Cost of Living in Ingham County, Michigan
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Ingham County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Ingham County, Michigan
Ingham's rent burden exceeds national norms
At 19.7%, Ingham County's rent-to-income ratio runs nearly 4 percentage points above the national average, meaning renters here dedicate a larger share of earnings to housing. The median rent of $1,058 per month sits 21% higher than Michigan's state average of $873, even though Ingham's median household income of $64,354 trails the national median of $74,755 by 14%.
Ingham ranks among Michigan's least affordable
Ingham County's 19.7% rent-to-income ratio places it in the upper tier of housing cost burden across Michigan's 83 counties, where the state average sits at 16.3%. This gap suggests Ingham residents face tighter affordability constraints than most of their state peers.
Costlier than nearby Ionia and Jackson
Ingham's $1,058 median rent significantly outpaces neighboring Ionia County ($840) and Jackson County ($958), making it the highest-rent county in this immediate region. While Ingham's median home value of $187,500 falls below Kalamazoo's $227,500 but above most peers, its elevated rent burden reflects tight rental supply relative to demand.
Rent consumes more of Ingham incomes
With $1,058 in median monthly rent against a $64,354 annual income, Ingham renters spend roughly $12,696 yearly on housing—or 19.7% of gross income. Owner-occupants pay $1,161 monthly, and with a median home value of $187,500, Ingham offers modest homeownership opportunities but remains a high-burden county for both renters and buyers.
Considering Ingham? Compare the full picture
If affordability is your priority, nearby Ionia County delivers comparable job markets with significantly lower rents ($840 vs. $1,058) and a rent-to-income ratio of just 13.7%. However, Ingham's urban amenities and median income of $64,354 may justify the premium for those who value community resources and access to services.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Ingham County
Rent Burden
19.7%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,502
per month
Owner Cost Burden
21.6%
of gross income
You can likely afford the median home in Ingham County
Median home value is $187,500. Estimated monthly cost: $1,497 vs. your max of $1,502.
Rent Affordability Guide
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.