Side-by-side cost of living comparison for 2026
20% cheaper
Detroit is 20% more affordable than Gilbert. A $75,000 salary in Gilbert is equivalent to $60,135 in Detroit.
Index values shown. National average = 100. Lower is cheaper.
To maintain the same standard of living:
See exact take-home pay: Michigan salaries · Arizona salaries
Housing is typically the biggest factor in any cost-of-living comparison. Detroit has a housing index of 60 while Gilbert sits at 128 (national average = 100). The median home in Detroit costs $65,000 compared to $470,000 in Gilbert, a difference of $405,000. Monthly rent follows a similar pattern: $1,000 in Detroit versus $1,700 in Gilbert.
Groceries and everyday expenses show a narrower gap: Detroit scores 98 while Gilbert scores 100. Both cities are close to the national average for grocery costs.
Healthcare costs in Detroit (99) are higher than Gilbert (95). Both are close to the national average.
Median household income in Detroit is $34,762 compared to $94,518 in Gilbert. When adjusted for cost of living, income goes further in Detroit.
Amazon affiliate links