Dayton, OH vs Lansing, MI: 50 vs 58

$866/mo ↓ 11%

Median Rent

$976/mo ↑ 13%

$43,454/yr ↓ 17%

Median Income

$52,170/yr ↑ 20%

$93,200 ↓ 22%

Home Value

$119,400 ↑ 28%

$833/mo ↓ 15%

Owner Costs

$978/mo ↑ 17%

136,741

Population

112,546

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Dayton, OH and Lansing, MI, the overall cost of living indices are 50 and 58 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $110/month cheaper in Dayton, saving renters about $1,320/year.

Median household income is $8,716/year higher in Lansing. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Dayton is $93,200 compared to $119,400 in Lansing.

Ohio has a lower income tax rate, making Dayton slightly more tax-friendly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Dayton vs Lansing — common questions

Is Dayton or Lansing cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Dayton is cheaper to live in with an index of 50 compared to 58 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Dayton and Lansing?

Median rent in Dayton is $866/month and in Lansing it's $976/month — a difference of $110/month.

Which city has higher income, Dayton or Lansing?

Median household income is $43,454 in Dayton and $52,170 in Lansing. Median household income is $8,716/year higher in Lansing.

How do taxes compare between Ohio and Michigan?

Ohio has 3.5% income tax, 5.75% sales tax, and 1.53% property tax. Michigan has 4.25% income tax, 6.0% sales tax, and 1.38% property tax.

Should I move to Dayton or Lansing?

It depends on your priorities. Dayton has a cost index of 50 with median rent of $866/mo, while Lansing has a cost index of 58 with rent of $976/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

Cost of Living: Dayton, OH vs Lansing, MI (2026)

Dayton

Lansing

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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