Side-by-side cost of living comparison for 2026
44% cheaper
Detroit is 44% more affordable than San Diego. A $75,000 salary in San Diego is equivalent to $41,719 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 San Diego sits at 248 (national average = 100). The median home in Detroit costs $65,000 compared to $800,000 in San Diego, a difference of $735,000. Monthly rent follows a similar pattern: $1,000 in Detroit versus $2,500 in San Diego.
Groceries and everyday expenses show a notable difference: Detroit scores 98 while San Diego scores 107.
Healthcare costs in Detroit (99) are lower than San Diego (107). Both are close to the national average.
Median household income in Detroit is $34,762 compared to $79,646 in San Diego. When adjusted for cost of living, income goes further in Detroit.
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