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

Warren

Michigan
73
VS

Ann Arbor

Michigan
121

Warren is 40% cheaper than Ann Arbor.

$1,184/mo ↓ 24%
Median Rent
$1,552/mo ↑ 31%
$63,741/yr ↓ 21%
Median Income
$81,089/yr ↑ 27%
$181,900 ↓ 58%
Home Value
$435,100 ↑ 139%
$1,098/mo ↓ 33%
Owner Costs
$1,638/mo ↑ 49%
138,128
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

22.3%
rent-to-income
Affordability
23.0%
rent-to-income

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Warren, MI and Ann Arbor, MI, the overall cost of living indices are 73 and 121 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $368/month cheaper in Warren, saving renters about $4,416/year.

Median household income is $17,348/year higher in Ann Arbor. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Warren is $181,900 compared to $435,100 in Ann Arbor.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Warren vs Ann Arbor — common questions

Is Warren or Ann Arbor cheaper to live in?
Based on our cost index, Warren is cheaper to live in with an index of 73 compared to 121 (US average = 100).
What is the rent difference between Warren and Ann Arbor?
Median rent in Warren is $1,184/month and in Ann Arbor it's $1,552/month — a difference of $368/month.
Which city has higher income, Warren or Ann Arbor?
Median household income is $63,741 in Warren and $81,089 in Ann Arbor. Median household income is $17,348/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 Warren or Ann Arbor?
It depends on your priorities. Warren has a cost index of 73 with median rent of $1,184/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 Warren details → View Ann Arbor details →

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