Alpena, MI

Very Low · 41

Michigan · Population 10,178 · Updated March 2026

$599
Median Rent / Month
$47,604
Median Income
$110,400
Median Home Value
$668
Owner Costs / Month

Affordability

How far your income goes in Alpena

15.1%
Rent-to-Income Ratio
Affordable
Rent takes less than 25% of median income — considered affordable by HUD standards.

Tax Burden in Michigan

State-level tax rates that affect your costs

4.25%
Income Tax (Top Rate)
6.0%
Sales Tax
1.38%
Property Tax Rate

Estimated Annual Costs

$7,188
Annual Rent
$2,023
State Income Tax
$1,524
Property Tax (est.)

Cost of Living Overview

Alpena is significantly cheaper than the national average, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious individuals and families. With a cost index of 41 (where 100 equals the national median), Alpena residents can expect to pay median rent of $599/month while earning a median household income of $47,604/year.

The median home value in Alpena, MI is $110,400, with typical monthly owner costs around $668 including mortgage, insurance, and taxes. The median rent-to-income ratio of 15.1% means housing is relatively affordable here — well below the 30% threshold that HUD considers cost-burdened.

Michigan has a moderate income tax rate of 4.25%. Combined with a 6.0% sales tax rate and 1.38% effective property tax rate, the overall tax environment is a factor in the total cost of living in Alpena.

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about living costs in Alpena

What is the cost of living in Alpena, MI?
The cost of living index in Alpena, MI is 41 (US average = 100). Median monthly rent is $599, median household income is $47,604/year, and the median home value is $110,400.
Is Alpena, MI affordable?
Yes, Alpena is more affordable than the national average with a cost index of 41. The rent-to-income ratio is 15.1%—below the 30%% threshold considered affordable by HUD.
What is the average rent in Alpena, MI?
The median gross rent in Alpena, MI is $599 per month according to the US Census Bureau ACS 2023 data. Annual rent costs approximately $7,188.
What is the median household income in Alpena?
The median household income in Alpena, MI is $47,604 per year. This compares to the national median of approximately $80,000.
What are the taxes like in Michigan?
Michigan has a top income tax rate of 4.25%, a sales tax of 6.0%, and an effective property tax rate of 1.38%.