Let the numbers do the talking.
Ann Arbor, MI vs Royal Oak, MI
Ann Arbor, MI vs Royal Oak, MI: What the data shows
Ann Arbor, MI is in Ann Arbor, MI while Royal Oak, MI is in Royal Oak, MI — both in the same state. On home prices, Royal Oak, MI is the more affordable option at $293,200 median — $191,800 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 Royal Oak, MI as “Good for now” — a solid choice worth serious consideration.
Both neighborhoods have similar safety profiles. Ann Arbor, MI has Moderate violent crime and Moderate property crime. Royal Oak, MI has Moderate violent crime and Moderate property crime. On environmental risk, Ann Arbor, MI has Low flood risk and Royal Oak, MI has Low flood risk.
Royal Oak, MI is the more walkable neighborhood. Ann Arbor, MI scores 39/100 (mostly car-dependent) versus Royal Oak, MI's 42/100 (mostly car-dependent). For families weighing school quality, Ann Arbor, MI has the higher school rating — Ann Arbor, MI rates 7/10 and Royal Oak, MI rates 6.8/10.
| Category | Ann Arbor, MI | Royal Oak, MI |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | ||
| Verdict | Think twice | Good for now |
| Median Price | $485K | $293K ✓ Lower price |
| Median Rent | $1K | $1K ✓ Lower rent |
| Median Income | $58K | $103K ✓ Higher income |
| Price Volatility | Moderate | Moderate |
| Getting Around | ||
| Walk Score | 39/100 | 42/100 ✓ More walkable |
| Transit Score | 20/100 | 30/100 ✓ Better transit |
| Bike Score | 18/100 | 31/100 ✓ More bikeable |
| Commute | 55 min | 19 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 ✓ Better schools | 6.8/10 |
| Best for | studentsacademicstech professionals | FamiliesProfessionalsStudents |
Bottom line
If you're willing to prioritize car reliance and high housing costs, Ann Arbor might be a good fit for students or academics who value the university's economy and culture. However, for most families, Royal Oak is the more practical choice due to its slightly more affordable housing and similar but more conveniently located schools. Ultimately, Royal Oak offers a more balanced lifestyle at a lower cost.
Share this comparison