


                                                                   Exhibit 23(a)


                         CONSENT OF INDEPENDENT AUDITORS


We consent to the incorporation by reference in the Registration Statement (Form
S-8)  pertaining to the Saga  Communications,  Inc. 1997  Non-Employee  Director
Stock Option Plan and in the related Prospectus of our report dated February 14,
1997, with respect to the consolidated financial statements and schedule of Saga
Communications,  Inc.  included  in its Annual  Report  (Form 10-K) for the year
ended December 31, 1996, filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission.



                                                             ERNST & YOUNG LLP


Detroit, Michigan
June 6, 1997


