Side-by-side cost of living comparison for 2026
30% cheaper
Detroit is 30% more affordable than Sacramento. A $75,000 salary in Sacramento is equivalent to $52,148 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 Sacramento sits at 163 (national average = 100). The median home in Detroit costs $65,000 compared to $450,000 in Sacramento, a difference of $385,000. Monthly rent follows a similar pattern: $1,000 in Detroit versus $1,700 in Sacramento.
Groceries and everyday expenses show a notable difference: Detroit scores 98 while Sacramento scores 104. Both cities are close to the national average for grocery costs.
Healthcare costs in Detroit (99) are lower than Sacramento (106). Both are close to the national average.
Median household income in Detroit is $34,762 compared to $64,660 in Sacramento. When adjusted for cost of living, income goes further in Detroit.
Amazon affiliate links