Alma, MI vs Clare, MI

Alma, MI and Clare, MI have a very similar cost of living, with only a 2.1% difference in their overall index. Alma scores 66 while Clare scores 67 on the cost of living index, where 100 represents the national average. The day-to-day expenses for residents in both cities are comparable, though differences emerge when looking at specific categories.

On the housing front, median rent in Alma is $791/month compared to $792/month in Clare — a 0% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: Alma is more affordable at $108,100 median vs $124,800.

Median household income in Alma is $50,506 compared to $43,105 in Clare (+17.2%). Alma offers a double advantage: higher earnings combined with a lower cost of living, giving residents significantly more purchasing power. Looking at affordability, residents of Alma spend roughly 18.8% of their income on rent, less than the 22% in Clare.