Game 1: Saturday, August 31, 2024| Michigan vs. Fresno State | Michigan Stadium | 7:30 PM
Ann Arbor SPARK’s popular football blog series is back for Michigan’s 145th season! As we dive into another exciting year of college football, we’re excited to once again use the season as an opportunity to compare Ann Arbor to cities around the country represented by our U-M football competition. The question is always—how does Ann Arbor stack up against other college towns in the U.S.?
As the final days of summer give way to the heart of football season, there’s a buzz of excitement in the air that only this time of year can bring. At SPARK, we’re eager to kick off our annual tradition of comparing Ann Arbor to the cities represented by U-M’s football opponents. This series gives us a chance to explore the unique qualities of these regions while celebrating the spirit of competition. Settle in and join us as we dive into the 2024-2025 football season with fresh insights and comparisons!
The Wolverines begin their season this weekend, facing off against the Fresno State Bulldogs at the Big House. Fresno State, hailing from the Mountain West Conference (MWC), brings a strong athletic tradition and deep roots in California’s Central Valley to the field.
Fresno, with a population of just over 545,000, dwarfs Ann Arbor’s population of about 120,000. Despite the size difference, both cities are deeply connected to their respective universities, which serve as key drivers of the local economy and culture.
When it comes to economic indicators, Ann Arbor and Fresno present some notable contrasts. Ann Arbor’s highly educated workforce, with nearly 80 percent of residents aged 25 or older holding a bachelor’s degree or higher, is reflected in its median household income of $78,546. Fresno, where about 24 percent of the population holds a bachelor’s degree or higher, has a median household income of $63,001. As expected, the cost of living in Fresno County is higher than in Washtenaw County, with an index of 122.8 compared to Ann Arbor’s 99.5.
The economic structure and challenges of Fresno and Ann Arbor are also reflected in their unemployment rates. Fresno’s economy, heavily reliant on agriculture, is vulnerable to seasonal job fluctuations, water scarcity, and automation, contributing to a higher unemployment rate of 7.7% as of June 2024. Additionally, lower levels of education and a higher poverty rate in Fresno limit economic diversification and access to higher-paying jobs.
In contrast, Ann Arbor’s diversified economy—driven by education, technology, and research and supported by the University of Michigan—results in a lower unemployment rate of 4.2%. Ann Arbor’s strong economic base and access to high-skilled jobs make it more resilient to economic fluctuations compared to Fresno.
Looking Ahead
As we compare Ann Arbor to other college towns this football season, it’s clear that our community stands out with its unique blend of innovation, culture, and educational excellence. Ann Arbor’s tech-driven economy, fueled by the University of Michigan’s world-class research and vibrant student population, continues to thrive and attract talent from around the globe. As U-M continues to enroll more than 50,000 students each year, we are reminded of the university’s enduring appeal and its crucial role in shaping the region.
Ann Arbor is more than just a college town; it’s a hub of creativity and entrepreneurship, where ideas flourish, and the future is being built every day. As we cheer on the Wolverines, we also celebrate the dynamic community that makes Ann Arbor a leader in so many fields. Whether you’re a long-time resident or new to the area, there’s no better time to appreciate all that Ann Arbor has to offer.
Stay tuned throughout the season as we continue to explore how Ann Arbor compares to other college towns across the nation. Go Blue!
Want to Learn More?
If you’re interested in discovering more about what makes Ann Arbor a thriving community, our business development team at SPARK is here to help. We can connect you with detailed data, resources, and insights about the region to support your business decisions or relocation plans. Contact us today to learn how we can assist you in tapping into the opportunities that Ann Arbor has to offer.
