Detroit, MI vs Elizabeth, NJ: 53 vs 112

$1,034/mo ↓ 29%

Median Rent

$1,463/mo ↑ 41%

$39,575/yr ↓ 38%

Median Income

$63,874/yr ↑ 61%

$76,800 ↓ 80%

Home Value

$393,500 ↑ 412%

$868/mo ↓ 44%

Owner Costs

$1,543/mo ↑ 78%

636,644

Population

135,887

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Detroit, MI and Elizabeth, NJ, the overall cost of living indices are 53 and 112 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $429/month cheaper in Detroit, saving renters about $5,148/year.

Median household income is $24,299/year higher in Elizabeth. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Detroit is $76,800 compared to $393,500 in Elizabeth.

Michigan has a lower income tax rate, making Detroit slightly more tax-friendly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Detroit vs Elizabeth — common questions

Is Detroit or Elizabeth cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Detroit is cheaper to live in with an index of 53 compared to 112 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Detroit and Elizabeth?

Median rent in Detroit is $1,034/month and in Elizabeth it's $1,463/month — a difference of $429/month.

Which city has higher income, Detroit or Elizabeth?

Median household income is $39,575 in Detroit and $63,874 in Elizabeth. Median household income is $24,299/year higher in Elizabeth.

How do taxes compare between Michigan and New Jersey?

Michigan has 4.25% income tax, 6.0% sales tax, and 1.38% property tax. New Jersey has 10.75% income tax, 6.625% sales tax, and 2.23% property tax.

Should I move to Detroit or Elizabeth?

It depends on your priorities. Detroit has a cost index of 53 with median rent of $1,034/mo, while Elizabeth has a cost index of 112 with rent of $1,463/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

Cost of Living: Detroit, MI vs Elizabeth, NJ (2026)

Detroit

Elizabeth

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

More Comparisons