Side-by-side cost of living comparison for 2026
32% cheaper
Detroit is 32% more affordable than Portland. A $75,000 salary in Portland is equivalent to $51,346 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 · Oregon salaries
Housing is typically the biggest factor in any cost-of-living comparison. Detroit has a housing index of 60 while Portland sits at 168 (national average = 100). The median home in Detroit costs $65,000 compared to $480,000 in Portland, a difference of $415,000. Monthly rent follows a similar pattern: $1,000 in Detroit versus $1,800 in Portland.
Groceries and everyday expenses show a notable difference: Detroit scores 98 while Portland scores 105. Both cities are close to the national average for grocery costs.
Healthcare costs in Detroit (99) are lower than Portland (108).
Median household income in Detroit is $34,762 compared to $71,005 in Portland. When adjusted for cost of living, income goes further in Detroit.
Amazon affiliate links