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Michigan is like a treasure trove of possibilities for Gen Z renters on the hunt for their dream digs. With its kaleidoscope of landscapes and lively cities, there’s something here for everyone. Whether you’re drawn to the hustle and bustle of Detroit’s streets or the cozy charm of Ann Arbor’s college vibe, young adults are flocking to these hotspots in search of the perfect pad that won’t break the bank.
So, how much do Gen Zers pay for an apartment in Michigan’s metros? Whether it’s Ann Arbor, Detroit, Grand Rapids, Lansing or Kalamazoo, we crunch the numbers in order to see what Gen Z renters are shelling out for rent by the time they hit 30.
Let’s take a closer look at what the price of adulting comes to in these five metros for Michigan‘s young crowd.
Ann Arbor
In Ann Arbor, Gen Z renters experience a dynamic blend of academic prowess and cultural activities. By age 30, these renters are expected to earn more than $571,000, demonstrating robust financial growth during their 20s.
Between the ages of 22 to 29, they allocate close to $157,000 towards rent. Despite the financial commitment, young adults in Ann Arbor enjoy plenty of opportunities to grow and enjoy life as renters here. The city’s eclectic dining options, cultural events, and thriving arts scene complement the area’s tech scene growth.
Detroit
Detroit, known for its rich history and urban revitalization, offers Gen Z renters a unique blend of affordability and opportunities. By age 30, renters here are set to accumulate over $488,300 in earnings, with rent expenditures totaling $122,000.
Here, young adults can experience a rich cultural life, from exploring art installations in the Eastern Market to enjoying live music in Midtown. At the same times, they can benefit from a relatively lower rental cost compared to other metros.
Grand Rapids
Grand Rapids, a gem on Michigan’s western edge, presents Gen Z renters with a balance of economic growth and community charm. By the time they celebrate their 30th birthday, young renters in this metro are anticipated to earn close to $525,000, allocating approximately $139,000 towards rent.
Amidst the area’s burgeoning job market and outdoor recreational opportunities, young adults in Grand Rapids can cultivate an exciting lifestyle. The local craft beer culture, festivals, and scenic parks really make a difference for Gen Zers living here.
Lansing
In Lansing, Gen Z renters embark on a financial journey shaped by affordability and accessibility. Zoomers here are expected to accumulate over $439,500 in earnings in their 20s, with rent payments nearing $105,000.
Despite its governmental prominence, Lansing offers young adults a laidback renter life, characterized by its welcoming community, diverse dining options, and proximity to outdoor recreational activities along the Grand River.
Kalamazoo
Nestled in southwestern Michigan, Kalamazoo beckons Gen Z renters with its blend of academic excellence and small-town charm. If you’re a Gen Z renter here you can expected to amass over $466,000 in earnings by the time you turn 30. At the same time, rent expenses are estimated to amount to nearly $99,000 for Zoomers in their 20s.
Young renters in Kalamazoo are drawn to the area’s active downtown and the events at Western Michigan University, as well as the affordability and sense of community that the metro offers.
From the academic ambiance of Ann Arbor to the urban resurgence of Detroit, and the community charm of Grand Rapids, Lansing, and Kalamazoo, young adults have an array of options to consider when searching for their ideal rental destination. By understanding the rent expenditure trends and lifestyle nuances of each metro, Gen Z renters can make informed decisions that align with their financial goals and personal preferences.
If you’re interested in how Gen Z-ers’ income and rent costs compare in other areas, check out our projections for Illinois, Connecticut, Colorado, New York and Florida.
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Adina Dragos is a creative writer at RentCafe, with a passion for reading, research and cats. As a fellow renter, Adina's articles cover various topics such as the state of the real estate market or how creative interior design choices improve the experience of living in a rental. She also enjoys exploring subjects like urbanization, green living and historical buildings. Adina has a BA in English and Norwegian Language and Literature.
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