Montrose, MI vs Ruby, MI

There is a significant gap in the cost of living between these two cities. Montrose is 23.5% cheaper than Ruby. With a cost index of 65 vs 85, the difference would have a meaningful impact on a household's monthly budget. Someone relocating from Montrose to Ruby should plan for substantially higher expenses across most categories.

On the housing front, median rent in Montrose is $801/month compared to $1,087/month in Ruby — a 26% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: Montrose is more affordable at $109,700 median vs $211,200.

Median household income in Montrose is $44,625 compared to $66,910 in Ruby (-33.3%). While Ruby is more expensive, its higher salaries more than compensate — residents there may actually end up with more disposable income. Looking at affordability, residents of Montrose spend roughly 21.5% of their income on rent, more than the 19.5% in Ruby.