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

Detroit

Michigan
53
VS

Garland

Texas
96

Detroit is 45% cheaper than Garland.

$1,034/mo ↓ 32%
Median Rent
$1,525/mo ↑ 47%
$39,575/yr ↓ 47%
Median Income
$74,717/yr ↑ 89%
$76,800 ↓ 69%
Home Value
$248,900 ↑ 224%
$868/mo ↓ 40%
Owner Costs
$1,445/mo ↑ 66%
636,644
Population
245,298

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
24.5%
rent-to-income

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Detroit, MI and Garland, TX, the overall cost of living indices are 53 and 96 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $491/month cheaper in Detroit, saving renters about $5,892/year.

Median household income is $35,142/year higher in Garland. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Detroit is $76,800 compared to $248,900 in Garland.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Detroit vs Garland — common questions

Is Detroit or Garland cheaper to live in?
Based on our cost index, Detroit is cheaper to live in with an index of 53 compared to 96 (US average = 100).
What is the rent difference between Detroit and Garland?
Median rent in Detroit is $1,034/month and in Garland it's $1,525/month — a difference of $491/month.
Which city has higher income, Detroit or Garland?
Median household income is $39,575 in Detroit and $74,717 in Garland. Median household income is $35,142/year higher in Garland.
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 Garland?
It depends on your priorities. Detroit has a cost index of 53 with median rent of $1,034/mo, while Garland has a cost index of 96 with rent of $1,525/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.
View Detroit details → View Garland details →

More Comparisons

Other cost of living comparisons for Detroit and Garland

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