Key Location Factors

Information that site selectors need about the Ann Arbor region is organized here. You'll find the Ann Arbor Region to be a rich, fertile business environment that attracts and grows innovative businesses.

Washtenaw County is located in the western portion of the Southeastern Michigan region, between the cities of Detroit and Jackson. Five cities, 20 townships and three villages are located within the county’s borders. Ann Arbor, population 114,024, is the county’s largest city. Three freeways serve Washtenaw County: I-94, US-23, and M-14.

Labor Force
Washtenaw County is home to a highly educated and skilled labor force. Nearly 70% of the population is aged 25 and older, and have achieved a high school education. Over 40% of the same group has completed four or more years of college. Washtenaw County has the highest number of college graduates of any county in the state showing the talented labor pool this area has to offer. Additionally, the four million people who reside within a 45-minute drive provide a mobile workforce to employers here.

Michigan Tax Structure
Over 20 recent tax cuts in Michigan have resulted in big savings for businesses operating within the state. For example, the Single Business Tax, which is the state’s only corporate tax, was recently lowered from a rate of 2.35% to 2.30%. The state sales tax is set at the national average and there are no local sales taxes allowed in Michigan. This, coupled with reforms in workers’ compensation, unemployment insurance and a 6.50% reduction in property taxes, makes it clear that the state is open for business.

Infrastructure
Washtenaw County is centrally located with access to four major freeways, three airports, four major rail lines and Detroit’s international deepwater port. An abundance of freight forwarders and trucking lines can ship your firm’s products where they are needed with ease. Our utilities are highly reliable, with services and programs to meet every need of your company, whether it be large or small. With the impending deregulation of the utilities industry, area businesses will benefit from long-term savings.

Education
Washtenaw County is renowned for its educational opportunities. Our K-12 school systems provide a healthy and innovative environment in which children can grow and learn. In addition, there are three colleges and two universities located within the county. The University of Michigan looks toward the future, emphasizing the need for technology transfer in the county and works with businesses to stimulate the practical application of university research. Eastern Michigan University offers students a unique educational opportunity through the College of Technology.

Contact Jim Gartin at 734 821-0074 or james@AnnArborSPARK.org if you need additional information. Jim will help you and your client explore the dynamic business and academic environment that make the Ann Arbor area so appealing. We look forward to welcoming your client home.

All Ann Arbor SPARK services are performed in complete confidentiality.