Raleigh vs Detroit

Detroit is cheaper to live in overall. Raleigh has a cost of living index of 105 while Detroit has an index of 88, where 100 represents the US national average. Detroit is 16% cheaper than Raleigh overall.

The median 1-bedroom rent in Raleigh is $1,600 per month compared to $1,100 in Detroit. The median home price in Raleigh is $390,000 versus $90,000 in Detroit. Housing is typically the largest factor in cost of living differences between cities.

Raleigh has a cost of living index of 105 and Detroit has an index of 88, both measured against a US national average of 100. An index above 100 means more expensive than the national average — below 100 means cheaper.

To maintain the same purchasing power as a salary in Raleigh, multiply by 0.84. For example a $75,000 salary in Raleigh is equivalent to approximately $62,857 in Detroit.

Raleigh has a median household income of $72,428 per year versus $34,762 in Detroit. Higher incomes must be weighed against cost of living. Use the Dayblip salary tools to see specific job salaries in both cities.

Whether moving from Raleigh to Detroit is worthwhile depends on your salary, lifestyle, and priorities. Detroit is 16% cheaper overall — with the biggest difference in housing. Use the Dayblip cost of living calculator to enter your specific salary and see the exact dollar impact.