Quick answer
Overall prices in the Chicago, IL metro were 103.6 vs 100.3 in Detroit, MI in 2024 (US = 100), so Chicago is 3.3% more expensive than Detroit; housing rents differ by 18% (112.0 vs 94.7). A $75,000 income in Chicago buys about what $72,613 buys in Detroit, per BEA.
Data as of 2024. Source: U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis, Regional Price Parities 2024
| Price index (US = 100) | Chicago | Detroit | Chicago vs Detroit |
|---|---|---|---|
| All items | 103.6 | 100.3 | +3.3% |
| Goods | 107.3 | 98.8 | +8.5% |
| Housing (rents) | 112.0 | 94.7 | +18.3% |
| Utilities | 83.6 | 107.0 | -21.9% |
| Other services | 100.5 | 102.6 | -2.0% |
| All items, 2008 | 105.4 | 100.6 | +4.8% |
| $50,000 in Chicago equals in Detroit | $48,409 | ||
| $100,000 in Chicago equals in Detroit | $96,817 | ||
| $150,000 in Chicago equals in Detroit | $145,226 |
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Last updated 2026-10-16. Data only, not financial or tax advice.