East Lansing, MI

Below Avg · 81

Michigan · Population 45,394 · Updated March 2026

$1,122
Median Rent / Month
$43,547
Median Income
$251,600
Median Home Value
$1,191
Owner Costs / Month

Affordability

How far your income goes in East Lansing

30.9%
Rent-to-Income Ratio
Moderate
Rent takes 25-35% of median income — moderate affordability.

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

$13,464
Annual Rent
$1,851
State Income Tax
$3,472
Property Tax (est.)

Cost of Living Overview

East Lansing is significantly cheaper than the national average, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious individuals and families. With a cost index of 81 (where 100 equals the national median), East Lansing residents can expect to pay median rent of $1,122/month while earning a median household income of $43,547/year.

The median home value in East Lansing, MI is $251,600, with typical monthly owner costs around $1,191 including mortgage, insurance, and taxes. At 30.9% rent-to-income ratio, residents of East Lansing are spending more than the recommended 30% of income on housing, indicating moderate cost burden.

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 East Lansing.

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about living costs in East Lansing

What is the cost of living in East Lansing, MI?
The cost of living index in East Lansing, MI is 81 (US average = 100). Median monthly rent is $1,122, median household income is $43,547/year, and the median home value is $251,600.
Is East Lansing, MI affordable?
Yes, East Lansing is more affordable than the national average with a cost index of 81. The rent-to-income ratio is 30.9%—above the 30%% affordability threshold.
What is the average rent in East Lansing, MI?
The median gross rent in East Lansing, MI is $1,122 per month according to the US Census Bureau ACS 2023 data. Annual rent costs approximately $13,464.
What is the median household income in East Lansing?
The median household income in East Lansing, MI is $43,547 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%.