Side-by-side cost of living comparison for 2026
43% cheaper
Detroit is 43% more affordable than Long Beach. A $75,000 salary in Long Beach is equivalent to $43,065 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 · California salaries
Housing is typically the biggest factor in any cost-of-living comparison. Detroit has a housing index of 60 while Long Beach sits at 236 (national average = 100). The median home in Detroit costs $65,000 compared to $700,000 in Long Beach, a difference of $635,000. Monthly rent follows a similar pattern: $1,000 in Detroit versus $2,200 in Long Beach.
Groceries and everyday expenses show a notable difference: Detroit scores 98 while Long Beach scores 106.
Healthcare costs in Detroit (99) are lower than Long Beach (103). Both are close to the national average.
Median household income in Detroit is $34,762 compared to $60,567 in Long Beach. When adjusted for cost of living, income goes further in Detroit.
Amazon affiliate links