The Top 10 Most Affordable Cities in Michigan

Affectionately known as the Mitten State, Michigan is best known for being sculptured by four of the Great Lakes. There’s more to love about Michigan than the massive freshwater lakes; the automobile industry, breweries, lighthouses, and more all give the Great Lakes State its special charm. If you’re looking to move to Michigan to buy or build your dream home, NewHomeSource has compiled a list of the 10 most affordable cities to help inform your choice.

10 Most Affordable Cities

1. Jackson

Home Price to Income Ratio: 1.93

Average Property Tax: $1,012

Median Household Income: $35,464

The most affordable state is Jackson. Located approximately 40 miles west of Ann Arbor, Jackson is the only city in Jackson County. Check out the many local parks or learn about state military history at the Michigan Military Heritage Museum.

2. Mount Morris

Home Price to Income Ratio: 1.93

Average Property Tax: $1,566

Median Household Income: $33,480

Mount Morris is a small township of about 3,000 residents. Mount Morris has all the essentials, including grocery stores, restaurants, parks, and places of worship. For those seeking a thrill, check out the paintball center at the city’s westside!

3. Battle Creek

Home Price to Income Ratio: 2.05

Average Property Tax: $1,644

Median Household Income: $42,298

Battle Creek is in southern Michigan along the Battle Creek River and Kalamazoo River. Outdoor enthusiasts will love the riverside parks, nature preserve, and Goguac Lake Willard Beach Pavilion. Further north, residents can enjoy farmers markets, museums, and the cultural Art Center of Battle Creek.

4. Burton

Home Price to Income Ratio: 2.09

Average Property Tax: $2,335

Median Household Income: $42,002

Burton is located in Genesee County, just east of Flint. One major point of interest is the For-Mar Nature Preserve & Arboretum, which features 383 acres of trees, trails, and a playhouse. Burton residents also enjoy activities such as skating at Crystal Fieldhouse Ice Arena, and fishing at Kelly Lake Park.

5. Kalamazoo

Home Price to Income Ratio: 2.55

Average Property Tax: $1,844

Median Household Income: $41,774

Kalamazoo is a thriving city of over 75,000 residents. From nature preserves, country clubs, music theaters, and shopping centers, you’ll never be bored in Kalamazoo. The downtown district is packed with attractions, including museums, art centers, and a state theater. The Kalamazoo River snakes through the city’s northeast side, and you’ll find parks and golf courses with a riverside view.

6. Saginaw

Home Price to Income Ratio: 1.36

Average Property Tax: $710

Median Household Income: $29,582

Saginaw is a centrally located Michigan city with just under 50,000 residents. The city is bisected by the Saginaw River, which features many parks along its banks. Other notable attractions include Saginaw Children’s Zoo, Saginaw Railway Museum, and Saginaw Art Museum.

7. Flint

Home Price to Income Ratio: 1.02

Average Property Tax: $534

Median Household Income: $28,834

Located 66 miles northwest of Detroit, Flint is the seat of Genesee County. The Flint River winds through downtown, where you can find art museums, historical landmarks complete with museums, and the University of Michigan-Flint. Enjoy a myriad of parks throughout the city, many of which feature golf courses and skate parks.

8. Muskegon

Home Price to Income Ratio: 2.25

Average Property Tax: $1,190

Median Household Income: $32,433

Muskegon is situated on the western part of the state, bordering the shores of Lake Michigan. Interested in an idyllic beach getaway? Living in Muskegon, you won’t need to travel far to enjoy sailing and fishing. You will also want to check out one of the exhibits such as Muskegon South Pierhead Lighthouse and the USS Silversides Submarine Museum. Further inland, visit the wealth of stores, parks, and restaurants that await you.

9. Bedford

Home Price to Income Ratio: 2.21

Average Property Tax: $2,506

Median Household Income: $49,020

Bedford is a charter township located just northwest of Battle Creek. Featuring lakes, parks, and golf courses, Bedford is a charming town that offers an easygoing lifestyle. The North Branch Kalamazoo River meanders through the southern section of the township and makes a perfect place to fish or hike.

10. Detroit

Home Price to Income Ratio: 1.59

Average Property Tax: $1,156

Median Household Income: $30,894

The most affordable state in Michigan is also the biggest – Detroit! Motor City has no shortage of character and things to do. Visit the Detroit Institute of Art and view the paintings by Diego Rivera, catch a concert at Campus Martius Park – named the Top Public Square by USA Today in 2021 – or take a bike ride through the greenway, Dequindre Cut. 

Cities with the Best Home Price to Income Ratio

While the list above is sorted by the lowest overall cost of living index, the following cities have the lowest home price to income ratio, meaning you can get more home for your money.

• Birmingham
• Flint
• Saginaw