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

Lubbock

Texas
75
VS

Ann Arbor

Michigan
121

Lubbock is 38% cheaper than Ann Arbor.

$1,137/mo ↓ 27%
Median Rent
$1,552/mo ↑ 36%
$60,487/yr ↓ 25%
Median Income
$81,089/yr ↑ 34%
$197,900 ↓ 55%
Home Value
$435,100 ↑ 120%
$1,179/mo ↓ 28%
Owner Costs
$1,638/mo ↑ 39%
261,078
Population
121,179

Tax Comparison

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

Affordability

22.6%
rent-to-income
Affordability
23.0%
rent-to-income

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Lubbock, TX and Ann Arbor, MI, the overall cost of living indices are 75 and 121 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $415/month cheaper in Lubbock, saving renters about $4,980/year.

Median household income is $20,602/year higher in Ann Arbor. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Lubbock is $197,900 compared to $435,100 in Ann Arbor.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Lubbock vs Ann Arbor — common questions

Is Lubbock or Ann Arbor cheaper to live in?
Based on our cost index, Lubbock is cheaper to live in with an index of 75 compared to 121 (US average = 100).
What is the rent difference between Lubbock and Ann Arbor?
Median rent in Lubbock is $1,137/month and in Ann Arbor it's $1,552/month — a difference of $415/month.
Which city has higher income, Lubbock or Ann Arbor?
Median household income is $60,487 in Lubbock and $81,089 in Ann Arbor. Median household income is $20,602/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 Lubbock or Ann Arbor?
It depends on your priorities. Lubbock has a cost index of 75 with median rent of $1,137/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 Lubbock details → View Ann Arbor details →

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