Cost of Living: Garland, TX vs Ann Arbor, MI (2026)

Garland

Texas
96
VS

Ann Arbor

Michigan
121

Garland is 21% cheaper than Ann Arbor.

$1,525/mo ↓ 2%
Median Rent
$1,552/mo ↑ 2%
$74,717/yr ↓ 8%
Median Income
$81,089/yr ↑ 9%
$248,900 ↓ 43%
Home Value
$435,100 ↑ 75%
$1,445/mo ↓ 12%
Owner Costs
$1,638/mo ↑ 13%
245,298
Population
121,179

Tax Comparison

0%
Income Tax
4.25%
6.25%
State Sales Tax
6.0%
1.6%
Property Tax
1.38%

Affordability

24.5%
rent-to-income
Affordability
23.0%
rent-to-income

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Garland, TX and Ann Arbor, MI, the overall cost of living indices are 96 and 121 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is comparable in both cities, with less than $50/month separating them.

Median household income is $6,372/year higher in Ann Arbor. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Garland is $248,900 compared to $435,100 in Ann Arbor.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Garland vs Ann Arbor — common questions

Is Garland or Ann Arbor cheaper to live in?
Based on our cost index, Garland is cheaper to live in with an index of 96 compared to 121 (US average = 100).
What is the rent difference between Garland and Ann Arbor?
Median rent in Garland is $1,525/month and in Ann Arbor it's $1,552/month — a difference of $27/month.
Which city has higher income, Garland or Ann Arbor?
Median household income is $74,717 in Garland and $81,089 in Ann Arbor. Median household income is $6,372/year higher in Ann Arbor.
How do taxes compare between Texas and Michigan?
Texas has 0% income tax, 6.25% sales tax, and 1.6% property tax. Michigan has 4.25% income tax, 6.0% sales tax, and 1.38% property tax.
Should I move to Garland or Ann Arbor?
It depends on your priorities. Garland has a cost index of 96 with median rent of $1,525/mo, while Ann Arbor has a cost index of 121 with rent of $1,552/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.
View Garland details → View Ann Arbor details →

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