7.Ann Arbor, Michigan

Ann Arbor, Michigan

Patents per million residents: 1,697
Average patents per year: 590
Top industry: Motors, engines, and parts
Ann Arbor's the home of the University of Michigan, one of the "public Ivies," which is the major researcher and employer and draws other companies to the area. Auto companies like General Motors also have a presence.

Source: Brookings

Read more: http://www.businessinsider.com/the-20-most-innovative-cities-in-the-us-2013-2?op=1#ixzz2RyT9bSZB