Cost of Living in Ogemaw County, Michigan
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Ogemaw County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Ogemaw County ranks #2,410 of 3,144 counties for affordability (bottom 23%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Ogemaw County, Michigan
Ogemaw rents stretch income farther than U.S. average
Ogemaw County residents spend 19.1% of their income on rent, compared to the national average of roughly 30%, making housing more affordable here than across most of America. However, the county's median household income of $51,983 runs 30% below the national median of $74,755, meaning affordability comes partly from lower wages overall.
Above-average rent burden in Michigan
Ogemaw's 19.1% rent-to-income ratio exceeds Michigan's state average of 16.3%, placing it among less affordable counties in the state. The median rent of $828 per month also tops the state's median of $873, reflecting higher local demand relative to incomes.
Pricier than Osceola but cheaper than Otsego
Ogemaw's median rent of $828 sits between neighboring Osceola County ($764) and Otsego County ($880), but its rent burden is higher due to lower incomes. Renters here pay proportionally more of their paychecks toward housing than those in adjacent Osceola or Oscoda counties.
Renters and owners both stretched tight
Median gross rent of $828 and median monthly owner costs of $702 consume roughly a third of monthly household income after taxes. At current income levels, both renting and buying in Ogemaw leaves limited money for other expenses.
Consider Ogemaw's trade-offs carefully
If you're relocating to northern Michigan, Ogemaw offers moderate rent relative to the nation but above-state-average burden; Osceola County offers slightly cheaper rent with better affordability ratios. Compare your expected salary against these local income figures before committing to the move.
Cost of Living Advisory: Ogemaw County
Affordability Verdict
Ogemaw County is affordable for renters, with a median gross rent of $828/month representing approximately 19.1% of median household income. The rent burden (GRAPI) stands at 37.0%.
Rent vs. Own
The median rent in Ogemaw County is $828/month, while owner costs run $702/month. Owning saves approximately $126/month.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $33,120/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $30,086/year. With a median household income of $51,983, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 37.0% of renter households in Ogemaw County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Compared to Otsego County where rent averages $880/month, Ogemaw County is approximately 6% less expensive.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Ogemaw County
Rent Burden
19.1%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,213
per month
Owner Cost Burden
16.2%
of gross income
You can likely afford the median home in Ogemaw County
Median home value is $138,600. Estimated monthly cost: $1,106 vs. your max of $1,213.
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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