Is Detroit or Seattle more affordable?
Detroit has a median rent of $800/month, while Seattle is $1,801/month. Detroit is more affordable for renters.
City comparison
Detroit, MI vs Seattle, WA
Side-by-side comparison of cost of living, taxes, climate, and quality of life between Detroit and Seattle.
3
Detroit wins
of 5 metrics
tracked
2
Seattle wins
MI
Detroit
vs
WA
Seattle
Overview
672,662
Population
726,054
$33,381
Median Income
+215.7%$105,391✓
Cost of Living
$800✓
Median Rent / mo
+125.1%$1,801
$85,000✓
Median Home Price
+802.9%$767,500
29%
Rent-to-Income %
21%
Taxes
4.25%
State Income Tax
None✓
6.00%
Local Tax Rate
0.00%
Climate & Weather
58°F
Avg High Temp
49.82°F
40°F
Avg Low Temp
46.72°F
183 days✓
Sunny Days / Year
N/A
34"
Annual Rainfall
N/A
Who should choose
Detroit, MI
Detroit is a city in Michigan with a population of 672,662.
Read full Detroit guide →Who should choose
Seattle, WA
Seattle is a city in Washington with a population of 726,054.
Read full Seattle guide →Detroit vs Seattle — Common Questions
Which city has lower taxes — Detroit or Seattle?
Michigan has a 4.25% state income tax. Washington has no state income tax. Seattle wins on state income tax.
What is the weather difference between Detroit and Seattle?
Detroit gets 183 sunny days/year. Avg high in Detroit: 58°F. Avg high in Seattle: 49.82°F
Which city is better for families — Detroit or Seattle?
Detroit. Seattle. 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.