Side-by-side cost of living comparison for 2026
17% cheaper
Detroit is 17% more affordable than Springfield. A $75,000 salary in Springfield is equivalent to $62,383 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 · Massachusetts salaries
Housing is typically the biggest factor in any cost-of-living comparison. Detroit has a housing index of 60 while Springfield sits at 106 (national average = 100). The median home in Detroit costs $65,000 compared to $230,000 in Springfield, a difference of $165,000. Monthly rent follows a similar pattern: $1,000 in Detroit versus $1,200 in Springfield.
Groceries and everyday expenses show a notable difference: Detroit scores 98 while Springfield scores 104. Both cities are close to the national average for grocery costs.
Healthcare costs in Detroit (99) are lower than Springfield (114).
Median household income in Detroit is $34,762 compared to $41,612 in Springfield. When adjusted for cost of living, income goes further in Detroit.
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