Cost of Living: Trenton vs Ann Arbor (2026)
A one-bedroom apartment runs $1,700/mo in Trenton vs $1,750/mo in Ann Arbor — a 3% difference. Ann Arbor has a lower state income tax rate (4.1% vs 9%), which adds up over time.
- 1BR rent: $1,700/mo in Trenton vs $1,750/mo — 3% savings
- Higher median household income: Ann Arbor ($72,000/yr vs $55,000/yr)
- Median home price: $310,000 in Trenton vs $400,000 — 23% difference
| Category | Trenton New Jersey | Ann Arbor Michigan |
|---|---|---|
| 🏠 HousingQ1 2026 | ||
| Studio rent/mo | $1,350Best | $1,400 |
| 1BR rent/mo | $1,700Best | $1,750 |
| 2BR rent/mo | $2,300Best | $2,300 |
| Median home price | $310KBest | $400K |
| 🛒 Food & GroceriesQ1 2026 | ||
| Groceries index (100 = US avg) | 104 | 101Best |
| Budget meal (1 person) | $15 | $14Best |
| Mid-range dinner (2) | $62 | $58Best |
| 🚌 TransportationQ1 2026 | ||
| Monthly transit pass/mo | $80 | $65Best |
| Gas price/gal | $3.40 | $3.20Best |
| Car insurance/mo | $172 | $145Best |
| ⚡ UtilitiesQ1 2026 | ||
| Monthly utilities bundle/mo | $215 | $162Best |
| Internet/mo | $68 | $63Best |
| 💰 Income & TaxesQ1 2026 | ||
| Median household income/yr | $55K | $72KBest |
| State income tax% | 9.0% | 4.1%Best |
| Sales tax (combined)% | 6.6% | 6.0%Best |
| 🎬 LeisureQ1 2026 | ||
| Movie ticket | $15.00Best | $15.00 |
| Gym membership/mo | $45 | $42Best |
| Beer at restaurant | $7.00 | $6.50Best |
| 📊 OverviewQ1 2026 | ||
| Overall COL index (100 = US avg) | 105Best | 105 |
| Walk score / 100 | 63Best | 55 |
Frequently asked questions
What is the average rent in Trenton vs Ann Arbor?
As of Q1 2026, the median 1-bedroom rent in Trenton is $1,700/month and in Ann Arbor is $1,750/month. Trenton is cheaper by 3%.
How much do I need to earn in Ann Arbor to match a $75,000 salary in Trenton?
To maintain a similar lifestyle, you would need approximately $75,000/year in Ann Arbor to match a $75,000 salary in Trenton. This estimate is based on overall cost of living indices and does not account for individual spending patterns.
Which city has lower taxes — Trenton or Ann Arbor?
Ann Arbor has the lower state income tax rate at 4.1% vs 9%. The difference is 4.9 percentage points. Note that sales tax and local taxes also vary — see the full breakdown in the table above.
Is it worth moving from Trenton to Ann Arbor?
It depends on your priorities. Both cities have similar overall costs. Use the comparison table above to evaluate rent, groceries, transportation, and income potential side by side based on your specific budget.
Data sourced from Zillow, BLS, Numbeo, Tax Foundation, and US Census ACS · Updated Q1 2026 · For general guidance only
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