A renter’s guide to the cheapest cities in Michigan
Looking for a new rental in Michigan? Explore our list of eight affordable cities for renters in the Great Lakes State.
The rental life can be stressful. Between finding the right apartment, applying, figuring out whether or not you’ll need roommates, coordinating move-out dates with your current landlord, and eventually lugging all your earthly possessions to a brand new space, there’s just… a LOT to consider as you look for houses or apartments to rent in Michigan.
It’s safe to assume that one consideration outweighs most others when it comes to finding the perfect rental space: cost. For most folks, rent makes up the largest portion of their monthly bills, and paying too much can leave renters without enough cash to cover other expenses.
Here in Michigan, there’s a wide range of price points to consider as you hunt for a new spot to call home, but we like to highlight the more affordable side of life in the Great Lakes State. Whether you’re a newcomer to the state or a lifelong Michigander who simply needs some fresh digs, check out our list of the eight cheapest cities in Michigan for renters.
Our roundup is based on Nov. 2025 data from Apartments.com and CoStar Group Researchers.
1. Flint
Average monthly rent: $776
Average apartment size: 672 square feet
Flint might not have the most glowing reputation throughout the state, but incidents like the Flint water crisis have painted the area in an unflattering light that doesn’t represent its true depth. No, you won’t find glitz and glamour in Flint, but you will find insight into Michigan’s fascinating history, beautiful works at the Flint Museum of Art, fresh produce at the city’s farmers market, and even a unique manmade waterfall called Stepping Stone Falls.
Nature enthusiasts will appreciate local trails, while foodies can dig into fare from locally loved eateries like White Horse Tavern and Redwood Steakhouse and Brewery. The affordable rent is just the cherry on top.
2. Lansing
Average monthly rent: $1,000
Average apartment size: 657 square feet
You don’t have to be a politician or a hardcore fan of the Michigan State Spartans to call Lansing (or East Lansing) home. But if you’re looking for an affordable place to call home smack dab in the center of the state, the city of Lansing has you covered.
Just a stone’s throw away from East Lansing and the impressive academics at MSU, Lansing houses everything from the State Capitol building to the Michigan History Center to a sprawling zoo. History buffs will appreciate a walk through the Old Town neighborhood, while the Lansing River Trail is just as charming as it sounds. It’s pretty easy to love Lansing life.
3. Kalamazoo
Average monthly rent:$1,087
Average apartment size: 703 square feet
Another college town made the list! Of course, there’s so much more to Kalamazoo than Western Michigan University and Kalamazoo College, though these are certainly attractions. Kalamazoo is a wonderland for beer fanatics, history enthusiasts, adventurous families, and even nature lovers.
Enjoy a pint at the iconic Bell’s Brewery before digging into aviation history at the Air Zoo. For a calmer experience, take a stroll through the campus of Kalamazoo College (known fondly as K College to most).
4. Sterling Heights
Average monthly rent: $1,092
Average apartment size: 724 square feet
This Metro Detroit suburb is close enough to the Motor City to offer quick access to concerts, sporting events, and more, yet far away enough to provide a quieter vibe. It might not be as bustling as downtown Detroit, but Sterling Heights is home to fun attractions like the Sterling Heights Nature Center, the charming Yates Cider Mill, and plenty of restaurants and shops.
With its affordable rent, it’s a great place to call home if you want close access to Detroit without committing to city life.
5. Detroit
Average monthly rent: $1,097
Average apartment size: 660 square feet
Speaking of the city, Detroit is next on the list—and we’re so glad. Not only is living in Detroit as a renter quite affordable, it’s also just downright fun. We’re staunch defenders of all things Detroit and we know there’s truly something for everyone in the Motor City.
Jog along the Dequindre Cut, learn about music history at the Motown Museum, catch a jazz show at Cliff Bell’s, or simply take in the sights on Belle Isle. This is only a tiny smattering of what Detroit offers—we haven’t even gotten started on the best coney dogs in town.
6. Southfield
Average monthly rent: $1,181
Average apartment size: 834 square feet
Southfield is another Detroit suburb that provides a small-town feel just minutes from the metropolis of the Motor City. It’s a great choice for single folks and families who appreciate the great outdoors, offering natural attractions like Evergreen Woods Nature Trail, Carpenter Lake Nature Preserve, and Inglenook Park, which is fantastic for kids.
Fill up on barbecue at Midtown Smoke House or satisfy your pizza craving at Bigalora Wood Fired Cucina after a long day of fun in this affordable Michigan city.
7. Wyoming
Average monthly rent: $1,230
Average apartment size: 685 square feet
No, we’re not talking about the state of Wyoming. We’re talking about Wyoming, Michigan, a suburb of Grand Rapids that doesn’t get as much positive attention as it deserves. This community is close enough to downtown Grand Rapids to keep the excitement alive, but it also offers fun of its own in the form of family-friendly parks, golf courses, and restaurants. The best part? You won’t have to worry about breaking the bank when rent is due every month.
8. Livonia
Average monthly rent: $1,294
Average apartment size: 780 square feet
Situated about 20 miles from Detroit, Livonia boasts a unique mix of history and modern fun. Get up close and personal with the area’s past at Greenmead Historic Park or make a few purchases at the Town Peddler Craft and Antique Mall.
Shop ‘til you drop at Lauren Park Place or get your fill of car memorabilia at the Roush Automotive Collection. With all that money you’re saving on rent, you’ll have plenty of time to spend weekends out on the town in Detroit.
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