Cost of Living: Detroit, MI vs Denton, TX (2026)

Detroit

Michigan
53
VS

Denton

Texas
100

Detroit is 47% cheaper than Denton.

$1,034/mo ↓ 23%
Median Rent
$1,344/mo ↑ 30%
$39,575/yr ↓ 46%
Median Income
$73,719/yr ↑ 86%
$76,800 ↓ 76%
Home Value
$325,700 ↑ 324%
$868/mo ↓ 41%
Owner Costs
$1,461/mo ↑ 68%
636,644
Population
146,987

Tax Comparison

4.25%
Income Tax
0%
6.0%
State Sales Tax
6.25%
1.38%
Property Tax
1.6%

Affordability

31.4%
rent-to-income
Affordability
21.9%
rent-to-income

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Detroit, MI and Denton, TX, the overall cost of living indices are 53 and 100 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $310/month cheaper in Detroit, saving renters about $3,720/year.

Median household income is $34,144/year higher in Denton. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Detroit is $76,800 compared to $325,700 in Denton.

Texas has no state income tax, giving Denton residents a significant tax advantage over Michigan's 4.25% rate.

Frequently Asked Questions

Detroit vs Denton — common questions

Is Detroit or Denton cheaper to live in?
Based on our cost index, Detroit is cheaper to live in with an index of 53 compared to 100 (US average = 100).
What is the rent difference between Detroit and Denton?
Median rent in Detroit is $1,034/month and in Denton it's $1,344/month — a difference of $310/month.
Which city has higher income, Detroit or Denton?
Median household income is $39,575 in Detroit and $73,719 in Denton. Median household income is $34,144/year higher in Denton.
How do taxes compare between Michigan and Texas?
Michigan has 4.25% income tax, 6.0% sales tax, and 1.38% property tax. Texas has 0% income tax, 6.25% sales tax, and 1.6% property tax.
Should I move to Detroit or Denton?
It depends on your priorities. Detroit has a cost index of 53 with median rent of $1,034/mo, while Denton has a cost index of 100 with rent of $1,344/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.
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