A+
1%
Overall NAT. AVG.
0%
Groceries NAT. AVG.
1%
Housing NAT. AVG.
Date & Last Updated: These cost of living estimates reflect 2026 modeled data using U.S. Census housing inputs and AI-assisted city-level pricing models.
The cost of living index is based on a national average of 100. For example, if the cost of living score is 90, then the estimated cost of living is 10% lower than the national average. If the score is 110, then the estimated cost of living is 10% higher than average. The overall index is calculated using weighted estimates across major everyday expense categories, including housing (30%), groceries (16%), transportation (12%), healthcare (10%), utilities (8%), lifestyle and entertainment (8%), household expenses (8%), and education and childcare (8%). All values are AI-assisted city-level estimates designed for directional comparisons.
Index Clawson Michigan National
Cost of living9991100
Groceries10098100
Health care9597100
Housing10176100
Transportation9996100
Utilities99100100
Lifestyle & Entertainment9996100
Household Items9898100
Education & Childcare9695100
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An Overview of Cost of Living in Clawson, MI

Knowing the cost of living in Clawson allows individuals to create a realistic budget. This helps them understand how their income will cover expenses and whether they need to make financial adjustments. The cost of living in any region can fluctuate due to various factors. To assess the cost of living consistently across different areas, a national average of 100 serves as the basis for the cost of living index. The cost of living in Clawson stands at 99, marking it 1% lower than the national average.

In Clawson, daily expenses such as food, housing, lifestyle expenses, transportation and health care are in line with comparable areas and about average when compared to all cities across the nation. This ensures that the cost of living in Clawson will resemble that of an average city, contributing to a manageable cost of living.

Is Clawson Affordable?

Is Clawson affordable? This is a pivotal question, especially when mulling over a move, as affordability carries substantial weight in your decision-making process. Factors such as the cost of living index (discussed earlier), housing expenses and income levels all contribute to a location's affordability. For instance, in Clawson, the median home price is 2.2% higher than the national average and monthly rent prices are 1.3% lower than the typical rates. Additionally, the median income levels play a role in affordability, with Clawson boasting a median household income of $106,265, 30.7% higher than the national average.

What Factors can Influence the Cost of Living in Clawson?

Utilities: Similar to the prices of any goods or services, utility expenses can fluctuate widely, contingent on variables such as climate, available energy sources, geographical location and state regulations. Costs associated with electricity, water, heating, and waste disposal can differ in magnitude, depending on the specific city or state. In Clawson, the utilities index registers at 0.9% lower than the national average.

Healthcare: Healthcare costs and insurance premiums can fluctuate greatly based on the city or state. Access to healthcare facilities, out-of-pocket expenses for doctor\’s visits, dentist costs, medication costs and specialized care costs can all impact the cost of living. In Clawson, the healthcare costs are 5.3% lower than the national average.

Transportation: In cities with limited or no public transportation, residents may find it necessary to own and maintain vehicles, thereby elevating the cost of living. Monthly expenditures include fuel, insurance, routine maintenance and potential lease or financing commitments. In Clawson, the transportation index stands at 0.8% lower than the national average.

Where is the Data From?

The cost of living data for Clawson shown above is based on a U.S. average baseline score of 100, making it easier to compare how far your dollar may go from one city to another. Housing uses U.S. Census home price and rental data, while all remaining values are AI-assisted estimates informed by regional pricing, climate, transportation dynamics, and local economic factors. These scores are best used for directional comparisons between cities.

Cost Of Living Quick Facts

  • The cost of living in Clawson is 9% higher than the Michigan average
  • The cost of living in Clawson is 1% lower than the national average
  • Clawson housing is 1% higher than the national average
  • Michigan general sales tax is 18% higher than the national average
  • Michigan state income tax is 64% higher than the national average

Most Affordable Places to Live in and Around Clawson

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Compare Clawson, MI Cost of Living

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      Median Income & Debt-To-Income Ratio

      Median Income Per Year Per Month Max Budget (28% DTI) Max Budget (36% DTI)
      Owners$128,485$10,707$2,998$3,855
      Renters$62,570$5,214$1,460$1,877
      The affordability of the housing market in Clawson, MI as well as the overall cost of living can be predicted by what percent of the monthly income is spent on housing related costs. This is konwn as the debt-to-income ratio (DTI). The overall rule of thumb is that no more than 28% of your gross income should be spent on the overall costs related to housing and no more than 36% of gross income on all expenses and debts. Among Clawson homeowners, the median income is $128,485. This indicates that a monthly maximum of $2,998 should be spent by homeowners on all housing related costs. Renters have a median income of $62,570. This indicates that renters would have a maximum of $1,460 for their rent related monthly costs.

      Michigan Sales Tax

      State General Sales Tax With Max Surtax
      Michigan 6% 6%

      Michigan Income Tax

      State Income Tax (Low) Income Tax (High)
      Michigan 4.25% 4.25%

      Nearby cities with low cost of living

      City Population Cost of Living Index National Avg.
      Highland Park, MI11,0568020.3%
      Detroit, MI692,0448217.6%
      Hamtramck, MI22,1998416.2%
      Pontiac, MI61,7648416.2%
      Center Line, MI8,3988614.0%
      Clawson, MI12,368990.9%

      Cities with similar population

      City Population Cost of Living Index National Avg.
      Norton, OH12,365936.7%
      Lansing, KS12,363982.3%
      Neosho, MO12,3758415.8%
      Wellesley, ON12,358n/a 
      Babylon, NY12,37815251.8%
      Clawson, MI12,368990.9%
      Date & Last Updated: These cost of living estimates reflect 2026 modeled data using U.S. Census housing inputs and AI-assisted city-level pricing models.