Is Detroit or Houston more affordable?
Detroit has a median rent of $800/month, while Houston is $1,250/month. Detroit is more affordable for renters.
City comparison
Detroit, MI vs Houston, TX
Side-by-side comparison of cost of living, taxes, climate, and quality of life between Detroit and Houston.
2
Detroit wins
of 5 metrics
tracked
3
Houston wins
MI
Detroit
vs
TX
Houston
Overview
672,662
Population
2,304,580
$33,381
Median Income
+56.8%$52,338✓
Cost of Living
$800✓
Median Rent / mo
+56.3%$1,250
$85,000✓
Median Home Price
+211.8%$265,000
29%
Rent-to-Income %
29%
Taxes
4.25%
State Income Tax
None✓
6.00%
Local Tax Rate
8.25%
Climate & Weather
58°F
Avg High Temp
77°F
40°F
Avg Low Temp
57°F
183 days
Sunny Days / Year
204 days✓
34"
Annual Rainfall
50"
Who should choose
Detroit, MI
Detroit is a city in Michigan with a population of 672,662.
Read full Detroit guide →Who should choose
Houston, TX
Houston is a city in Texas with a population of 2,304,580.
Read full Houston guide →Detroit vs Houston — Common Questions
Which city has lower taxes — Detroit or Houston?
Michigan has a 4.25% state income tax. Texas has no state income tax. Houston wins on state income tax.
What is the weather difference between Detroit and Houston?
Detroit gets 183 sunny days/year. Houston gets 204 sunny days/year. Avg high in Detroit: 58°F. Avg high in Houston: 77°F
Which city is better for families — Detroit or Houston?
Detroit. Houston. 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.