Is Austin or Detroit more affordable?
Austin has a median rent of $1,415/month, while Detroit is $800/month. Detroit is more affordable for renters.
City comparison
Austin, TX vs Detroit, MI
Side-by-side comparison of cost of living, taxes, climate, and quality of life between Austin and Detroit.
2
Austin wins
of 5 metrics
tracked
3
Detroit wins
TX
Austin
vs
MI
Detroit
Overview
944,658
Population
672,662
$78,965✓
Median Income
-57.7%$33,381
Cost of Living
$1,415
Median Rent / mo
-43.5%$800✓
$381,400
Median Home Price
-77.7%$85,000✓
22%
Rent-to-Income %
29%
Taxes
None✓
State Income Tax
4.25%
0.00%
Local Tax Rate
6.00%
Climate & Weather
71.28°F
Avg High Temp
58°F
68.16°F
Avg Low Temp
40°F
N/A
Sunny Days / Year
183 days✓
N/A
Annual Rainfall
34"
Who should choose
Austin, TX
Austin is a city in Texas with a population of 944,658.
Read full Austin guide →Who should choose
Detroit, MI
Detroit is a city in Michigan with a population of 672,662.
Read full Detroit guide →Austin vs Detroit — Common Questions
Which city has lower taxes — Austin or Detroit?
Texas has no state income tax. Michigan has a 4.25% state income tax. Austin wins on state income tax.
What is the weather difference between Austin and Detroit?
Detroit gets 183 sunny days/year. Avg high in Austin: 71.28°F. Avg high in Detroit: 58°F
Which city is better for families — Austin or Detroit?
Austin. Detroit. The right choice depends on your priorities — income, affordability, taxes, and climate all play a role.
More city comparisons
Data sourced from U.S. Census Bureau, Bureau of Labor Statistics, and NOAA. Green values indicate a better outcome for that metric.