Cost of Living: Providence, RI vs Ann Arbor, MI (2026)

Providence

Rhode Island
99
VS

Ann Arbor

Michigan
121

Providence is 18% cheaper than Ann Arbor.

$1,333/mo ↓ 14%
Median Rent
$1,552/mo ↑ 16%
$66,772/yr ↓ 18%
Median Income
$81,089/yr ↑ 21%
$322,800 ↓ 26%
Home Value
$435,100 ↑ 35%
$1,467/mo ↓ 10%
Owner Costs
$1,638/mo ↑ 12%
190,214
Population
121,179

Tax Comparison

5.99%
Income Tax
4.25%
7.0%
State Sales Tax
6.0%
1.53%
Property Tax
1.38%

Affordability

24.0%
rent-to-income
Affordability
23.0%
rent-to-income

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Providence, RI and Ann Arbor, MI, the overall cost of living indices are 99 and 121 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $219/month cheaper in Providence, saving renters about $2,628/year.

Median household income is $14,317/year higher in Ann Arbor. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Providence is $322,800 compared to $435,100 in Ann Arbor.

Michigan has a lower income tax rate, making Ann Arbor slightly more tax-friendly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Providence vs Ann Arbor — common questions

Is Providence or Ann Arbor cheaper to live in?
Based on our cost index, Providence is cheaper to live in with an index of 99 compared to 121 (US average = 100).
What is the rent difference between Providence and Ann Arbor?
Median rent in Providence is $1,333/month and in Ann Arbor it's $1,552/month — a difference of $219/month.
Which city has higher income, Providence or Ann Arbor?
Median household income is $66,772 in Providence and $81,089 in Ann Arbor. Median household income is $14,317/year higher in Ann Arbor.
How do taxes compare between Rhode Island and Michigan?
Rhode Island has 5.99% income tax, 7.0% 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 Providence or Ann Arbor?
It depends on your priorities. Providence has a cost index of 99 with median rent of $1,333/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 Providence details → View Ann Arbor details →

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