Cost of Living: Ann Arbor, MI vs Clearwater, FL (2026)

Ann Arbor

Michigan
121
VS

Clearwater

Florida
105

Ann Arbor is 15% more expensive than Clearwater.

$1,552/mo ≈ Same
Median Rent
$1,539/mo ≈ Same
$81,089/yr ↑ 26%
Median Income
$64,440/yr ↓ 21%
$435,100 ↑ 33%
Home Value
$326,100 ↓ 25%
$1,638/mo ↑ 16%
Owner Costs
$1,411/mo ↓ 14%
121,179
Population
117,075

Tax Comparison

4.25%
Income Tax
0%
6.0%
State Sales Tax
6.0%
1.38%
Property Tax
0.86%

Affordability

23.0%
rent-to-income
Affordability
28.7%
rent-to-income

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Ann Arbor, MI and Clearwater, FL, the overall cost of living indices are 121 and 105 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is comparable in both cities, with less than $50/month separating them.

Median household income is $16,649/year higher in Ann Arbor. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Ann Arbor is $435,100 compared to $326,100 in Clearwater.

Florida has no state income tax, giving Clearwater residents a significant tax advantage over Michigan's 4.25% rate.

Frequently Asked Questions

Ann Arbor vs Clearwater — common questions

Is Ann Arbor or Clearwater cheaper to live in?
Based on our cost index, Clearwater is cheaper to live in with an index of 105 compared to 121 (US average = 100).
What is the rent difference between Ann Arbor and Clearwater?
Median rent in Ann Arbor is $1,552/month and in Clearwater it's $1,539/month — a difference of $13/month.
Which city has higher income, Ann Arbor or Clearwater?
Median household income is $81,089 in Ann Arbor and $64,440 in Clearwater. Median household income is $16,649/year higher in Ann Arbor.
How do taxes compare between Michigan and Florida?
Michigan has 4.25% income tax, 6.0% sales tax, and 1.38% property tax. Florida has 0% income tax, 6.0% sales tax, and 0.86% property tax.
Should I move to Ann Arbor or Clearwater?
It depends on your priorities. Ann Arbor has a cost index of 121 with median rent of $1,552/mo, while Clearwater has a cost index of 105 with rent of $1,539/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.
View Ann Arbor details → View Clearwater details →

More Comparisons

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