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

Pasadena

Texas
76
VS

Ann Arbor

Michigan
121

Pasadena is 37% cheaper than Ann Arbor.

$1,201/mo ↓ 23%
Median Rent
$1,552/mo ↑ 29%
$64,270/yr ↓ 21%
Median Income
$81,089/yr ↑ 26%
$193,600 ↓ 56%
Home Value
$435,100 ↑ 125%
$1,141/mo ↓ 30%
Owner Costs
$1,638/mo ↑ 44%
149,345
Population
121,179

Tax Comparison

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

Affordability

22.4%
rent-to-income
Affordability
23.0%
rent-to-income

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Pasadena, TX and Ann Arbor, MI, the overall cost of living indices are 76 and 121 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $351/month cheaper in Pasadena, saving renters about $4,212/year.

Median household income is $16,819/year higher in Ann Arbor. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Pasadena is $193,600 compared to $435,100 in Ann Arbor.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Pasadena vs Ann Arbor — common questions

Is Pasadena or Ann Arbor cheaper to live in?
Based on our cost index, Pasadena is cheaper to live in with an index of 76 compared to 121 (US average = 100).
What is the rent difference between Pasadena and Ann Arbor?
Median rent in Pasadena is $1,201/month and in Ann Arbor it's $1,552/month — a difference of $351/month.
Which city has higher income, Pasadena or Ann Arbor?
Median household income is $64,270 in Pasadena and $81,089 in Ann Arbor. Median household income is $16,819/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 Pasadena or Ann Arbor?
It depends on your priorities. Pasadena has a cost index of 76 with median rent of $1,201/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 Pasadena details → View Ann Arbor details →

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