Cost of Living in Montmorency County, Michigan
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Montmorency County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Montmorency County ranks #1,346 of 3,144 counties for affordability (top 43%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Montmorency County, Michigan
Montmorency faces affordability challenges
With a 20.4% rent-to-income ratio, Montmorency residents spend nearly a quarter more on housing than the national average of 16.3%, despite earning $26,952 less than U.S. median households. This strain reflects economic headwinds that make housing cost a significant household burden here.
Michigan's most pressured rental market
Montmorency's 20.4% rent-to-income ratio stands sharply above Michigan's 16.3% average, making it the state's most affordability-challenged county for renters. This gap signals that local income growth has not kept pace with housing costs, creating financial stress for many households.
Struggling compared to the region
Montmorency's $811 rent is the region's lowest, yet its 20.4% burden far exceeds Missaukee (16.3%), Montcalm (16.0%), and Muskegon (18.1%). The county's $47,803 median income—the lowest in this peer group—explains why even modest rents consume an outsized share of earnings here.
Housing dominates household budgets
Montmorency's $47,803 median income is strained by $811 monthly rent (20.4% of earnings) or $705 ownership costs (17.7%), leaving limited resources for other necessities. The county's lower incomes and cost pressures mean residents here face tougher financial trade-offs than Michigan's average.
Weigh carefully before relocating here
Montmorency offers Michigan's lowest absolute rents, but its 20.4% rent-to-income ratio signals real affordability strain compared to the rest of the state and nation. If you're considering a move here, verify that your incoming wages will significantly exceed the county median to ensure housing remains manageable.
Cost of Living Advisory: Montmorency County
Affordability Verdict
Montmorency County offers affordable rental housing at a median of $811/month — about 20.4% of the typical household income here.
Rent vs. Own
At $811/month rent versus $705/month in owner costs, owning is roughly $106/month cheaper — a 13% difference.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $32,440/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $30,214/year. With a median household income of $47,803, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 39.0% of renter households in Montmorency County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Montmorency County sits 6% less expensive than Isabella County ($863/month) in terms of median gross rent.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Montmorency County
Rent Burden
20.4%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,115
per month
Owner Cost Burden
17.7%
of gross income
The median home in Montmorency County may be a stretch
Median home value is $142,000. Estimated monthly cost: $1,134 vs. your max of $1,115.
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
What is the cost of living in Montmorency County, Michigan?
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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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