Quick answer
Overall prices in the Philadelphia, PA metro were 102.6 vs 100.3 in Detroit, MI in 2024 (US = 100), so Philadelphia is 2.2% more expensive than Detroit; housing rents differ by 19% (113.1 vs 94.7). A $75,000 income in Philadelphia buys about what $73,350 buys in Detroit, per BEA.
Data as of 2024. Source: U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis, Regional Price Parities 2024
| Price index (US = 100) | Philadelphia | Detroit | Philadelphia vs Detroit |
|---|---|---|---|
| All items | 102.6 | 100.3 | +2.2% |
| Goods | 96.8 | 98.8 | -2.0% |
| Housing (rents) | 113.1 | 94.7 | +19.5% |
| Utilities | 114.4 | 107.0 | +6.9% |
| Other services | 103.1 | 102.6 | +0.4% |
| All items, 2008 | 106.4 | 100.6 | +5.8% |
| $50,000 in Philadelphia equals in Detroit | $48,900 | ||
| $100,000 in Philadelphia equals in Detroit | $97,800 | ||
| $150,000 in Philadelphia equals in Detroit | $146,700 |
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Last updated 2026-10-16. Data only, not financial or tax advice.