

                 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.  Employee Stock Purchase Plan
and in the related  Prospectus  of our report  dated  February  12,  1999,  with
respect to the financial  statements and schedule of Saga  Communications,  Inc.
included in its Annual Report (Form 10-K) for the year ended  December 31, 1998,
filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission.


                                               ERNST & YOUNG LLP

Detroit, Michigan
August 19, 1999

