Cost of Living in River rouge, MI
River rouge cost of living index: 71.53 (below the US average). Median home price: $84,000.
Updated 2026 • Based on 3 local zip codes
📍 Some data sourced from nearby metro area
% below the national average
Housing
Data from 3 zip codes
Housing costs in River rouge, MI based on real market data from 3 local zip codes.
When considering a move to River rouge, MI, it's essential to note the current housing landscape. With a median home price of 84000.0, it's relatively affordable, making homeownership attainable. However, the data indicates no figures for the housing index and rental prices for 2-bedroom apartments and houses, suggesting either a very low market activity or a lack of available listings. This situation could offer opportunities for investors, but it may challenge renters seeking suitable accommodations. Additionally, understanding the local job market and amenities is crucial for informed decision-making.
Last updated: January 2026
Utilities
The cost of utilities such as electricity, natural gas, and other services can significantly impact the overall cost of living.
Living in River rouge, MI could entail variable utility costs. Electricity costs sit at $19.88, while natural gas is priced at $15.42 per Thousand Cubic Feet. Expect to budget about $126.9 monthly for other services like water and garbage.
Cost Breakdown by Category
Local Income & Economy in River rouge, MI
How far does your money go in River rouge? Understanding the relationship between income and cost of living is key to evaluating affordability.
How We Calculate Adjusted Purchasing Power in River rouge
The adjusted purchasing power shows what a River rouge, MI household income is actually worth after accounting for local prices. We calculate it using the formula: Purchasing Power = Median Income ÷ Cost of Living Index × 100
For River rouge, that's $26,343 ÷ 71.53 × 100 = $36,828. This means a household earning the median income in River rouge has the equivalent buying power of $36,828 in a city where the cost of living index equals the national baseline of 100.
River rouge is well below the national cost of living average at 71.53, making it one of the more affordable places to live in MI. The median income of $26,343 has an effective purchasing power of $36,828 — a meaningful boost that allows residents to save more, invest in real estate, or enjoy a higher standard of living compared to expensive metro areas.
However, it's important to note that the poverty rate in River rouge is 32%, which is above the national average. While living costs are low, income levels may also be lower for some households. Understanding both the cost of living and local income distribution is important when evaluating whether River rouge, MI is the right fit for your budget and lifestyle.
💡 Purchasing power is calculated by dividing the local median household income by the cost of living index and multiplying by 100. A result higher than the nominal income means your money goes further; a lower result means local prices erode your earnings. The US baseline cost of living index is 100.
Pros & Cons of Living in River rouge
Pros
- • Various cultural events
- • Nearby Detroit for entertainment
- • Access to public transportation
- • Diverse food scene
- • Historic sites to explore
- • Family-friendly neighborhoods
- • Good community resources
- • Affordable housing options
- • Close-knit community vibe
- • Local parks for outdoor activities
Cons
- • High crime rates reported
- • Some areas have poverty issues
- • Social services may be lacking
- • Economic instability concerns
- • Limited nightlife options
- • Perceptions of racism exist
- • Struggling job market
- • Declining school performance
- • Transportation can be limited
- • Not very diverse demographics
💡City Insights
River rouge scores 8/10 for affordability, 5/10 for safety, and 5/10 for family-friendliness — an good overall profile. Its strongest aspect is affordability, making it particularly suitable for budget-conscious buyers. This balanced profile makes River rouge worth considering for various lifestyle priorities.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cost of living in River rouge, MI? ▼
The cost of living in River rouge, MI is 28% lower than the national average, with a cost of living index of 72 (where 100 represents the U.S. average). Housing typically accounts for the largest portion of living expenses. See full cost of living breakdown →
How much does it cost to buy or rent a home in River rouge, MI? ▼
In River rouge, MI, The median home price is $84,000. requiring approximately $60,857 annual income to afford. Average rent is $1,000/month (requiring ~$39,980/year income). The local median household income is $26,343, making homeownership attainable for typical residents. Explore River rouge real estate data →
Is River rouge, MI a safe place to live? ▼
River rouge, MI is average in terms of safety, with crime rates near the national average. Safety varies significantly by neighborhood. View detailed River rouge crime statistics →
What salary do you need to live comfortably in River rouge, MI? ▼
To live comfortably in River rouge, MI and afford a median-priced home of $84,000, you would typically need a household income of $21,000 to $26,250 per year. The local median household income is $26,343. Renting requires approximately $39,980/year (at $1,000/month). See full affordability analysis →
What are the best neighborhoods in River rouge, MI? ▼
The best neighborhoods in River rouge, MI depend on your priorities. For families, look for areas near top-rated schools with lower crime rates. For affordability, neighborhoods throughout the city offer good value since the median home price of $84,000 is below the national average.
How are the taxes in River rouge, MI? ▼
Tax rates in River rouge, MI include state and local components. The cost of living index of 72 suggests a lower overall tax and expense burden cost environment compared to the national average. View detailed River rouge tax information →
How does River rouge, MI compare to nearby cities? ▼
River rouge, MI offers a more affordable alternative to nearby communities. With a cost of living index of 72, median home prices of $84,000, and a crime rate of 0 per 1,000 residents, you can compare these metrics side-by-side. Use the compare feature to evaluate specific cities.
What is the weather like in River rouge, MI? ▼
Weather in River rouge, MI varies by season. Climate data varies by season. View detailed River rouge climate & environment data →
What factors affect cost of living in River rouge, MI? ▼
The main factors affecting cost of living in River rouge, MI include housing costs (the biggest factor), utilities, groceries, transportation, and healthcare. Local taxes and the overall economic conditions also play a role.
Housing Costs by Zip Code
Detailed housing data across 3 zip codes in River rouge, MI.
| Zip Code | Median Home Price | Avg Rent | 2BR Rent | For Sale | For Rent |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 48217 | $80,000 | $1,350/mo | — | 18 | 1 |
| 48218 | $89,900 | $1,150/mo | $850/mo | 48 | 9 |
| 48229 | $84,000 | $1,173/mo | $1,149/mo | 50 | 19 |
Explore More About River rouge, MI
📅 Last Updated: January 2026
Sources: U.S. Census Bureau (ACS), Bureau of Labor Statistics, Council for Community and Economic Research (C2ER), Zillow, Redfin