Cost of Living: Tacoma, WA vs Ann Arbor, MI (2026)

Tacoma

Washington
126
VS

Ann Arbor

Michigan
121

Tacoma is 4% more expensive than Ann Arbor.

$1,597/mo ↑ 3%
Median Rent
$1,552/mo ↓ 3%
$83,857/yr ↑ 3%
Median Income
$81,089/yr ↓ 3%
$454,600 ↑ 4%
Home Value
$435,100 ↓ 4%
$1,747/mo ↑ 7%
Owner Costs
$1,638/mo ↓ 6%
220,482
Population
121,179

Tax Comparison

0%
Income Tax
4.25%
6.5%
State Sales Tax
6.0%
0.92%
Property Tax
1.38%

Affordability

22.9%
rent-to-income
Affordability
23.0%
rent-to-income

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Tacoma, WA and Ann Arbor, MI, the overall cost of living indices are 126 and 121 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is comparable in both cities, with less than $50/month separating them.

Median household income is $2,768/year higher in Tacoma. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Tacoma is $454,600 compared to $435,100 in Ann Arbor.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Tacoma vs Ann Arbor — common questions

Is Tacoma or Ann Arbor cheaper to live in?
Based on our cost index, Ann Arbor is cheaper to live in with an index of 121 compared to 126 (US average = 100).
What is the rent difference between Tacoma and Ann Arbor?
Median rent in Tacoma is $1,597/month and in Ann Arbor it's $1,552/month — a difference of $45/month.
Which city has higher income, Tacoma or Ann Arbor?
Median household income is $83,857 in Tacoma and $81,089 in Ann Arbor. Median household income is $2,768/year higher in Tacoma.
How do taxes compare between Washington and Michigan?
Washington has 0% income tax, 6.5% sales tax, and 0.92% property tax. Michigan has 4.25% income tax, 6.0% sales tax, and 1.38% property tax.
Should I move to Tacoma or Ann Arbor?
It depends on your priorities. Tacoma has a cost index of 126 with median rent of $1,597/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 Tacoma details → View Ann Arbor details →

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