10 Cheapest Places to Live in Michigan
- Flint
- Saginaw
- Albion
- Springfield
- Lansing
- Muskegon
- Battle Creek
- Midland
- Kalamazoo
- Livonia
1. Flint
Median Home Price: $58,500
Average Rent (one bedroom): $650
Cost of Living Compared to State Average: 17.9% lower than the Michigan average
Flint is the cheapest place to live in Michigan. The city has historically been known as a hub of the automotive industry but has suffered from economic decline in recent years. Flint is located in Gennesse County, which is one of the poorest counties in Michigan.
Flint has also been in the news due to the Flint Water Crisis. Flint also has issues with crime and is one of the most dangerous cities in Michigan. The city's economic and infrastructure problems have led to depressed real estate prices. The median home price in Flint is only $58,500, while the average rent for a one-bedroom apartment is only $650.
2. Saginaw
Median Home Price: $119,300
Average Rent (one bedroom): $750
Cost of Living Compared to State Average: 14.8% lower than the Michigan average
Saginaw is the second-cheapest city in Michigan. Though this city is home to about 43,000 people, it offers a distinctly small-town atmosphere, complete with a close-knit community. Residents of Saginaw enjoy a range of amenities and attractions, favorites of which include several museums, art galleries, and the Saginaw River. Rental rates in Saginaw average $750 per month, making it the second most affordable city in Michigan.
3. Albion
Median Home Price: $120,500
Average Rent (one bedroom): $910
Cost of Living Compared to State Average: 14.1% lower than the Michigan average
Another one of the cheapest places to live in Michigan is Albion. Located in Calhoun County, this city offers a charming living experience predominantly characterized by a small-town atmosphere and abundant natural beauty. Residents of Albion enjoy a peaceful and laid-back lifestyle, and the town itself features well-preserved historic buildings and tree-lined streets — a picturesque backdrop for everyday life. Homes for rent in Albion average $910 per month.
4. Springfield
Median Home Price: $124,700
Average Rent (one bedroom): $1,000
Cost of Living Compared to State Average: 13.8% lower than the Michigan average
Springfield is another one of the cheapest places to live in Michigan. This city is home to only 5,000 people, making it the perfect living situation for those who prefer a small-town environment with a close-knit community. Though the city is surrounded by beautiful natural landscapes and urban beauty, its central location provides convenient access to larger cities and employment opportunities. Homes for rent in Springfield average $1,000 per month, making it an essential part of the cheapest places to live in Michigan.
5. Lansing
Median Home Price: $146,400
Average Rent (one bedroom): $920
Cost of Living Compared to State Average: 9.6% lower than the Michigan average
Lansing is another one of the cheapest cities to live in Michigan. It's also the state capital and one of the largest cities in Michigan. A vibrant urban living experience, this city boasts a rich history and is home to numerous government institutions. Residents of Lansing enjoy diverse cultural attractions, including museums, art galleries, festivals, and a lively and engaging atmosphere. With rental rates in Lansing averaging $920 per month, it’s no wonder so many people are attracted to this thriving and affordable city.
6. Muskegon
Median Home Price: $161,000
Average Rent (one bedroom): $950
Cost of Living Compared to State Average: 9.2% lower than the Michigan average
Muskegon is one of the cheapest places to live in Michigan for those interested in waterfront living. Located along the shores of Lake Michigan, this vibrant coastal city provides a delightful blend of natural beauty, waterfront acreage, and a thriving arts scene. Residents of Muskegon enjoy easy access to beautiful sandy beaches, parks, and other recreational areas — all of which provide ample outdoor fun. With so much to offer, it’s surprising that rents in this area average at only $950 per month.
7. Battle Creek
Median Home Price: $164,300
Average Rent (one bedroom): $950
Cost of Living Compared to State Average: 9.1% lower than the Michigan average
Battle Creek is an affordable Michigan city with plenty to offer. Known as the “Cereal City” due to its history as the headquarters of major cereal manufacturers, Battle Creek showcases its unique heritage through various events and attractions. Residents of Battle Creek enjoy a wide array of recreational opportunities, cultural institutions, and a thriving downtown area — all of which provide bustling entertainment. Homes for sale in Battle Creek average at $164,300, making it one of the cheapest cities in Michigan for home buyers.
8. Midland
Median Home Price: $219,500
Average Rent (one bedroom): $950
Cost of Living Compared to State Average: 6.0% lower than the Michigan average
Midland, another one of Michigan’s cheapest places to live, offers a family-friendly community with a range of amenities. This city is known for its beautiful landscapes, including the scenic backdrop of the Tittabawassee River and the nearby Dow Gardens. Residents of Midland enjoy a high quality of life, with excellent schools, parks, and recreational facilities. With rental rates averaging $950.00 per month, Midland is an affordable choice for Michigan families.
9. Kalamazoo
Median Home Price: $224,100
Average Rent (one bedroom): $1,000
Cost of Living Compared to State Average: 5.7% lower than the Michigan average
Located in southwest Michigan, Kalamazoo is one of the cheapest places to live in Michigan for a suburban lifestyle. This city offers its residents a blend of small-town charm and urban amenities and is particularly known for its vibrant arts scene. Kalamazoo is also home to several renowned breweries, making it a hub for craft beer enthusiasts. With some of the state's lowest home values and rental rates, Kalamazoo is not to be overlooked when considering the cheapest places to live in Michigan.
10. Livonia
Median Home Price: $280,500
Average Rent (one bedroom): $1,050
Cost of Living Compared to State Average: 1.5% lower than the Michigan average
Livonia is another one of the cheapest places to live in Michigan for suburban living. This thriving city is known for its top-rated school district, local parks, golf courses, and community centers, and close proximity to major highways. With affordable housing options that are convenient access to shopping centers, restaurants, and entertainment venues, living in Livonia provides a comfortable and convenient lifestyle for its residents.