Phoenix vs Detroit: Cost of Living & Housing Comparison
Phoenix's typical home is worth $340,200, 410% higher than the typical home in Detroit at $66,700.
On median household income, Phoenix posts $72,092 while Detroit posts $37,761.
Typical rent runs $1,322 in Phoenix and $989 in Detroit.
Natural-hazard risk differs here: FEMA rates Phoenix Very High and Detroit Relatively High.
| Metric | Phoenix, AZ | Detroit, MI |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 1,609,456 | 636,787 |
| Median home value | $340,200 | $66,700 |
| Median household income | $72,092 | $37,761 |
| Median gross rent | $1,322 | $989 |
| Climate risk (FEMA) | Very High | Relatively High |
On housing costs, Detroit, MI looks more affordable than Phoenix, AZ — lower median home value and rent. This reflects housing only, not total cost of living.
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Sources: U.S. Census Bureau American Community Survey; FEMA National Risk Index
Data last updated July 2026.