Detroit, MI vs Long Beach, CA: 53 vs 169

$1,034/mo ↓ 43%

Median Rent

$1,803/mo ↑ 74%

$39,575/yr ↓ 53%

Median Income

$83,969/yr ↑ 112%

$76,800 ↓ 90%

Home Value

$762,200 ↑ 892%

$868/mo ↓ 54%

Owner Costs

$1,890/mo ↑ 118%

636,644

Population

458,491

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Detroit, MI and Long Beach, CA, the overall cost of living indices are 53 and 169 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $769/month cheaper in Detroit, saving renters about $9,228/year.

Median household income is $44,394/year higher in Long Beach. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Detroit is $76,800 compared to $762,200 in Long Beach.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Detroit vs Long Beach — common questions

Is Detroit or Long Beach cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Detroit is cheaper to live in with an index of 53 compared to 169 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Detroit and Long Beach?

Median rent in Detroit is $1,034/month and in Long Beach it's $1,803/month — a difference of $769/month.

Which city has higher income, Detroit or Long Beach?

Median household income is $39,575 in Detroit and $83,969 in Long Beach. Median household income is $44,394/year higher in Long Beach.

How do taxes compare between Michigan and California?

Michigan has 4.25% income tax, 6.0% sales tax, and 1.38% property tax. California has 13.3% income tax, 7.25% sales tax, and 0.71% property tax.

Should I move to Detroit or Long Beach?

It depends on your priorities. Detroit has a cost index of 53 with median rent of $1,034/mo, while Long Beach has a cost index of 169 with rent of $1,803/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

Cost of Living: Detroit, MI vs Long Beach, CA (2026)

Detroit

Long Beach

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

More Comparisons