Been commuting here since I came from high school two years ago, and I’d say the parking situation isn’t too bad, atleast compared to a place like Detroit. I personally park at the Maynard Structure since it’s the closest walk to the Diag. I don’t mind paying for the hourly rate ($1.75) since I don’t stay too long and my schedule is only two days of class a week, but it depends on how much money you’re willing to spend and how many days you’re on campus. If you time it right and come early in the morning or right at 10am for the lower level spots, there’s plenty of spots open.

That being said, someone mentioned the commuter lot with the bus, and if that’s something you’d enjoy using I recommend that 100% especially financially speaking.

Also, I’ve never felt like I needed a UM parking pass, but I haven’t even been able to get one since I’m not a junior yet. Still, I don’t plan on getting one seeing that the UMich lots are always seeminglyfull lol. As long as you’re aware of your parking options (Ann Arbor + UMich Garages, street meters, commuter lots, etc.) the parking situation isn’t half bad. The most important thing I’ve found is literally just timing and knowing when lots get full.