Let the numbers do the talking.
Ann Arbor, MI vs Troy, MI
Ann Arbor, MI vs Troy, MI: What the data shows
Ann Arbor, MI is in Ann Arbor, MI while Troy, MI is in Troy, MI — both in the same state. On home prices, Troy, MI is the more affordable option at $284,200 median — $200,800 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 Troy, 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. Troy, MI has Moderate violent crime and Moderate property crime. On environmental risk, Ann Arbor, MI has Low flood risk and Troy, MI has High flood risk.
Troy, MI is the more walkable neighborhood. Ann Arbor, MI scores 39/100 (mostly car-dependent) versus Troy, MI's 41/100 (mostly car-dependent). For families weighing school quality, Ann Arbor, MI has the higher school rating — Ann Arbor, MI rates 7/10 and Troy, MI rates 6.8/10.
| Category | Ann Arbor, MI | Troy, MI |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | ||
| Verdict | Think twice | Think twice |
| Median Price | $485K | $284K ✓ Lower price |
| Median Rent | $1K | $1K ✓ Lower rent |
| Median Income | $58K | $86K ✓ Higher income |
| Price Volatility | Moderate | Moderate |
| Getting Around | ||
| Walk Score | 39/100 | 41/100 ✓ More walkable |
| Transit Score | 20/100 ✓ Better transit | 10/100 |
| Bike Score | 18/100 ✓ More bikeable | N/A |
| Commute | 55 min | 26 min ✓ Shorter commute |
| Safety & Environment | ||
| Safety Grade | D+ | D+ |
| Violent Crime | Moderate | Moderate |
| Property Crime | Moderate | Moderate |
| Flood Risk | Low ✓ Lower risk | High |
| Air Quality | Good ✓ Cleaner air | Moderate |
| Community | ||
| Schools | 7/10 ✓ Better schools | 6.8/10 |
| Best for | studentsacademicstech professionals | FamiliesCommuters to DetroitRetirees seeking quiet |
Bottom line
Based on Ann Arbor's high housing costs and heavy car reliance, it's best suited for students, academics, or those who don't mind a long commute, while families and commuters to Detroit may prefer Troy due to its solid schools and quicker access to the city. Both areas have "think twice" verdicts, but Ann Arbor's high price tag is a more significant barrier. Overall, Troy is a more practical choice for most families and commuters.
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