Cost of Living: Sterling Heights, MI vs Ann Arbor, MI (2026)

Sterling Heights

Michigan
87
VS

Ann Arbor

Michigan
121

Sterling Heights is 28% cheaper than Ann Arbor.

$1,267/mo ↓ 18%
Median Rent
$1,552/mo ↑ 22%
$78,429/yr ↓ 3%
Median Income
$81,089/yr ↑ 3%
$260,700 ↓ 40%
Home Value
$435,100 ↑ 67%
$1,243/mo ↓ 24%
Owner Costs
$1,638/mo ↑ 32%
133,473
Population
121,179

Tax Comparison

4.25%
Income Tax
4.25%
6.0%
State Sales Tax
6.0%
1.38%
Property Tax
1.38%

Affordability

19.4%
rent-to-income
Affordability
23.0%
rent-to-income

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Sterling Heights, MI and Ann Arbor, MI, the overall cost of living indices are 87 and 121 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $285/month cheaper in Sterling Heights, saving renters about $3,420/year.

Median household income is $2,660/year higher in Ann Arbor. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Sterling Heights is $260,700 compared to $435,100 in Ann Arbor.

Both cities share the same state tax structure since they are in Michigan.

Frequently Asked Questions

Sterling Heights vs Ann Arbor — common questions

Is Sterling Heights or Ann Arbor cheaper to live in?
Based on our cost index, Sterling Heights is cheaper to live in with an index of 87 compared to 121 (US average = 100).
What is the rent difference between Sterling Heights and Ann Arbor?
Median rent in Sterling Heights is $1,267/month and in Ann Arbor it's $1,552/month — a difference of $285/month.
Which city has higher income, Sterling Heights or Ann Arbor?
Median household income is $78,429 in Sterling Heights and $81,089 in Ann Arbor. Median household income is $2,660/year higher in Ann Arbor.
How do taxes compare between Michigan and Michigan?
Both cities are in Michigan and share the same state tax rates: 4.25% income tax, 6.0% sales tax, and 1.38% property tax.
Should I move to Sterling Heights or Ann Arbor?
It depends on your priorities. Sterling Heights has a cost index of 87 with median rent of $1,267/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 Sterling Heights details → View Ann Arbor details →

More Comparisons

Other cost of living comparisons for Sterling Heights and Ann Arbor

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