Moving from Worcester to Ann Arbor (2026)

Ann Arbor has a COL index of 105 vs 108 for Worcester (100 = US average). You'd pay about 3% less for the same lifestyle.

Save ~$65/mo
on core expenses · $75K salary baseline

Key differences

COL index
108105
100 = US avg
1BR rent
$1,750$1,750
per month
State tax
5%4.1%
income tax
Take-home at $75K
$4,428$4,484
per month

Salary needed in Ann Arbor to match your Worcester lifestyle

Based on the 3% cost of living decrease between the two cities.

Your salary in WorcesterEquivalent in Ann Arbor
$40K$38,889
$50K$48,611
$60K$58,333
$75K$72,917
$80K$77,778
$100K$97,222
$120K$116,667
$150K$145,833

Monthly budget at $75K — Worcester vs Ann Arbor

ExpenseWorcesterAnn Arbor
Monthly take-home$4,428$4,484
1BR rent$1,750$1,750
Groceries$403$384
Transport$78$65
Utilities$190$162
Internet$68$63
Left after essentials$1,939$2,060

Frequently asked questions

Is Ann Arbor cheaper than Worcester?

Yes. Ann Arbor has a cost of living index of 105 vs 108 for Worcester (100 = US average). That's about 3% cheaper.

How much will I save moving from Worcester to Ann Arbor?

On a $75K salary, moving from Worcester to Ann Arbor could save roughly $65/month on core expenses. That's ~$780/year.

What salary do I need in Ann Arbor to match my Worcester lifestyle?

To maintain the same purchasing power as $75,000 in Worcester, you'd need roughly $72,917/year in Ann Arbor. This is based on the overall COL index difference between the two cities.

Estimates based on Q1 2026 COL index and market data. Budget uses simplified federal/state tax rates at $75K. Zillow · BLS · Numbeo · For general guidance only