Ann Arbor Considered One of the Best Cities to Raise a Family

Named #5 in the Country; Local Parents Concur

One of the top places in the country to raise a family? 

To many local families, it was not a surprise that Niche’s latest list of the best cities to raise a family named Ann Arbor #6! 

These families know firsthand what a welcoming and inclusive place Ann Arbor is. We spoke with several of them to get their thoughts (and local recommendations) on the qualities that make Ann Arbor special. 

Niche ranks their cities based on quality and cost of local schools, family amenities, crime /safety, outdoor activities, walkability, and more. 

Emily Otto, a local entrepreneurial mother who founded Rebelle, INC., loves Ann Arbor for its convenient walkability and vast outdoor activities. “There are so many glorious parks, wooded areas, and playgrounds,” she says. Her favorite recommendations are Domino’s Farms and the Leslie Science and Nature Center, since they provide opportunities to interact with animals year-round.

Children are amazed by the exhibits at the Hands on Museum in downtown Ann Arbor. Image courtesy of Hands-On Museum.

Children are amazed by the exhibits at the Hands on Museum in downtown Ann Arbor. Image courtesy of Hands-On Museum.

Abby, mother of two boys, loves the balance between indoor and outdoor activities: from the parks, to the hiking trails, to the raptors at the Leslie Science and Nature Center. “I love that there are many free or affordable activities for children to do indoors when it’s too cold outside on these chilly winter days. The 2/42 Community Church indoor playground, the Ann Arbor Rec and Ed program, and local swim lessons are a few places we have frequented this winter.” 

Nessa A., mother and local musician with Wakefire, loves the Ann Arbor libraries. “They are one of the finest I’ve ever been a member of! Their programming is fantastic, their children’s areas are fun and inviting, and of course their book selection is vast and up-to-date.” For families with young kids, Nessa highly recommends the Hands-on Museum’s annual membership.

Image courtesy of Leslie Science and Nature Center

Rachel, mother and Montessori teacher, agrees. “The best thing about Ann Arbor with children is the museums. Trick-or-treating at the Natural History Museum, mom-and-son art classes at the museum of art, and exploring the Kelsey Museum of Archaeology have been wonderful experiences as my boys have grown up. Not to mention the Hands-On Museum!”

Local father, Daniel A., enjoys the multigenerational appeal of the many festivals Ann Arbor hosts. “I love local events like Festifools, Art Fair, and the various musical festivals–all of which are a great chance for our kiddo to enjoy the city in car-free areas.” He also recommends the several farmer’s markets and micro events hosted at Braun Court for similar reasons, and appreciates the social exposure and awareness that can easily generate interest or conversation with one’s children and teens from “the constant influx of presentations and protests on the Diag”. 

This weekend, take time to enjoy one of the country’s best towns for families and all it has to offer!