Cost of Living in Melvindale, MI
Population 12,605 · Michigan · Data vintage 2023
(100 = US avg)
Melvindale's median household income of $41,356 is a meaningful share below the national figure, which shapes most of the downstream economic indicators — from housing affordability to the share of residents living below the poverty line (34% here). Unemployment has stayed elevated relative to the national figure — 7.0% as of the most recent ACS release — which shows up in household-income and poverty figures as well.
Melvindale is part of the immediate Dearborn metro area — close enough that regional housing and labor patterns are shaped largely by the larger market. Median home values run roughly 45% lower than Dearborn's $206,000.
Cost Overview
Scale: 100 = US national average. Green < 90, Red > 110.
About the Cost of Living in Melvindale
The median home value in Melvindale is $113,100 — 63% below the national median of $305,000. Median rent runs $1,116/month, 15% lower than the national median of $1,314/month. The median household income of $41,356/year is 45% lower than the US median of $74,580. The local unemployment rate is 7.0%, above the national average of 4.8%. Michigan's top state income tax rate is 4.3% and the combined sales tax is 6.0%. Overall, Melvindale has a cost of living index of 56 versus the US average of 100, meaning it is 44% less expensive.
🏠 Housing
HUD Fair Market Rents by Bedroom
💰 Estimated Monthly Budget
Estimates based on median data and national averages. Actual costs vary.
🛒 Food & Groceries
National BLS average prices (2023). Local prices may vary.
🚗 Transportation
Commute Mode
⚡ Utilities
📋 Taxes
💼 Income & Employment
🎓 Education
👥 Demographics
💨 Air Quality
EPA AQS 2023 — county-level monitoring data
🏫 Schools
NCES CCD 2019 — public school district data
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cost of living in Melvindale, MI?
Melvindale has a cost index of 56 (100 = national average). It is 44% below the national average.
What is average rent in Melvindale, MI?
The median gross rent in Melvindale is $1,116 per month based on 2023 Census data.
What is the average home price in Melvindale?
The median home value in Melvindale is $113,100 according to Zillow and Census data.
What is the median income in Melvindale?
The median household income in Melvindale is $41,356 per year (2023 ACS 5-year estimates).
What is the sales tax in Melvindale, MI?
The combined state and local sales tax rate in Melvindale is 6.0%. The Michigan state income tax top rate is 4.3%.
Is Melvindale, MI affordable?
Yes, Melvindale is generally considered affordable, with a cost of living index of 56 — about 44% below the US national average of 100.
Melvindale at a Glance
- Population
- 12,605
- Median Income
- $41,356
- Home Value
- $113,100
- Median Rent
- $1,116/mo
- Unemployment
- 7.0%
- Sales Tax
- 6.0%
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Michigan Rankings
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