Cost of Living in Clinton County, Michigan
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Clinton County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Clinton County ranks #2,928 of 3,144 counties for affordability (bottom 7%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Clinton County, Michigan
Clinton County's Incomes Support Higher Housing Costs
Clinton County boasts the highest median household income among Michigan's profiled counties at $85,928—above the national average of $74,755—allowing residents to absorb higher housing costs while maintaining a healthy 14.5% rent-to-income ratio. Monthly rents of $1,039 reflect a more affluent market with stronger earning capacity.
Michigan's Most Affordable County for High Earners
Clinton County ranks as the most affordable in Michigan by rent-to-income ratio at 14.5%, well below the state average of 16.3%, thanks to incomes that outpace both state and national medians. This county delivers the most balanced housing affordability profile across Michigan's profiled counties.
Highest Incomes, Highest Housing Costs
Clinton County's $1,039 monthly rent and $1,202 monthly owner costs are the highest among Michigan's profiled counties, yet residents can afford them due to median income of $85,928—the region's strongest. Eaton County comes closest with $78,025 in median income and slightly lower rents of $1,042, making Clinton a premium but manageable market.
Ownership Costs More, But Income Supports It
Clinton County homeowners pay $1,202 monthly compared to renters' $1,039, a $163 monthly premium that reflects higher-value properties (median $243,700) in this affluent county. Despite these elevated costs, the 14.5% rent-to-income ratio proves residents' strong incomes keep housing burdens manageable.
Clinton Suits High-Income Relocators
Clinton County delivers Michigan's best overall housing affordability for higher-income households, with premium properties at home values of $243,700 remaining affordable relative to incomes. If your household income aligns with or exceeds $85,928, Clinton offers the strongest housing market fundamentals in the state.
Cost of Living Advisory: Clinton County
Affordability Verdict
For renters in Clinton County, the market is affordable. Expect to pay around $1,039/month in gross rent, with 26.0% of renter households considered cost-burdened.
Rent vs. Own
The median rent in Clinton County is $1,039/month, while owner costs run $1,202/month. Renting saves approximately $163/month.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $41,560/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $51,514/year. With a median household income of $85,928, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 26.0% of renter households in Clinton County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Clinton County sits 7% more expensive than Benzie County ($974/month) in terms of median gross rent.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Clinton County
Rent Burden
14.5%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$2,005
per month
Owner Cost Burden
16.8%
of gross income
You can likely afford the median home in Clinton County
Median home value is $243,700. Estimated monthly cost: $1,946 vs. your max of $2,005.
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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