Game 12: Saturday, November 30, 2024 | Michigan vs. Ohio | Ohio Stadium | Noon
Today, the Michigan Wolverines head to Columbus to face their arch-rival, the Ohio State Buckeyes. With a season full of highs and challenges, Michigan is determined to finish strong in this iconic matchup. Let’s take a closer look at what makes this game special and how the two university towns—Ann Arbor and Columbus—compare.
Ann Arbor, MI vs. Columbus, OH: By the Numbers
The Michigan-Ohio State rivalry transcends the gridiron, reflecting the unique character and strengths of their home cities. Columbus towers over Ann Arbor with a population of 913,175 compared to Ann Arbor’s 119,381. As Ohio’s state capital, Columbus benefits from a dynamic metropolitan area with diverse industries, while Ann Arbor’s smaller size reflects its university-centered community.
Economic Indicators: Income, Cost of Living, and Employment
While both cities are shaped by their universities, their economic landscapes tell different stories:
- Median Household Income: Ann Arbor’s median household income is $78,546, higher than Columbus’s $62,994. This disparity underscores Ann Arbor’s tech-driven economy and high-paying jobs in healthcare and education.
- Cost of Living: Columbus has a cost-of-living index of 100.2, slightly higher than Ann Arbor’s 99.5. Both cities offer comparable affordability for residents, though Columbus’s larger economy provides broader options for housing and services.
- Unemployment Rate: Ann Arbor edges out Columbus with a lower unemployment rate of 3.6% versus Columbus’s 4.2%. Both cities benefit from strong university-driven job markets.
Education and Research: Comparing Academic Strengths
Both Michigan and Ohio State are recognized as top-tier research universities with national reputations.
- Educational Attainment: Ann Arbor shines with 77.5% of residents aged 25 and older holding a bachelor’s degree or higher, reflecting its highly educated workforce. Columbus, while a larger city, has 38.3% of residents with a bachelor’s degree or higher, showcasing its diverse but less concentrated academic profile.
- University Enrollment and Graduates: Ohio State enrolled 60,540 students in Fall 2022, surpassing Michigan’s 51,225. However, both universities awarded nearly the same number of degrees in 2022-2023, with Michigan at 16,132 and Ohio State at 16,319.
- Research and Development (R&D) Expenditures: Michigan remains a national leader in research with $1.77 billion spent in 2022 (ranked #4), compared to Ohio State’s impressive $1.36 billion (ranked #11). Both schools significantly contribute to academic and technological advancements.
Looking Ahead
This rivalry game is about more than football—it’s about pride, tradition, and a clash of two powerhouse programs. Michigan will look to reclaim glory on Ohio State’s turf, while the Buckeyes aim to defend their home advantage.
Beyond the field, Ann Arbor and Columbus reflect the vibrancy of their respective regions, from Ann Arbor’s innovation-driven community to Columbus’s role as a state capital and cultural hub. No matter the outcome, this game is sure to be an unforgettable chapter in one of college football’s greatest rivalries.
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.
In case you missed it, here are links to the regional comparisons we’ve posted so far this season:
Game 1: Ann Arbor vs. Fresno, CA
Game 2: Ann Arbor vs. Austin, TX
Game 3: Ann Arbor vs. Jonesboro, AR
Game 4: Ann Arbor vs. Los Angeles, CA
Game 5: Ann Arbor vs. Minneapolis, MN
Game 6: Ann Arbor vs. Seattle, WA
Game 7: Ann Arbor vs. Urbana-Champaign, IL
Game 8: Ann Arbor vs. East Lansing, MI
Game 9: Ann Arbor vs. Eugene, OR
Game 10: Ann Arbor vs. Bloomington, IN
Game 11: Ann Arbor vs. Evanston, IL
