Battle Creek And Kalamazoo Offer Affordable Living Options, 7.1% And 6.7% Below Average

If you’ve ever wondered whether Michigan is actually a good deal compared to the rest of the country, according to the data, the answer is yes.  But what cities in Michigan have the best and worst cost of living in 2026?

Michigan’s overall cost of living runs about 7% below the national average in 2026, which is good news for anyone planting roots here in the Great Lakes State, according to Salary.com.

“Michigan’s 2026 cost of living is $2302 per month for singles and $5068 per month for families of four. Living costs in Michigan are 7% lower than the U.S. national average.”

5 Cities in Michigan with the Lowest Cost of Living

5. Kalamazoo

Kalamazoo’s overall cost of living is 6.7% lower than the national average.

Cost of living compared to the U.S. average by expense category.

  • Housing: -36.4%
  • Food: -34.5%
  • Energy: -20.5%
  • Transportation: -9.3%
  • Healthcare: -22.1%

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4. Battle Creek

Battle Creek’s overall cost of living is 7.1% lower than the national average…

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