Finding a place to live in Ann Arbor is basically a full-time job. It’s expensive. Actually, it's more than expensive—it’s borderline nonsensical. If you've been scouring the north side for something that doesn't cost your entire soul, you have definitely seen Parkway Meadows Ann Arbor pop up in your search results.
But here’s the thing. There is a ton of confusion about what this place actually is. Is it a senior complex? Is it low-income housing? Can a regular grad student or a young family just sign a lease there? Honestly, the answer is "all of the above," but with a lot of "it depends" attached to it.
The Identity Crisis of Parkway Meadows Ann Arbor
Most people think Parkway Meadows is just one big apartment complex. It’s not. It’s actually a sprawling 45-acre community with two very distinct personalities.
First, you’ve got the senior and disabled housing section. This is the part that is heavily subsidized by HUD. If you’re over 62 or have a qualifying disability, the rent is typically capped at 30% of your adjusted gross income. That is a massive deal in a city where a studio apartment can easily clear $1,700 these days. There are about 210 of these units.
Then, there’s the "family" side. These are the 140 or so townhomes and apartments that aren't age-restricted. You don't have to be a senior to live here. However, they are still income-restricted in many cases, meaning you have to fall within a certain bracket to qualify. It's a bit of a tightrope walk. If you make too much, you’re out. If you make too little, you can’t afford it.
Why the North Side Location Matters
The complex sits at 2575 Sandalwood Circle. For those who don't know the 48105 zip code, it’s basically the "quiet" part of town. You aren't going to be walking to the Big House for a game from here.
You’ve got the Traver Village Shopping Center right around the corner. Kroger, CVS, and Plum Market are basically your neighbors. If you’re a foodie, you’re close to Cardamom (best Indian food in the city, no contest) and some decent coffee spots.
- Commuting is easy. The #5 and #6 buses run right by.
- University of Michigan is about 3.3 miles away.
- Hospitals like U-M Health and St. Joseph Mercy are within a 10-minute drive.
- Nature. You’re near the Leslie Science and Nature Center and the Matthaei Botanical Gardens.
What It’s Actually Like to Live There
Let’s talk about the vibe. It was built in 1979.
Does it look like those glass-and-steel luxury "luxury" (heavy on the sarcasm) apartments popping up downtown? No. It’s two stories, brick, and surrounded by a lot of grass and mature trees. Some people call it dated. Others call it "established."
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Inside, the units vary wildly depending on when they were last touched. Some have seen impressive remodeling—granite countertops, new flooring, and decent appliances. Others feel like 1985 is still trying to happen.
One thing that surprises people? The space. A 3-bedroom unit here can hit 1,238 square feet. In downtown Ann Arbor, a 1,200-square-foot apartment would cost you a kidney. At Parkway Meadows Ann Arbor, it’s a standard family layout.
The Management Factor
The property is managed by KMG Prestige. If you read reviews online, you’ll see the typical apartment drama. People complaining about the waitlist. People complaining about the smoke-free policy.
Speaking of that—Parkway Meadows went completely smoke-free back in 2014, inside and out. It was a huge deal at the time and even made the news because some long-term residents felt it was discriminatory. Today, it's just the rule. If you want to light up, you’re walking 25 feet away from the buildings.
Maintenance is generally hit or miss, but mostly hit. They use an online portal for requests, and for a complex of 350+ units, they stay relatively on top of things. During the winter, they even plow the lots—which is a godsend when Ann Arbor gets hit with eight inches of slush.
Common Misconceptions and Hurdles
The biggest hurdle? The waitlist.
You can't just decide today that you want to move into Parkway Meadows Ann Arbor next month. It doesn't work that way. Because it’s one of the few places in the city that offers legitimate "affordable" rates, the line is long. Sometimes years long.
Another thing people get wrong is the "pet" situation.
- Senior apartments: Generally allowed with restrictions.
- Family apartments: Historically more restrictive.
Always check the current policy before you show up with a Golden Retriever.
Understanding the Financials
Let's get real about the money. Rent in Ann Arbor is growing at a rate that outpaces most people's raises.
At Parkway Meadows, the 2-bedroom and 3-bedroom apartments are often priced 8% to 14% less than the city average. In a market where 2-bedroom units average over $2,100, saving $200 or $300 a month isn't just "nice"—it's the difference between staying in the city and moving to Canton.
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Is It Right For You?
If you need a sparkling gym with Peloton bikes and a rooftop lounge for your TikTok aesthetic, move on. This isn't that.
But if you are a senior looking to stay independent with the help of on-site service coordinators, or a family trying to get into the Ann Arbor Public Schools district (Thurston Elementary and Huron High are the big ones here), it’s a solid, safe, and quiet option.
Actionable Next Steps
- Call the Office Directly: Don't rely on third-party websites for availability. Call (734) 662-5055. They are open Monday through Friday, 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
- Check Income Limits: Ask specifically for the current HUD income limits for Washtenaw County. These change annually.
- Visit the Site: Drive through the complex on a Saturday afternoon. See how the parking looks. Check the proximity to the bus stops.
- Get on the Waitlist: If you think you’ll need a move in a year or two, get your name on the list now. There is almost never an "immediate opening."
Choosing a home here is about weighing the trade-offs of age and style against the massive benefits of price and location. In the 48105, it remains one of the few anchors of affordability left.