LANSING, Mich. (WLNS) — Nearly 40% of Michigan residents struggle to afford basic needs, according to an analysis released by Poverty Solutions at the University of Michigan. About 13% of the state’s residents live below the federal poverty line, and more than 26% of households are employed but cannot afford the cost of living.
While the statewide share of residents in poverty has held steady for five years, researchers said some specific counties have experienced increased economic hardship during that same period.
According to Poverty Solutions, the median household income in Michigan is $72,336, and approximately 7% of adults in the state lack health insurance. Nearly 33% of households are considered housing-cost burdened, meaning they spend more than 30% of their income on housing expenses. For a three-person household in 2026, the federal poverty line is defined as an annual income of $27,320…