Ann Arbor is a great place to live, but don’t take our word for it! Our beloved city has been named one of the best places in the country to live by Niche, one of the best cities to raise a family in America by Livability, and one of the best cities for millennials by Mayflower. And those are just some of the reasons you should consider moving here.

When you do decide to move, it can be hard to decide where to settle down. That’s why we rounded up some of the hottest neighborhoods in the Ann Arbor area, all of which are fantastic places to live. No matter who you are or what you’re looking for, there’s a home waiting for you.

Please note that these are just a few examples of Ann Arbor’s thriving and amazing neighborhoods. For a larger list of local neighborhoods, visit our communities page.

For the Foodie — Downtown

Downtown Ann Arbor is the headquarters of culture, small business and local events in town, so it makes sense that the area would be home to some of the best restaurants in the area—like the Fleetwood Diner, Vinology, and Sava’s!

Bordered by the University of Michigan campus, West Park and Kerrytown, this neighborhood isn’t just for people who are really into great food. It’s also suited for families, shoppers, students, socialites and anyone who likes to spend time outside.

Other neighborhood highlights: Grizzly Peak Brewing Company, Logan, Comet Coffee, Ann Arbor Hands On Museum, and Nickel’s Arcade.

 

For the Outdoor Enthusiast — Lakewood

Located off of Jackson Road, west of Interstate 94, Lakewood is a beautiful subdivision surrounded by trees and lovingly designed homes. And even though this quaint slice of serenity feels away from it all, it’s just a short distance from a plethora of entertainment opportunities like the Westgate Shopping Center, the Quality-16 Movie Theater, and downtown.

Outdoor enthusiasts will love strolling along the tree-lined streets and exploring Dolph Park, a 57-acre nature area with woods and nature trails. And we can’t forget Sister and Second Sister Lakes, where this quiet neighborhood got its name!

Other neighborhood highlights: Liberty Athletic Club, Songbird Baking Company, Harmony Hollow Bell Works, and Weber’s Hotel & Restaurant.

 

For the First-Time Homebuyer — Darlington

Located on Ann Arbor’s southeast side, Darlington Subdivision features modest homes in a beautiful, mature setting. Comprised mainly of bungalow and Cape Cod-style homes at an affordable price range, Darlington is a wonderful neighborhood for the first-time homebuyer.

Plus, it isn’t too far away from the hustle and bustle of the city! Just a short distance away is the Arborland Center, Whole Foods and a variety of restaurants. And there are nearby freeways for an easy commute to downtown Ann Arbor.

Other neighborhood highlights: Sylvan Park, Galleria Market, Cobblestone Farm, Redbud Nature Center, and Paesano Restaurant & Wine Bar.

 

For the Homebody — Eberwhite

For those of us who love the small-town vibe, getting to know your neighbors, and becoming a “regular” at a local business—the tight-knit community of Eberwhite is the place to be. Plus, since downtown is right next door, you won’t even need to hop in a car or a bus to enjoy everything the city has to offer! Eberwhite is the perfect place for those who don’t like to venture very far from home, since you’ll have everything you’ll ever need in one convenient and incredible location.

Throughout this area, you’ll find a variety of well-maintained homes that will appeal to all ages and demographics. And if it’s a good school that’s on your list of “must-haves,” Eberwhite Elementary School is one of the highest-rated and most desirable schools in Ann Arbor.

Other neighborhood highlights: The Jefferson Market, the Eberwhite Nature Area, Holiday’s Restaurant, Chela’s Restaurant & Taqueria, and Wolverine State Brewing.

 

For the Trendsetter — Ann Arbor Woods

If you like to be ahead of the curve, the hidden gem of Ann Arbor Woods is definitely for you! Situated next to both Buhr Park and County Farm Park, this slept-on neighborhood features all sorts of recreation. And the proximity to downtown means you’ll never be too far from the action.

Most of the homes in this area were built in the 1950s and ‘60s, but have been outfitted with all of our favorite modern amenities and are settled along tree-lined, hilly streets. And the best part? The average home price for this area has been going down significantly in the past few years—so make sure to get in before everyone else discovers how amazing Ann Arbor Woods is!

Other neighborhood highlights: Bigalora Wood Fired Cucina, Washtenaw County Parks & Rec, Bearclaw Coffee, Manchester Park, and the Pollinator Garden.

For the Creative — Kerrytown

Kerrytown is a charming neighborhood located just a few blocks north of Main Street in downtown Ann Arbor. Centered around Kerrytown Market & Shops, the neighborhood is home to the year-round Ann Arbor Farmers’ Market, the Jim Toy Community Center, annual events like Kerrytown KindleFest, beloved restaurants like Miss Kim and The Lunch Room, as well as tons of local shops and services.

But Kerrytown isn’t just a center for delectable restaurants and amazing shops, it’s also home to the Ann Arbor Hands On Museum, several art studios and galleries, and the iconic Kerrytown Concert House where you can see interesting shows all year long.

Other neighborhood highlights: Teahaus, Aut Bar, The Rope Yoga Collective, 16 Hands, FOUND, and Motte & Bailey Booksellers. Want to learn more about the area? We have an entire guide!

 

For Luxury Lovers — Burns Park

One of Ann Arbor’s most desirable and expensive neighborhoods, Burns Park is composed of beautiful old homes set around the historic Burns Park. The neighborhood itself used to be the County Fair Grounds and now serves as a community destination for students, kids, parents, and everyone who calls Ann Arbor home.

With Burns Park Elementary right next door, both the park and the neighborhood are fantastic choices for families. And because the amazing location puts you within a short distance of all the attractions in South Main: Michigan Stadium, Yost Ice Arena, Wilpon Baseball and Softball Complex, and more—young professionals find themselves in love with this area too.

Other neighborhood highlights: Revel and Roll, Frisinger Park, Rose and White Park, Black Diesel Coffee, Toarminas Pizza, and Mi Compadre.

 

For Those with an Active Lifestyle — South Main

If you’re someone who loves sports and anything else active, the South Main neighborhood is practically perfect for you! This area is centered around South Main Street, which runs from the heart of downtown Ann Arbor all the way down to Eisenhower Parkway and Briarwood Mall.

Here, you’ll not only be super close to the Michigan Stadium and Crisler Center where you can catch a few games, you’ll also just be a short jaunt away from the University of Michigan Golf Course and the Yost Ice Arena.

Other neighborhood highlights: Craft Breww City, Mr. Spots, Sushi Town, and Allmendinger Park.

 

For Those Raising a Family — Foxfire

Located on the northeast side of Ann Arbor, the Foxfire subdivision is off of Dhu Varren, between Nixon and Pontiac Trail. Just minutes from the University of Michigan’s north campus, medical center and downtown Ann Arbor conveniences, it’s a great place for those who still want to enjoy city life without living in the middle of it.

Plus, the healthy economic state, natural areas, amazing school system and fantastic home options make this neighborhood perfect for families of any shape and size.

Other neighborhood highlights: Carson’s American Bistro, Leslie Park Golf Course, Olson Park, and Traver Creek Nature Area.
 

For the Music and Theater Aficionado — West Park

Just northeast of downtown Ann Arbor, this lush neighborhood is centered around West Park itself. The expansive community space offers acres of greenery, family fun and some of the most beautiful oak trees in town.

The park also offers a historic archway entry and a bandshell for fair weather concerts which puts residents at the heart of the local, outdoor music scene! And, because of this area’s proximity to the Ann Arbor Civic Theater, a plethora of cultural shows and performances are just a short distance away.

Other neighborhood highlights: Tasty Bakery, Ann Arbor School of Yoga, Mighty Good Coffee, Heidelberg Restaurant, and the Ann Arbor Distilling Company.

 

For the History Buff — Old West Side

Most of the Old West Side is located in a historic district which serves to maintain the character and the architecture of the neighborhood. The north side of the neighborhood overlaps with downtown Ann Arbor and the south end puts you within walking distance of Allmendinger Park and Michigan Stadium!

But inside the borders of Old West Side, you’ll also find plenty of charm, gorgeous homes and tree-lined streets as well as local businesses and attractions for residents, families and children of all ages.

Other neighborhood highlights: Washtenaw Dairy, Blank Slate Creamery, Waterworks Park, Argus Museum, Wurster Park, Jolly Pumpkin Cafe & Brewery, and Sweet Gem Confections.

 

Which one is right for you?

Did you fall in love with one of these incredible neighborhoods? We don’t blame you! Give us a call or check out our advanced search tool—we’d be happy to help you find your dream home!