Cost of Living in Marquette County, Michigan
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Marquette County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Marquette County ranks #1,506 of 3,144 counties for affordability (top 48%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Marquette County, Michigan
Marquette: Moderate National Affordability
Marquette County households allocate 17.1% of income to rent, slightly above comfortable affordability levels but manageable for most American earners. With a median household income of $64,675 and monthly rent of $923, residents here navigate housing costs in the middle range of national markets.
Slightly Tighter Than Michigan Average
Marquette County's rent-to-income ratio of 17.1% edges above Michigan's state average of 16.3%, positioning it as slightly less affordable than typical for the state. The county's median rent of $923 exceeds Michigan's $873 average by $50, reflecting Upper Peninsula dynamics and regional demand.
Mid-Range Costs Among Peers
Marquette County's monthly rent of $923 ranks higher than Manistee ($820) and Mackinac ($761) but remains below Macomb's premium $1,175. The median home value of $202,000 sits squarely in the middle of this regional cohort, offering balance between affordability and market strength.
Ownership Slightly Below Renting
Marquette County renters pay $923 monthly while homeowners spend $873—a $50 monthly advantage for those with mortgages. Combined with a 17.1% income allocation to housing, the county shows modest ownership benefits compared to renting.
Upper Peninsula Gateway for Movers
Marquette County serves as an affordable entry point to Michigan's Upper Peninsula with reasonable ownership costs and solid regional job anchors. If you're considering relocation, weigh Marquette's 17.1% housing ratio against nearby options like Menominee (14.6%) or Manistee (16.2%) to maximize your relocation budget.
Cost of Living Advisory: Marquette County
Affordability Verdict
Housing in Marquette County is affordable. The median rent is $923/month against a median household income of $64,675, putting rent at 17.1% of income.
Rent vs. Own
The median rent in Marquette County is $923/month, while owner costs run $873/month. Owning saves approximately $50/month.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $36,920/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $37,414/year. With a median household income of $64,675, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 31.0% of renter households in Marquette County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Marquette County sits 5% less expensive than Benzie County ($974/month) in terms of median gross rent.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Marquette County
Rent Burden
17.1%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,509
per month
Owner Cost Burden
16.2%
of gross income
The median home in Marquette County may be a stretch
Median home value is $202,000. Estimated monthly cost: $1,613 vs. your max of $1,509.
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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