Cost of Living in Barry County, Michigan
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Barry County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Barry County ranks #1,974 of 3,144 counties for affordability (bottom 37%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Barry County, Michigan
Barry combines higher income with affordability
Barry County renters spend 14.7% of income on housing, below Michigan's 16.3% average and well within the 30% affordability zone. With a median household income of $77,873—second only to Allegan in this sample—Barry households enjoy both strong earning power and reasonable housing costs.
Strong income supports premium housing costs
Barry County's 14.7% rent-to-income ratio ranks favorably against Michigan's 16.3% average, anchored by median household income of $77,873 that sits near the top of this county sample. Though median rent of $955 exceeds state averages, Barry households earn enough to absorb it comfortably.
Premium costs matched by premium incomes
Barry's $955 monthly rent and $243,700 median home value run 15–25% above most neighboring counties, yet incomes of $77,873 are second only to Allegan's $80,255. This income advantage transforms what might seem costly into genuinely affordable housing.
Housing claims moderate share of earnings
Renters pay $955 monthly while homeowners spend $1,095, with homes valued at $243,700 and median income at $77,873. Together, housing consumes roughly 15% of income whether renting or owning, a healthy proportion that leaves room for savings.
Southwest Michigan prosperity and stability
Barry County attracts households with strong income and willingness to invest in housing—homeowners and renters alike find their earnings stretch effectively here. Relocating professionals will recognize Barry's economic stability as a long-term foundation for financial planning.
Cost of Living Advisory: Barry County
Affordability Verdict
Barry County is affordable for renters, with a median gross rent of $955/month representing approximately 14.7% of median household income. The rent burden (GRAPI) stands at 26.0%.
Rent vs. Own
The median rent in Barry County is $955/month, while owner costs run $1,095/month. Renting saves approximately $140/month.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $38,200/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $46,929/year. With a median household income of $77,873, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 26.0% of renter households in Barry County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Within Michigan, Barry County is more affordable than Branch County by roughly 6% ($955/mo vs $900/mo).
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Barry County
Rent Burden
14.7%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,817
per month
Owner Cost Burden
16.9%
of gross income
The median home in Barry County may be a stretch
Median home value is $243,700. Estimated monthly cost: $1,946 vs. your max of $1,817.
Rent Affordability Guide
Income Needed Calculator
See how much you need to earn to comfortably afford housing
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Based on the 30% rule for rent and 28% rule for housing costs (mortgage + owner costs). Mortgage estimate assumes 20% down, 7.2% interest, 30-year fixed.
Frequently Asked Questions
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See Today's RatesData: U.S. Census Bureau, American Community Survey (ACS) 5-Year Estimates (2019-2023) — Informational only. Not financial or legal advice.
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