Austin, Texas, and Detroit, Michigan, offer distinct living experiences stemming from their unique geographical settings, economic foundations, and cultural contributions. The differentiating factors span across diverse areas, such as crime and safety, weather conditions, living costs, education, economic conditions, infrastructure, predominant industries, employers, real estate scenario, neighborhood characteristics, public transit, tax structure, cultural scenes, sports landscape, geographic specifics, and the state of healthcare.
Distance between
Austin, TX and
Detroit, MI : 1,163.5 miles
Austin's population is larger by 52%. Its population has grown by 307,615 people (46.9%) since 2000. The population of Detroit has decreased by 318,806 people (33.5%) during that time.
When it comes to crime and safety, Austin generally has a lower crime rate than Detroit. While Detroit has been historically associated with high crime rates, recent years have shown encouraging improvements with continuous investments aimed at enhancing safety. Meanwhile, Austin boasts one of the lowest crime rates among major US cities but still faces challenges, especially in specific neighborhoods. For tourists, both cities offer safe environments in most touristic areas.
City-data.com crime index counts serious crimes and violent crime more heavily. It adjusts for the number of visitors and daily workers commuting into cities. (higher means more crime, U.S. average = 301.1)
City-data.com crime index counts serious crimes and violent crime more heavily. It adjusts for the number of visitors and daily workers commuting into cities. (higher means more crime, U.S. average = 301.1)
Sex Offenders
According to our data, there are 1,411 registered sex offenders living in Austin and 3,446 registered sex offenders living in . The ratio of residents to sex offenders in Austin is 672 to 1; the ratio in Detroit is 195 to 1. The number of registered sex offenders compared to the number of residents is a lot smaller in Austin than in Detroit.
Cost of Living
Overall, the cost of living is higher in Austin than in Detroit. Austin's housing market is particularly competitive, resulting in higher rental and home prices. Detroit, on the other hand, offers a lower cost of living due to weaker demand for housing. However, it should be noted that certain upscale neighborhoods in Detroit can match Austin's living costs.
Income Tax
When it comes to income tax, Austin residents benefit from Texas not levying a state income tax, allowing for potential savings. In contrast, Detroit residents are subject to Michigan's 4.25% income tax.
Property Tax
Property taxes in Austin are notably high compared to national averages, which can be a consideration for home buyers. Detroit, conversely, has lower property taxes, although rates can vary based on location and value of the property.
Sales Tax
Texas, including Austin, does not have a state income tax, offering potential savings to residents. Detroit residents are subject to Michigan's 4.25% income tax. The sales tax in Austin is 8.25%, comparatively higher than Detroit's 6%.
Income
Type
Austin
Detroit
Estimated median household income
$79,542
$36,140
Estimated per capita income
$53,937
$22,122
Cost of living index (U.S. average is 100)
96.4
94.1
If you make $50,000 in Detroit, you will have to make $51,222 in Austin to maintain the same standard of living.
Geographical Conditions
Austin's geographical conditions are characterized by rolling hills and close proximity to several lakes and rivers, giving it a unique varied landscape. Detroit, located on the Detroit River with proximity to the Great Lakes, offers water-related recreational activities.
Education is strong in both cities, with each having prestigious universities and schools. Austin benefits from having the University of Texas, one of the largest and most distinguished universities in the country, while Detroit offers exceptional educational opportunities through the University of Michigan and Wayne State University.
Comparatively, Austin's economy is currently more robust than Detroit's, thanks primarily to its booming tech industry. Detroit, traditionally associated with manufacturing and the auto industry, has been diversifying into other sectors, including technology and healthcare. Still, Detroit's economy is in a rebuilding phase after the city's bankruptcy ordeal.
Biggest Employers
Austin's largest employers include the State of Texas, the University of Texas at Austin, and Dell. Detroit's economy heavily depends on the automotive industry with General Motors, Ford, and Fiat Chrysler being significant employers. The healthcare sector, including Henry Ford Health System and Detroit Medical Center, also provides numerous jobs.
There were 4,180 building permits issued in Austin in 2012 (2467 more than in 2011) compared to 10 building permits issued in Detroit in 2012 (8 less than in 2011).
In Austin (Travis County), 60.2% voted for Democrats and 36.2% for Republicans in 2012 Presidential Election. In Detroit (Wayne County), 73.1% voted for Democrats and 26.2% for Republicans.
Elections
Type
Democrats
Republicans
Other
Year
Austin
Detroit
Austin
Detroit
Austin
Detroit
2020
71.7%
68.6%
26.5%
30.4%
1.8%
1.0%
2016
65.8%
66.6%
27.2%
29.4%
7.0%
4.0%
2012
60.2%
73.1%
36.2%
26.2%
3.6%
0.6%
2008
63.8%
74.4%
34.4%
24.7%
1.8%
0.9%
2004
56.1%
69.7%
42.1%
29.9%
1.8%
0.4%
2000
41.7%
69.1%
47.0%
29.1%
11.3%
1.8%
1996
52.4%
69.0%
40.0%
24.0%
7.7%
7.0%
Breakdown of population affiliated with a religious congregation
Type
Adherents
Congregations
Religion
Austin
Detroit
Austin
Detroit
CATHOLIC CHURCH
17.3%
16.3%
4.5%
11.2%
SOUTHERN BAPTIST CONVENTION
8.0%
0.4%
22.8%
3.2%
EPISCOPAL CHURCH
1.4%
0.4%
2.8%
2.5%
MUSLIM ESTIMATE
1.2%
3.7%
0.7%
2.9%
EVANGELICAL LUTHERAN CHURCH IN AMERICA
1.0%
0.7%
2.5%
2.8%
LUTHERAN CHURCH
0.9%
1.2%
2.1%
3.9%
SEVENTH DAY ADVENTIST CHURCH
0.2%
0.4%
1.0%
1.4%
AMERICAN BAPTIST CHURCHES IN THE USA
0.1%
1.5%
0.1%
2.4%
Weather
Weather-wise, Austin is known for its hot, humid summers and mild winters, attracting sun-lovers and those who prefer a warmer climate all year round. Detroit, on the other hand, experiences a full range of seasons with hot summers, colorful falls, cold winters, and enjoyable springs. This variety can appeal to people who enjoy different outdoor activities throughout the year.
Weather and climate
Type
Austin
Detroit
Temperature - Average
68.5°F
50°F
Humidity - Average morning or afternoon humidity
75.2%
75.3%
Humidity - Differences between morning and afternoon humidity
40%
33%
Humidity - Maximum monthly morning or afternoon humidity
89%
86%
Humidity - Minimum monthly morning or afternoon humidity
49%
53%
Precipitation - Yearly average
33.7 in
33.6 in
Snowfall - Yearly average
1.4 in
86.5 in
Clouds - Number of days clear of clouds
19.3%
12.7%
Sunshine amount - Average
63.3%
56.8%
Sunshine amount - Differences during a year
22%
38%
Sunshine amount - Maximum monthly
72%
69%
Sunshine amount - Minimum monthly
50%
31%
Wind speed - Average
7.2 mph
10.2 mph
Average climate in Austin, Texas
Average climate in Detroit, Michigan
Air pollution
Type
AQI
CO
NO2
OZONE
PB
PM25
SO2
Year
Austin
Detroit
Austin
Detroit
Austin
Detroit
Austin
Detroit
Detroit
Austin
Detroit
Austin
Detroit
2018
76
90
N/A
0.44
4.9
12.9
26.7
25.8
N/A
N/A
8.7
10.1
0.2
1.1
2017
76
87
N/A
0.56
4.6
12.7
29.7
20.9
N/A
N/A
8.3
10.1
0.3
1.3
2016
71
86
N/A
0.47
4.2
13.2
29.5
22.0
N/A
N/A
8.2
10.9
0.2
0.8
2015
78
95
N/A
0.49
4.4
14.8
28.9
26.5
N/A
N/A
8.6
11.9
0.3
1.2
2014
74
95
N/A
0.48
5.2
14.2
28.3
24.2
N/A
N/A
8.7
12.0
0.5
1.7
2013
78
80
0.09
0.53
5.5
14.4
29.5
24.5
N/A
N/A
8.6
11.0
0.5
1.3
2012
86
99
0.13
0.49
5.5
14.6
30.1
25.7
N/A
N/A
8.6
6.6
N/A
1.7
2011
83
94
0.11
0.32
2.6
12.9
33.0
24.3
N/A
N/A
9.1
6.5
N/A
1.6
2010
77
96
0.05
0.28
3.2
11.8
29.4
24.7
0.006
N/A
8.8
12.1
N/A
1.6
2009
76
68
0.05
0.27
2.6
12.7
29.7
23.4
N/A
N/A
9.0
N/A
N/A
1.9
2008
81
67
0.12
0.27
3.2
12.8
30.7
N/A
N/A
N/A
9.7
N/A
N/A
2.0
2007
82
81
0.12
0.29
3.1
13.7
27.1
25.8
0.017
N/A
9.8
N/A
N/A
N/A
2006
89
63
0.14
0.31
3.8
14.0
31.3
19.8
0.022
N/A
10.0
N/A
0.2
3.2
2005
92
83
0.15
0.36
4.4
17.4
29.0
22.6
0.019
N/A
10.7
N/A
0.2
4.0
2004
74
70
0.16
0.43
3.3
15.0
26.8
N/A
0.014
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
3.7
2003
85
86
0.26
0.40
4.2
18.5
28.9
N/A
0.013
N/A
N/A
N/A
0.1
4.8
2002
83
88
0.33
0.36
3.9
18.3
27.2
N/A
0.019
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
4.3
2001
83
83
0.31
0.36
4.2
19.0
25.5
N/A
0.020
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
4.4
2000
86
71
0.28
0.35
4.7
18.2
27.8
N/A
0.027
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
5.2
Natural disasters
Type
Austin
Detroit
Tornado activity compared to U.S. average
137.9%
128.5%
Earthquake activity compared to U.S. average
80.4%
53.2%
Natural disasters compared to U.S. average
29%
14%
Transportation
Austin's highly developed road network makes commuting by car the most commonly used mode of transportation. At the same time, the city has been working to improve public transport options. Detroit has a more established public transit system with buses, trams, and the People Mover, although car travel still remains popular.
Transport
Type
Austin
Detroit
Amtrak stations
1
1
Amtrak stations nearby
1
3
FAA registered aircraft
911
93
FAA registered aircraft manufacturers and dealers
21
3
Means of transportation to work
Type
Austin
Detroit
Bicycle
0.8%
0.5%
Bus
1.5%
4%
Carpooled
7.9%
7.5%
Car alone
85.9%
83.4%
Motorcycle
0.3%
0%
Taxicab
0.1%
0.5%
Walked
2%
2.7%
Average travel time to work
Type
Austin
Detroit
Average
29.9 min
30.6 min
Other means
22.7 min
26 min
Public transportation
37.9 min
47.7 min
Private vehicle occupancy
Type
Austin
Detroit
Average
1.1
1.2
Drove alone
91.2%
87.1%
In 2 person carpool
6.3%
10.5%
In 3 person carpool
1.7%
1%
In 4 person carpool
0.6%
1%
In 5-6 person carpool
0.1%
0.3%
In 7+ person carpool
0.2%
0.2%
How many people usually rode to work in the car, truck or van.
Real Estate
Austin's real estate market is booming, with high demand leading to soaring property prices. Detroit's real estate market, recovering from a deeply problematic period, presents opportunities for investors and home-buyers with lower property prices, although gentrification is starting to drive these up in some areas.
Neighborhoods
Both cities offer a diverse range of neighborhoods. Austin is known for its vibrant downtown area, and family-friendly suburbs such as Circle C Ranch. Detroit offers historic neighborhoods like Indian Village, artsy areas like Midtown, and the growingly popular downtown district.
Houses and residents
Type
Austin
Detroit
Houses
469,156
322,906
Average household size (people)
2.4
2.6
Median year apartment built
1997
1953
Median year house/condo built
1988
1946
Length of stay in the house since moving in
12.1 years
16.7 years
Houses occupied
449,399 (95.8%)
251,729 (78%)
Houses occupied by owners
196,458 (43.7%)
129,084 (51.3%)
Houses occupied by renters
252,941 (56.3%)
122,645 (48.7%)
Median rent asked for vacant for-rent units
$1,286
$798.06
Median monthly housing costs
$1,521
$755
Median price asked for vacant for-sale houses and condos
$549,769
$86,452
Estimated median house or condo value
$482,900
$69,300
Median numbers of rooms
4.4
5.7
Median number of rooms in apartments
3.4
5
Median number of rooms in houses and condos
6
6.3
Median house price - detached houses
$595,996
$96,752
Median house price - in 2-unit structures
$393,984
$72,631
Median house price - in 3-to-4-unit structures
$262,826
$183,952
Median house price - in 5 or more unit structures
$576,111
$242,851
Median house price - mobile homes
$56,102
$43,864
Median house price - Townhouses or other attached units
$459,657
$128,652
Median house price - All housing units
$571,154
$101,554
Median house age
28
74
Renting percentage
54.9%
48.9%
Housing density (houses/condos per square mile)
1,865.3
2,326.9
House value disparities
28.4%
48.4%
Household income disparities
44.8%
49.3%
Median household income for houses/condes with a mortgage
$141,177
$61,259
Median household income for apartments without a mortgage
$86,430
$38,901
Housing units without a mortgage
1,799 (1.3%)
2,599 (5.6%)
Housing units with both a second mortgage and home equity loan
6,421 (4.8%)
2,270 (4.9%)
Housing units with a mortgage
132,628 (98.7%)
43,675 (94.4%)
Housing units with a home equity loan
206 (0.2%)
357 (0.8%)
Housing units with a second mortgage
8,515 (6.3%)
3,466 (7.5%)
House/condo owner moved in on average (years ago)
9
16
House/condo renter moved in on average (years ago)
1
4
Housing units lacking complete kitchen facilities
0.9%
17.1%
Housing units lacking complete plumbing facilities
0.6%
13.6%
Housing units in structures
Housing units in structures
Austin
Detroit
One, detached
43.1%
66.0%
One, attached
5.2%
6.1%
Two
2.4%
6.5%
3 or 4
4.1%
2.7%
5 to 9
7.2%
2.2%
10 to 19
11.0%
2.7%
20 to 49
8.9%
3.9%
50 or more
17.2%
9.4%
Mobile homes
1.0%
0.5%
Median real estate property taxes paid for housing units
Self-employed workers in own not incorporated business
38,777
11,725
State government workers
46,229
8,763
Unpaid family workers
102
441
Industries and Occupations
Austin is known for its thriving tech industry, home to many startups and major tech companies like Dell and Indeed. Conversely, Detroit's legacy lies in manufacturing, especially automotive, with the presence of the "Big Three"— Ford, General Motors, and Fiat Chrysler. However, both cities are diversifying with growing sectors like healthcare, education, and entertainment.
Healthcare in Austin is of high quality with various top-rated medical facilities. Detroit also offers excellent healthcare and is home to the Henry Ford Health System, one of the nation's leading health care providers.
Health (county statistics)
Type
Austin
Detroit
General health status score of residents in this county from 1 (poor) to 5 (excellent)
Austin's infrastructure is generally modern and well-maintained, with a significant transformation due to the recent tech-boom. Detroit, with its rich industrial history, boasts classic American architecture, but the city's infrastructure has faced challenges following its economic downturn. Nevertheless, revitalization efforts are underway to re-establish Detroit as an urban business and residential center.
Infrastructure
Type
Austin
Detroit
Hospitals
65
41
TV stations
20
16
Arenas or stadiums
2
4
Bank branches located here
264
98
Bank institutions located here
43
12
Main business address for public companies
44
11
Drinking water stations with no reported violations in the past
46
5
Drinking water stations with reported violations in the past
HMDA - Conventional home purchase loans - Applications denied
Year
Austin
Detroit
1999
4,733
2,901
2000
2,950
4,079
2001
2,038
3,815
2002
1,772
3,247
2003
2,213
5,511
2004
2,458
9,068
2005
3,121
13,958
2006
3,367
16,654
2007
2,560
10,742
2008
1,747
2,823
2009
1,067
484
Culture and Food
Culturally, both cities are rich and vibrant. Austin stands out for its unique "Keep Austin Weird" ethos, prominent live music scene, and eclectic dining. Detroit displays a formative American city's history and resilience, and its food mirrors its diverse resident cultures—from soul food to Middle-Eastern cuisine.
Sports Teams
Sports enthusiasts will find much to enjoy in both cities. Austin is home to the Texas Longhorns University teams, and recently welcomed Austin FC to the MSL. Detroit has a far-reaching sports legacy entwined in the fabric of the city, with established teams in all major leagues: Lions (NFL), Tigers (MLB), Pistons (NBA), and Red Wings (NHL).
Austin, TX
Detroit, MI
Austin, TX and 
Detroit, MI : 1,163.5 miles
