Quick answer
Overall prices in the Detroit, MI metro were 100.3 vs 111.9 in San Diego, CA in 2024 (US = 100), so Detroit is 10.4% less expensive than San Diego; housing rents differ by 47% (94.7 vs 179.3). A $75,000 income in Detroit buys about what $83,666 buys in San Diego, per BEA.
Data as of 2024. Source: U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis, Regional Price Parities 2024
| Price index (US = 100) | Detroit | San Diego | Detroit vs San Diego |
|---|---|---|---|
| All items | 100.3 | 111.9 | -10.4% |
| Goods | 98.8 | 108.0 | -8.5% |
| Housing (rents) | 94.7 | 179.3 | -47.2% |
| Utilities | 107.0 | 174.2 | -38.6% |
| Other services | 102.6 | 99.6 | +3.0% |
| All items, 2008 | 100.6 | 113.7 | -11.6% |
| $50,000 in Detroit equals in San Diego | $55,777 | ||
| $100,000 in Detroit equals in San Diego | $111,555 | ||
| $150,000 in Detroit equals in San Diego | $167,332 |
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Last updated 2026-10-16. Data only, not financial or tax advice.