Ann Arbor and Troy Rank Among Top 100 Best Places to Live in America for 2025
Two southeast Michigan cities have earned coveted spots on Livability’s prestigious “Top 100 Best Places to Live in the U.S.” list for 2025. Ann Arbor and Troy were recognized for their exceptional quality of life, economic opportunities, and community amenities, according to Yahoo Lifestyle.
The annual ranking, which evaluates cities with populations between 75,000 and 500,000, analyzes nearly 100 data points across multiple categories including economy, housing, cost of living, amenities, transportation, environment, safety, education, and health outcomes to determine the nation’s most livable mid-sized cities.
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Ann Arbor: A Vibrant University Town
Ann Arbor, home to the University of Michigan, received high praise in the Livability report, which described it as “a city with a youthful vibe, a wealth of amenities and a robust talent pool.” The city performed particularly well in the education and health categories, reflecting its world-class university and healthcare system, anchored by the University of Michigan Medical Center.
Beyond its academic prowess, Ann Arbor has garnered numerous accolades in recent years. The city was ranked #1 in U.S. News and World Report’s “Best Places to Live for Quality of Life” and topped StudyFinds’ “Best Places to Live in the U.S., According to Experts” list in 2023, according to Ann Arbor USA.
Troy: Safety and Economic Strength
Troy, a northern suburb of Detroit, also secured a position on the prestigious list, earning recognition for its exceptional safety record, strong school system, and economic vitality. The city website proudly describes Troy as a place “where families and businesses thrive,” backed by one of the lowest tax rates and highest safety rankings in the state.
With over 1,000 acres of parkland, two golf courses, a local nature center, and a historic village, Troy offers residents ample recreational opportunities. The city’s convenient location in Oakland County provides access to a robust job market while maintaining a suburban atmosphere that appeals to families and professionals alike.
Methodology Behind the Rankings
Livability partnered with Applied Geographic Solutions (AGS) to assign each evaluated city a “LivScore” based on its performance across the specified categories. According to published data, Troy received a score of 837, while Ann Arbor earned 732, both comfortably placing them among the nation’s top 100 most livable mid-sized cities.
The methodology places special emphasis on affordability, considering cities with median home values of $500,000 or less. This focus on financial accessibility sets Livability’s rankings apart from other “best places” lists that may emphasize more expensive coastal metropolitan areas.
Economic Opportunities in Both Cities
Both Ann Arbor and Troy boast diverse economic landscapes that offer significant opportunities for residents. Ann Arbor’s economy is anchored by education, healthcare, and a growing technology sector. The University of Michigan serves as the region’s largest employer with approximately 37,000 employees, while companies like ProQuest, NSF International, and Google maintain significant presences in the area.
Troy, meanwhile, has established itself as a corporate and retail hub, with numerous office parks and the upscale Somerset Collection shopping center. The city’s strategic location and business-friendly policies have attracted a wide range of industries, creating a stable economic environment for residents.
Quality of Life Factors
Beyond economic strength, both cities excel in quality of life metrics. Ann Arbor’s walkable downtown, diverse dining scene, and vibrant arts community contribute to its appeal. The city hosts numerous cultural events throughout the year, including the renowned Ann Arbor Art Fair, and offers residents access to extensive recreational opportunities along the Huron River.
Troy’s family-friendly atmosphere is enhanced by its exceptional park system, recreational facilities, and community events. The city’s commitment to maintaining green spaces and providing quality municipal services has helped create a high standard of living for residents of all ages.
Housing and Cost of Living
While housing affordability remains a challenge in many desirable communities nationwide, both Ann Arbor and Troy offer relative value compared to major coastal cities. According to Livability’s analysis, while the cost of living in Ann Arbor is slightly higher than the national average, with a median home value of approximately $430,301, it remains affordable compared to other technology and education hubs.
Troy similarly offers housing options across various price points, though specific median values were not included in the report. Both cities’ inclusion on the list suggests they provide reasonable housing costs relative to local incomes and economic opportunities.
Looking Forward
The recognition of Ann Arbor and Troy on this prestigious national ranking highlights the strength of southeast Michigan communities despite the economic challenges the region has faced in recent decades. These cities represent bright spots in Michigan’s urban landscape, demonstrating that the state continues to offer high-quality living environments that can compete with any region in the country.
As Michigan continues to diversify its economy and invest in community development, Ann Arbor and Troy serve as models for how mid-sized cities can balance growth with quality of life, creating environments where residents can truly thrive.
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