Let the numbers do the talking.
Ann Arbor, MI vs Livonia, MI
Ann Arbor, MI vs Livonia, MI: What the data shows
Ann Arbor, MI is in Ann Arbor, MI while Livonia, MI is in Livonia, MI — both in the same state. On home prices, Livonia, MI is the more affordable option at $215,700 median — $269,300 less than Ann Arbor, MI's $485,000. WYLT rates Ann Arbor, MI as “Think twice” — a neighborhood that warrants careful research before committing — and Livonia, MI as “Think twice” — a neighborhood that warrants careful research before committing.
Both neighborhoods have similar safety profiles. Ann Arbor, MI has Moderate violent crime and Moderate property crime. Livonia, MI has Moderate violent crime and Moderate property crime. On environmental risk, Ann Arbor, MI has Low flood risk and Livonia, MI has Low flood risk.
Ann Arbor, MI is the more walkable neighborhood. Ann Arbor, MI scores 39/100 (mostly car-dependent) versus Livonia, MI's 9/100 (car-dependent). For families weighing school quality, Livonia, MI has the higher school rating — Ann Arbor, MI rates 7/10 and Livonia, MI rates 7.1/10.
| Category | Ann Arbor, MI | Livonia, MI |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | ||
| Verdict | Think twice | Think twice |
| Median Price | $485K | $216K ✓ Lower price |
| Median Rent | $1K | $1K ✓ Lower rent |
| Median Income | $58K | $91K ✓ Higher income |
| Price Volatility | Moderate | Moderate |
| Getting Around | ||
| Walk Score | 39/100 ✓ More walkable | 9/100 |
| Transit Score | 20/100 ✓ Better transit | 2/100 |
| Bike Score | 18/100 ✓ More bikeable | 2/100 |
| Commute | 55 min | 29 min ✓ Shorter commute |
| Safety & Environment | ||
| Safety Grade | D+ | D+ |
| Violent Crime | Moderate | Moderate |
| Property Crime | Moderate | Moderate |
| Flood Risk | Low | Low |
| Air Quality | Good ✓ Cleaner air | Moderate |
| Community | ||
| Schools | 7/10 | 7.1/10 ✓ Better schools |
| Best for | studentsacademicstech professionals | Families who need good schoolsCommuters to DetroitRetirees looking for affordable housing |
Bottom line
For families who value good schools, a shorter commute, and more affordable housing, Livonia is the better choice. However, for students, academics, or professionals seeking a vibrant college town experience, Ann Arbor might be the way to go, despite its high costs. Those with the means can also consider Ann Arbor's more robust job market and unique atmosphere, but for most, Livonia's trade-offs are more livable.
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