Is Detroit or Los Angeles more affordable?
Detroit has a median rent of $800/month, while Los Angeles is $1,852/month. Detroit is more affordable for renters.
City comparison
Detroit, MI vs Los Angeles, CA
Side-by-side comparison of cost of living, taxes, climate, and quality of life between Detroit and Los Angeles.
3
Detroit wins
of 5 metrics
tracked
2
Los Angeles wins
MI
Detroit
vs
CA
Los Angeles
Overview
672,662
Population
3,898,747
$33,381
Median Income
+107.1%$69,144✓
Cost of Living
$800✓
Median Rent / mo
+131.5%$1,852
$85,000✓
Median Home Price
+782.4%$750,000
29%
Rent-to-Income %
32%
Taxes
4.25%✓
State Income Tax
9.30%
6.00%
Local Tax Rate
9.50%
Climate & Weather
58°F
Avg High Temp
75°F
40°F
Avg Low Temp
58°F
183 days
Sunny Days / Year
284 days✓
34"
Annual Rainfall
15"
Who should choose
Detroit, MI
Detroit is a city in Michigan with a population of 672,662.
Read full Detroit guide →Who should choose
Los Angeles, CA
Los Angeles is a city in California with a population of 3,898,747.
Read full Los Angeles guide →Detroit vs Los Angeles — Common Questions
Which city has lower taxes — Detroit or Los Angeles?
Michigan has a 4.25% state income tax. California has a 9.30% state income tax. Detroit wins on state income tax.
What is the weather difference between Detroit and Los Angeles?
Detroit gets 183 sunny days/year. Los Angeles gets 284 sunny days/year. Avg high in Detroit: 58°F. Avg high in Los Angeles: 75°F
Which city is better for families — Detroit or Los Angeles?
Detroit. Los Angeles. The right choice depends on your priorities — income, affordability, taxes, and climate all play a role.
More city comparisons
Data sourced from U.S. Census Bureau, Bureau of Labor Statistics, and NOAA. Green values indicate a better outcome for that metric.