Cost of Living in Manistee County, Michigan
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Manistee County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Manistee County ranks #2,386 of 3,144 counties for affordability (bottom 24%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Manistee County, Michigan
Manistee: Solid National Affordability
Manistee County residents spend 16.2% of household income on rent, slightly above the national sweet spot but remaining reasonably affordable compared to many American markets. With a median household income of $60,879—below the national average—this county still delivers respectable housing value for lower-income households.
Right at Michigan's Average
Manistee County's rent-to-income ratio of 16.2% sits nearly even with Michigan's state average of 16.3%, making it a middle-of-the-road option for affordability across the state. Monthly rent of $820 runs modestly below the state average of $873, offering modest savings for Michigan renters.
Affordability Between Regional Extremes
Manistee County positions itself as moderately priced compared to neighbors, with rents $59 below Marquette County but $45 above Menominee County's lowest rates. The median home value of $166,600 aligns closely with Mackinac County, making both reliable choices for homebuyers seeking value.
Ownership Slightly Cheaper Than Renting
Manistee County renters pay $820 monthly while homeowners spend $784—a rare arrangement where mortgages cost less than rent. This $36 monthly advantage for owners, combined with a 16.2% income burden, suggests good value for those able to secure financing.
Balanced Option for Michigan Movers
Manistee County offers middle-ground affordability without the premium pricing of Macomb or the ultra-cheap costs of Menominee, making it ideal for renters and buyers seeking stability. Research local employment in your field, then compare this county's balanced 16.2% ratio against more expensive alternatives to plan your Michigan relocation.
Cost of Living Advisory: Manistee County
Affordability Verdict
Manistee County is affordable for renters, with a median gross rent of $820/month representing approximately 16.2% of median household income. The rent burden (GRAPI) stands at 33.0%.
Rent vs. Own
At $820/month rent versus $784/month in owner costs, owning is roughly $36/month cheaper — a 4% difference.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $32,800/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $33,600/year. With a median household income of $60,879, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 33.0% of renter households in Manistee County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Within Michigan, Manistee County is more affordable than Oceana County by roughly 7% ($820/mo vs $768/mo).
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Manistee County
Rent Burden
16.2%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,421
per month
Owner Cost Burden
15.5%
of gross income
You can likely afford the median home in Manistee County
Median home value is $166,600. Estimated monthly cost: $1,330 vs. your max of $1,421.
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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