Seattle has a great bus and light rail system that everyone uses. UW has student bus passes for about $100 per semester, which is a good deal. Fast bus to downtown takes less than 15 minutes. Lots of new apartments and amazing student dorms all built in last 3 years next to campus. Univ housing is less than $1000, plus they own apts near campus for about $900 for a single with hardwood floors. Lots of hiking and camping, but that's harder to get to without a car. You can take the ferry to day hikes on the islands though. City is super dog friendly, lots of dog parks and people bring their dogs to the beach to play. Food can be expensive if you're not careful where you shop. Beer is pricey too, not as many cheap student deals
Never been to U Mich area, but also hear good things. Tough decisions!