget-friendly stores like Aldi or Trader Joe’s and meal prep to keep food costs closer to $200/month instead of $350.
• Use Student Discounts: Take advantage of University of Michigan student ID perks for deals on food (e.g., Maize & Blue Cupboard), entertainment (e.g., Michigan Theater), and software.
• Bike or Walk: Ann Arbor’s bike-friendly streets and free campus shuttles reduce reliance on buses or cars, potentially dropping transport costs to $0.
• Share Utilities: In private rentals, split Wi-Fi, electricity, and gas with roommates to lower bills to ~$50–$100/person.
• Buy Used or Rent Textbooks: Use the library, buy second-hand books at Dawn Treader Book Shop, or rent digitally to spend ~$50/month instead of $150.

By planning wisely and leveraging Ann Arbor’s student-friendly resources, you can enjoy a fulfilling university experience while keeping costs in check. Start your housing search with University Living to find budget-friendly accommodations that suit your needs!

Ann Arbor offers a highly accessible public transportation system tailored to students, making it easy to travel affordably and efficiently. With buses, campus shuttles, and cycling, students can navigate the city and the University of Michigan campus with ease. Below are the best transport options for students, along with details on discounts to keep costs low.

Public Transport Options for Students in Ann Arbor:

• Buses (TheRide): The Ann Arbor Area Transportation Authority (AAATA) operates TheRide, a bus network connecting downtown, campus, and surrounding areas like Ypsilanti. Buses run from 6 a.m. to midnight on weekdays, with slightly reduced weekend schedules. Single fares cost $1.50, but University of Michigan students ride free with a valid yellow MCard, making it ideal for getting to class or exploring downtown.
• University Blue Buses: These free shuttles, branded with “University of Michigan,” link Central, North, and Medical campuses every 10–20 minutes. They’re perfect for quick, no-cost trips to lectures, libraries, or dorms, especially for students living near campus.
• Cycling: Ann Arbor’s 100+ miles of bike lanes and bike-friendly streets make cycling a popular, eco-friendly choice. With bike racks across campus and in neighborhoods like Kerrytown, students can commute for free, spending only ~$50–$100/year on maintenance or rentals through programs like ArborBike.
• FlexRide: TheRide’s on-demand service provides curb-to-curb rides during late-night hours or holidays when regular buses aren’t available. Priced at $1.50 (free with MCard), it’s a safe, flexible option for students needing transport outside standard schedules. Book via the FlexRide app or by phone.

Are There Student Discount Cards for Travel in Ann Arbor?

Yes, Ann Arbor provides student-specific benefits to reduce commuting expenses:

• MCard (University of Michigan ID): University of Michigan students with a valid yellow MCard get free access to TheRide’s fixed-route buses and University Blue Buses, covering most travel needs. No additional card is required—just present your MCard to save ~$50/month on fares.
• TheRide Youth Discounts: K–12 students with a valid student ID pay half-fare ($0.75) on TheRide buses, though university students typically use the MCard. Non-university students can buy 30-day passes for $29 at Blake Transit Center or online for extra savings.

Budgeting for Transport

• Monthly Cost: $0–$60. MCard holders spend nothing on buses, and cyclists keep costs near zero. Students without an MCard or those using buses occasionally might budget $30–$60 for fares or passes.
• Money-Saving Tip: Live near campus in areas like South University or East Washington to walk or bike, eliminating transport costs entirely.

With free bus access for University of Michigan students, extensive bike infrastructure, and flexible late-night options, Ann Arbor’s transport system is both convenient and budget-friendly. Embrace these options to make your student life seamless and stress-free!

Matthaei Botanical Gardens

If you are into the flora, you can visit this botanical garden in Ann Arbor. It is an indoor conservatory with trails to explore a whole range of plant life and their thriving areas. There's also a lake garden, bonsai garden, herb area, rock garden and sitting garden.

Michigan Theater

If you love theaters, concerts and independent film, this theater is a hop away from the University of Michigan. It was made in Renaissance style in 1925, making it a very old theater in the state. It is also an auditorium that holds many lectures. There are visual films available for 48 hours once you play.

Ann Arbor Hands-On Museum and Leslie Science & Nature Center

It is a science museum with an interactive science exhibition for all age groups. If you are a science freak and want to know more about science and technology, you can visit and discover it through education, experimentation and exploration.