Cost of Living in Detroit

As with many other American cities, the cost of living in Detroit will vary depending on the lifestyle and budget of individuals. The Mercer Cost of Living Survey for 2018 rated Detroit as the world’s 116th most expensive city, placing it well below other large cities in the USA. 

Cost of accommodation in Detroit

The cost of accommodation in Detroit is variable. Due to the constant redevelopment of the city, there are many opportunities to buy or rent properties on the cheap, but this will often entail extensive maintenance and renovations. New arrivals looking to avoid these extra costs would do better to seek out accommodation that is slightly more expensive but will require less revamping.

That being said, housing remains relatively cheap. Rent is usually affordable, even within the upmarket suburbs near the city centre. Utilities are not usually included in the advertised monthly rental price and will need to be paid for separately. 

Cost of education in Detroit

Those who send their children to local schools will have few expenses as fees are free of charge. Attendance at private schools is not free, however, and fees can be high.  

Cost of transportation in Detroit

People in Detroit usually own a car, although motor insurance is notoriously expensive. New arrivals should also budget for gas, as Detroit is a large city and they may find themselves driving a lot.

While public transport in Detroit isn’t as extensive as the systems found in other US cities like New York or Boston, there are reasonably priced bus services such as Greyhound, Megabus, and SMART that travel through both the suburbs and city centre.

Cost of living in Detroit chart

Prices may vary depending on product and service provider. The list below shows average prices for Detroit in June 2019.