Cost of Living in Hillsdale County, Michigan
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Hillsdale County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Hillsdale County ranks #2,061 of 3,144 counties for affordability (bottom 34%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Hillsdale County, Michigan
Below-average affordability burden
Hillsdale County's rent-to-income ratio of 15.8% sits comfortably below the national average, meaning renters here retain more of their earnings than typical Americans. With a median household income of $60,869 and median rent of $801, the county achieves solid housing affordability despite incomes trailing the national median of $74,755.
Slightly better than Michigan average
Hillsdale ranks marginally below Michigan's state rent-to-income average of 16.3%, offering modest affordability gains over most of the state. At $801 per month, median rent undercuts the state average of $873 by $72, providing meaningful monthly relief.
Affordable middle tier in the region
Hillsdale's $801 rent positions it between Gratiot ($808) and Genesee ($936), offering competitive affordability for south-central Michigan. The median household income of $60,869 also clusters close to Gratiot ($61,128) and Genesee ($60,673), reflecting similar economic profiles.
15.8% of earnings toward rent
Renters spend $801 monthly while homeowners face $850 in costs, both reasonable portions of the $60,869 median household income. Hillsdale demonstrates that modest-income counties can achieve acceptable affordability through restrained housing costs.
Solid choice for Midwest affordability
Hillsdale County offers balanced housing costs and community stability for working families throughout south-central Michigan. Compared to pricier Grand Traverse, Hillsdale delivers meaningful savings; compared to cheaper Gladwin, it offers more robust job and income opportunities.
Cost of Living Advisory: Hillsdale County
Affordability Verdict
Hillsdale County is affordable for renters, with a median gross rent of $801/month representing approximately 15.8% of median household income. The rent burden (GRAPI) stands at 27.0%.
Rent vs. Own
The median rent in Hillsdale County is $801/month, while owner costs run $850/month. Renting saves approximately $49/month.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $32,040/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $36,429/year. With a median household income of $60,869, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 27.0% of renter households in Hillsdale County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Hillsdale County sits 8% more expensive than Dickinson County ($744/month) in terms of median gross rent.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Hillsdale County
Rent Burden
15.8%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,420
per month
Owner Cost Burden
16.8%
of gross income
You can likely afford the median home in Hillsdale County
Median home value is $170,500. Estimated monthly cost: $1,361 vs. your max of $1,420.
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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