Cost of Living: Detroit, MI vs Spokane, WA (2026)

Detroit

Michigan
53
VS

Spokane

Washington
90

Detroit is 41% cheaper than Spokane.

$1,034/mo ↓ 9%
Median Rent
$1,141/mo ↑ 10%
$39,575/yr ↓ 40%
Median Income
$65,745/yr ↑ 66%
$76,800 ↓ 76%
Home Value
$326,200 ↑ 325%
$868/mo ↓ 28%
Owner Costs
$1,213/mo ↑ 40%
636,644
Population
229,228

Tax Comparison

4.25%
Income Tax
0%
6.0%
State Sales Tax
6.5%
1.38%
Property Tax
0.92%

Affordability

31.4%
rent-to-income
Affordability
20.8%
rent-to-income

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Detroit, MI and Spokane, WA, the overall cost of living indices are 53 and 90 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $107/month cheaper in Detroit, saving renters about $1,284/year.

Median household income is $26,170/year higher in Spokane. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Detroit is $76,800 compared to $326,200 in Spokane.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Detroit vs Spokane — common questions

Is Detroit or Spokane cheaper to live in?
Based on our cost index, Detroit is cheaper to live in with an index of 53 compared to 90 (US average = 100).
What is the rent difference between Detroit and Spokane?
Median rent in Detroit is $1,034/month and in Spokane it's $1,141/month — a difference of $107/month.
Which city has higher income, Detroit or Spokane?
Median household income is $39,575 in Detroit and $65,745 in Spokane. Median household income is $26,170/year higher in Spokane.
How do taxes compare between Michigan and Washington?
Michigan has 4.25% income tax, 6.0% sales tax, and 1.38% property tax. Washington has 0% income tax, 6.5% sales tax, and 0.92% property tax.
Should I move to Detroit or Spokane?
It depends on your priorities. Detroit has a cost index of 53 with median rent of $1,034/mo, while Spokane has a cost index of 90 with rent of $1,141/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.
View Detroit details → View Spokane details →

More Comparisons

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