salaryDetroit is 5% cheaperBased on official 2024 price levels from the U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis.
I need in Portland to live the same way.
🏠 Rent per month
$1,347
$1,874
🛏️ 2-bedroom rent
$1,153
$1,915
💵 Families earn per year
$43,073
$98,056
🔑 Buying a house
$83,900
$581,500
📊 Overall prices (U.S. = 100)
100.3
105.4
🏛️ Property tax per year
$1,402
$5,743
⚡ Electric bill per month
$196
$106
👥 People living there
638,530
641,165
Commute to work
24.8 min
24.1 min
College degree
18.1%
53.8%
Own their home
50.3%
52%
Below poverty line
32.7%
12.7%
Unemployment
14%
5.8%
Bottom line
- Pick Detroit for lower rent, cheaper 2-bedroom apartments, cheaper homes.
- Pick Portland for higher incomes, shorter commutes, a more educated workforce and 2 more.
Pay for the same job
| Job | Detroit | Portland | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Server (Waiter/Waitress) | $37,490 | $54,780 | +46% in Portland |
| Dental Hygienist | $84,480 | $123,100 | +46% in Portland |
| Medical Assistant | $39,410 | $56,240 | +43% in Portland |
| Firefighter | $62,730 | $85,170 | +36% in Portland |
| Registered Nurse | $97,280 | $130,310 | +34% in Portland |
| Electrician | $81,990 | $105,090 | +28% in Portland |
| Elementary School Teacher | $65,210 | $82,330 | +26% in Portland |
| Nursing Assistant | $39,900 | $50,350 | +26% in Portland |
Frequently asked questions
Is Detroit or Portland cheaper to live in?
Detroit is about 5% cheaper overall. Rent is $1,347 a month there versus $1,874 in Portland.
What salary do I need in Portland to match $60,000 in Detroit?
About $63,065 a year gives the same standard of living in Portland.
Where do people earn more, Detroit or Portland?
The typical household earns $43,073 in Detroit and $98,056 in Portland, 56% more in Portland.