10 Affordable Places in Michigan for Retirees on a Social Security Budget

When a couple reaches retirement age at roughly the same time, they typically need to decide where they wish to live their golden years. Finding something economical will be your top concern if you need to survive on a single Social Security payment.

The Social Security Administration estimates that as of July 2023, the typical monthly retirement benefit will be $1,790.56. No matter where you live, managing to cover bills is difficult, but places with high cost of living make it even harder.

Earlier this year, the AARP revealed that U.S. Census Bureau data indicated that an increasing number of retirees and retired couples are relocating to neighboring states to obtain cheaper homes.

Michigan, which is within the top five states in the nation in this regard, is one of the most well-liked travel destinations.

Farmington Hills

10-affordable-places-in-michigan-for-retirees-on-a-social-security-budget — When a couple reaches retirement age at roughly the same time, they typically need to decide where they wish to live their golden years.

Average Rent per Month: $1,182

Average Monthly Cost of Living: $2,116.69

Livability score: 81

Due to its proximity to Detroit and Ann Arbor, Farmington Hills is a great place for couples who like to take advantage of big-city facilities.

There are plenty of food, entertainment, cultural, and recreational opportunities in Farmington Hills itself.

Lansing

Average Rent per Month: $1,074

Average Monthly Cost of Living: $2,249.02

Livability score: 78

The capital city of Michigan is situated in the middle of the state, making it simple to go to other regions and enjoy the natural beauty of Lake Michigan or Lake Huron or the busy metropolis of Detroit.

The adjacent East Lansing campus of Michigan State University is perfect if you and your partner enjoy watching college sports.

Ypsilanti

Average Rent per Month: $1,145

Average Monthly Cost of Living: $2,310.28

Livability score: 77

Locals refer to this city east of Ann Arbor as “Ypsi” and it is best known as the location of Eastern Michigan University.

With two main districts that include historic regions and a wealth of local retail alternatives, it has been characterized as a progressive city with an autonomous atmosphere and eclectic creative culture.

Westland

Average Rent per Month: $1,155

Average Monthly Cost of Living: $2,309.41

Livability score: 75

Westland, which is about 25 miles west of Detroit, has lots of facilities while maintaining a small-town feel.

Senior Friendship Center, a 17,000 square foot facility with recreational and social activities along with educational, fitness, and social programs targeted for persons 50 and over, can be enjoyable for retired couples.

Grand Rapids

Average Rent per Month: $1,511

Average Monthly Cost of Living: $2,669.40

Livability score: 82

Grand Rapids, which is situated on the Grand River to the east of Lake Michigan, was named the third-best city in the US for entertainment and recreation by Places Rated Almanac.

For retired couples who like to stay active, it provides a variety of cultural locations as well as lots of outdoor recreation possibilities.

Jackson

Average Rent per Month: $1,013.

Average Monthly Cost of Living: $2,225.77

Livability score: 73

Couples that appreciate a small-town atmosphere and accessibility to urban centers will find Jackson, a tiny city, to be the perfect fit. It is about an hour’s drive from both Ann Arbor and Lansing.

The Ella Sharp Museum of Art and History and 28 separate public parks rank among the top attractions.

Holland

Average Rent per Month: $1,538

Average Monthly Cost of Living: $2,672.11

Livability score: 81

Holland, which is situated on the edge of Lake Macatawa, is a great place for couples who prefer to wander around a town atmosphere.

More than 100 speciality stores, breweries, and restaurants can be found in Holland’s downtown along with heated streets and cobblestone pathways.

Novi

Average Rent per Month: $1,759

Average Monthly Cost of Living: $2,932.63

Livability score: 86

You can easily enter Motor City via Novi, a suburb to the northwest of Detroit.

With a variety of lakes, golf courses, and hiking paths, as well as the 1,000-acre Maybury State Park, it’s also a great place for outdoor leisure fans.

Midland

Average Rent per Month: $1,579

Average Monthly Cost of Living: $2,791.69

Livability score: 83

Midland has been characterized as an artistic city with plenty of mid-century modern buildings.

The Midland Center for the Arts, a nature center, a 30-mile rail path, and America’s largest canopy walk are all located there.

Dearborn Heights

Average Rent per Month: $1,395

Average Monthly Cost of Living: $2,539.88