Michigan is one of the most affordable states in the U.S., making it an excellent choice for students seeking quality education without high expenses. Whether you’re moving to Michigan for college or just curious about costs, this guide provides a detailed breakdown of the cost of living in Michigan in 2025.
From housing and transportation to groceries and utilities, understanding these expenses helps students plan their budgets wisely. By planning ahead, students can make the most of their college experience in Michigan while maintaining financial stability.
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Cost of Living in Michigan in 2025
Managing the cost of living in Michigan is important when relocating. On average, a family of four spends about USD 4,234 per month (excluding rent), while a single person spends around USD 1,197 per month (excluding rent). Overall, the cost of living in Michigan is about 4% lower than the U.S. average. Several factors contribute to the cost of living in Michigan, including housing, transportation, utilities, groceries, and more. Here’s a breakdown of the main expenses you can expect.
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Housing Costs in Michigan
Housing is often the largest expense for students. Whether you choose on-campus dorms, off-campus apartments, or shared housing, Michigan offers affordable options. The cost of living in Michigan is significantly lower than in other states, which helps students find budget-friendly accommodations. Choosing the right housing option can help students manage their expenses efficiently. Here are some common rent prices:
| Apartment Location | Approx Monthly Cost |
| One-bedroom Apartment in the City Centre | USD 1,414 |
| One-bedroom Apartment Outside of the Centre | USD 1,026 |
| Three-bedroom Apartment in the City Centre | USD 3,333 |
| Three-bedroom Apartment Outside of the Centre | USD 1,658 |
Utility Expenses
Utility Bills vary by location and season, but overall, Michigan remains below the national average in utility expenses. The cost of living in Michigan is influenced by seasonal variations in utility expenses, especially during winter.
- Electricity: USD 115 per month
- Water and Sewer: USD 45 per month
- Internet: USD 50 – USD 80 per month
- Heating (Winter Months): Can increase bills by 30–50%
For students living in dorms, these costs are often included in tuition and housing fees, while off-campus students should budget accordingly. Managing utility expenses is essential when calculating the overall cost of living in Michigan as a student.
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Transportation Costs
Michigan offers several transportation options, making it convenient for students to commute to college campuses. The cost of living in Michigan also includes transportation costs, which vary depending on whether students use public transport or own a vehicle.
| Mode of Transport | Approx Monthly Cost |
| Price of a One-way Ticket for Local Transport | USD 2.00 |
| Regular Price of Monthly Pass | USD 66.00 |
| Cost of Taxi Start (Normal Tariff) | USD 2.50 |
| Cost of Taxi 1 km (Normal Tariff) | USD 1.40 |
| Cost of Taxi 1 hour Waiting (Normal Tariff) | USD 48.00 |
| Gasoline (1 litre) | USD 0.91 |
Many universities in Michigan provide free or discounted transit passes to students, helping reduce overall travel expenses. Being mindful of transportation costs helps students manage the cost of living in Michigan effectively.
Food and Grocery Expenses
Food is another essential expense for students. The cost of living in Michigan is also reflected in grocery and dining expenses. Fortunately, Michigan’s cost of groceries is about 8% lower than the national average, allowing students to save money by cooking at home.
- University Meal Plans: USD 3,000 – USD 5,500 per academic year
- Fast Food Meals: USD 7 – USD 12
- Casual Dining: USD 15 – USD 25 per meal
However, cooking at home is a great way to cut down on the cost of living in Michigan and make the most of a student budget. It lets you control your meals, eat healthier, and reduce costs. To help you plan your grocery budget, we’ve provided a list of common grocery items and their prices in Michigan
| Grocery Item | Approx Cost |
| Milk (regular), (1 liter) | USD 0.92 |
| Loaf of Fresh White Bread (500g) | USD 2.97 |
| Rice (white), (1kg) | USD 5.69 |
| Eggs (regular) (12) | USD 3.18 |
| Apples (1kg) | USD 4.17 |
| Banana (1kg) | USD 1.36 |
| Oranges (1kg) | USD 5 |
| Tomato (1kg) | USD 4.59 |
| Potato (1kg) | USD 3.71 |
| Onion (1kg) | USD 2.69 |
| Lettuce (1 head) | USD 2.62 |
| Water (1.5-liter bottle) | 2.50 USD |
| meat, egg, drinks and Other items | USD 73 |
Healthcare Costs
Healthcare expenses can be a concern for students. Michigan provides various options, including student health insurance plans offered by universities. Factoring in healthcare is essential when considering the cost of living in Michigan as a student.
- University Health Insurance: USD 1,200 – USD 2,500 per year
- Doctor’s Visit (Without Insurance): USD 100 – USD 200
- Emergency Room Visit: USD 1,000+
- Prescription Medications: USD 10 – USD 50 per month (varies by medication)
Students should check if their university offers free or low-cost health services to reduce medical expenses. Keeping healthcare costs in check is an important part of managing the overall cost of living in Michigan.
Education Costs in Michigan
If you’re attending a university in Michigan, tuition fees will be a major expense. The cost of living in Michigan for students includes tuition, books, and other academic necessities. Here’s an overview:
| Name of University | Approximate tuition fees per year |
| University of Michigan | USD 13,650 |
| Michigan State University | USD 15,372 |
| Michigan Technological University | USD 39,574 |
| Lawrence Technological University | USD 39,570 |
| Central Michigan University | USD 13,650 |
Michigan offers various scholarships, grants, and financial aid programs to help students manage tuition costs. Planning ahead for tuition and educational expenses is key to handling the cost of living in Michigan.
Factors Affecting the Cost of Living in Michigan
The cost of living in Michigan is influenced by various factors, including housing, transportation, taxes, and everyday expenses, which can vary significantly depending on location and lifestyle.
- Housing Costs – Vary widely by city, with higher prices in Ann Arbor and Grand Rapids compared to rural areas.
- Utilities & Energy Costs – Cold winters lead to high heating bills, and utility rates differ by location.
- Transportation Expenses – Gas prices, car insurance rates, and limited public transit increase costs.
- Food & Grocery Prices – Urban areas have higher prices, but Michigan’s agriculture helps keep some food costs lower.
- Healthcare Costs – Vary by provider and region, with urban centers often having higher expenses.
- Taxes – Flat income tax rate (4.05%), 6% sales tax (excluding groceries and prescriptions), and varying property taxes.
- Recreation & Entertainment – Costs for dining out, sports, and cultural activities vary by city and personal lifestyle.
Tips to Manage the Cost of Living in Michigan
Managing the cost of living in Michigan can be easier with smart budgeting and lifestyle choices. Here are some practical tips to help you save money and stay financially stable while living in the state.
- Choose Affordable Housing – Consider living in more budget-friendly areas or sharing an apartment with roommates to reduce rent expenses.
- Use Public Transportation – Save money by using buses, biking, or carpooling instead of owning a car, especially in cities with reliable transit options.
- Cut Utility Costs – Be mindful of electricity, water, and heating usage to lower monthly bills. Energy-efficient appliances and habits can help.
- Shop Smart for Groceries – Buy in bulk, use coupons, and shop at budget-friendly grocery stores to save on food expenses.
- Take Advantage of Student Discounts – Many businesses, restaurants, and transportation services offer discounts to students, helping reduce daily costs.
- Plan a Budget – Track your expenses and set spending limits to avoid unnecessary purchases and stay financially stable.
- Find Part-Time Work – Consider on-campus jobs, freelance gigs, or internships to earn extra income while studying.
Michigan is one of the most affordable states for students, offering lower-than-average housing, transportation, and food costs. The cost of living in Michigan is reasonable, allowing students to manage their finances effectively. By utilizing student discounts, financial aid, and cost-saving strategies, you can make your education in Michigan budget-friendly.
We hope you enjoyed reading our blog on the cost of living in Michigan. For a stress-free stay during your study abroad adventure, choose Fly Homes. Call 1800572118 to reserve your ideal student accommodation abroad with ease.
FAQs
The average cost of living in Michigan for a single student is around USD 1,197 per month (excluding rent). This includes expenses for food, transportation, utilities, and other necessities.
The cost of living in Michigan is about 4% lower than the U.S. national average, making it more affordable than states like California, New York, and Massachusetts.
The cost of living in Michigan is affected by housing, utilities, transportation, food prices, healthcare costs, and education expenses. The city you live in also impacts overall expenses.
Yes, Michigan is one of the more affordable states in the U.S., with living costs about 4% lower than the national average.
A single person spends around USD 1,197 per month on essentials like food, transportation, and utilities.
On average, a student spends between USD 200 – USD 400 per month on groceries, depending on their eating habits. Cooking at home is significantly cheaper than eating out and can help students save a lot of money over time.
On-campus housing may include utilities and meal plans but can be slightly more expensive. Off-campus housing can be more affordable, especially if shared with roommates, but requires separate payments for rent, utilities, and transportation.
Cities like Lansing, Kalamazoo, and Flint tend to have lower housing and living costs compared to Ann Arbor and Grand Rapids, which have higher demand due to major universities.
Owning a car in Michigan involves gas costs (USD 0.91 per liter), insurance, maintenance, and parking fees. Public transportation is more affordable for students living in urban areas.
Some universities, such as the University of Michigan and Michigan State University, provide free or discounted transit passes for students to help reduce transportation costs.
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