Game 11: Saturday, November 23, 2024 | Michigan vs. Indiana | Michigan Stadium | 3:30 PM
The Michigan Wolverines are set to face the Northwestern Wildcats on November 23 at Michigan Stadium in what promises to be an exciting Big Ten matchup. After a challenging season, Michigan looks to end their home schedule on a high note in front of a packed Big House crowd.
Ann Arbor, MI vs. Evanston, IL
Ann Arbor’s population is 119,381, notably larger than Evanston’s 75,070. Ann Arbor’s growth reflects its role as a regional hub for education, innovation, and economic activity, while Evanston’s size is influenced by its proximity to Chicago. Here’s how these two college towns compare:
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: Evanston’s median household income is $93,188, outpacing Ann Arbor’s $78,546. This reflects Evanston’s proximity to Chicago and its access to higher-paying urban job markets.
- Cost of Living: Evanston’s cost of living index is 126.1, significantly higher than Ann Arbor’s 99.5. Living in Evanston comes with a steeper price tag, a reflection of its location and economic base.
- Unemployment Rate: Ann Arbor holds an edge with a 3.6% unemployment rate compared to Evanston’s 5.5%. Ann Arbor’s diversified economy benefits from tech, research, and entrepreneurial activity tied to the University of Michigan.
Education and Research: Comparing Academic Strengths
Both cities are anchored by world-class universities, yet they differ in focus and scale:
- Educational Attainment: Ann Arbor leads with 77.5% of residents aged 25 and older holding a bachelor’s degree or higher, compared to Evanston’s 69.3%.
- University Enrollment and Graduates: Michigan enrolled 51,225 students in Fall 2022 and conferred 16,132 degrees in the 2022-2023 academic year. Northwestern enrolled 23,161 students, graduating 8,967 during the same period.
- Research and Development (R&D) Expenditures: Michigan spent $1.77 billion on R&D in 2022, ranking #4 nationally. Northwestern invested $1 billion, securing a commendable #29 ranking. Both universities make significant contributions to innovation and academic excellence.
Looking Ahead
This weekend’s game offers Michigan an opportunity to close the season with a win in front of a home crowd, while Northwestern seeks to build on its success. Beyond the gridiron, Ann Arbor and Evanston reflect the distinct character of their communities, from Ann Arbor’s tech-driven growth to Evanston’s connection to Chicago’s dynamic economy.
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
