Cost of Living: Springfield, MA vs Ann Arbor, MI (2026)

Springfield

Massachusetts
79
VS

Ann Arbor

Michigan
121

Springfield is 35% cheaper than Ann Arbor.

$1,114/mo ↓ 28%
Median Rent
$1,552/mo ↑ 39%
$51,339/yr ↓ 37%
Median Income
$81,089/yr ↑ 58%
$222,700 ↓ 49%
Home Value
$435,100 ↑ 95%
$1,276/mo ↓ 22%
Owner Costs
$1,638/mo ↑ 28%
154,751
Population
121,179

Tax Comparison

9.0%
Income Tax
4.25%
6.25%
State Sales Tax
6.0%
1.15%
Property Tax
1.38%

Affordability

26.0%
rent-to-income
Affordability
23.0%
rent-to-income

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Springfield, MA and Ann Arbor, MI, the overall cost of living indices are 79 and 121 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $438/month cheaper in Springfield, saving renters about $5,256/year.

Median household income is $29,750/year higher in Ann Arbor. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Springfield is $222,700 compared to $435,100 in Ann Arbor.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Springfield vs Ann Arbor — common questions

Is Springfield or Ann Arbor cheaper to live in?
Based on our cost index, Springfield is cheaper to live in with an index of 79 compared to 121 (US average = 100).
What is the rent difference between Springfield and Ann Arbor?
Median rent in Springfield is $1,114/month and in Ann Arbor it's $1,552/month — a difference of $438/month.
Which city has higher income, Springfield or Ann Arbor?
Median household income is $51,339 in Springfield and $81,089 in Ann Arbor. Median household income is $29,750/year higher in Ann Arbor.
How do taxes compare between Massachusetts and Michigan?
Massachusetts has 9.0% income tax, 6.25% sales tax, and 1.15% property tax. Michigan has 4.25% income tax, 6.0% sales tax, and 1.38% property tax.
Should I move to Springfield or Ann Arbor?
It depends on your priorities. Springfield has a cost index of 79 with median rent of $1,114/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 Springfield details → View Ann Arbor details →

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