Which place is cheaper, Tucson or Detroit?
These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations. These travel costs come from the actual spending of real travelers.
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Should you visit Detroit or Tucson?
Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?
If you're trying to decide where to visit between Detroit or Tucson, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.
Where Should I go: Detroit or Tucson?
Detroit
Detroit is the largest city in the Midwestern state of Michigan. Near Downtown, the neoclassical Detroit Institute of Arts is famed for the Detroit Industry Murals painted by Diego Rivera, and inspired by the city's ties to the auto industry, giving it the nickname "Motor City." Detroit is also the birthplace of Motown Records, whose chart-topping history is on display at their original headquarters, Hitsville U.S.A.
Tucson
Tucson, Arizona, is a vibrant city nestled in the heart of the Sonoran Desert, renowned for its dramatic mountain landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and sunny, dry climate. As a gateway to the American Southwest, Tucson blends a laid-back atmosphere with strong Mexican and Native American influences, creating a unique desert city experience. Its historic neighborhoods feature colorful adobe architecture, lively murals, and a thriving arts scene. Nature lovers are drawn to Tucson for its easy access to saguaro-studded national parks, hiking trails, and breathtaking sunsets. With a strong university presence, the city pulses with youthful energy, affordable entertainment, and a dynamic culinary scene. Budget travelers will appreciate Tucson’s range of low-cost attractions and accessible public spaces, making it an excellent base for exploring both city sights and the nearby wilderness. Whether you’re interested in history, outdoor adventures, or simply soaking up desert vibes, Tucson offers something for every traveler.
For some great organized tour ideas, see Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in United States of America, The Best Coach Bus Tours in United States of America, The Best Adventure Tours to United States of America, and The Best Train & Rail Tours in United States of America.
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Detroit Prices
USA PricesTucson Prices
USA Prices -
Average Daily Cost Per person, per dayDetroit $165Tucson $184
The average daily cost (per person) in Detroit is $165, while the average daily cost in Tucson is $184. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Detroit and Tucson in more detail.
Accommodation
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Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one personDetroit $64Tucson $93
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Accommodation Typical double-occupancy roomDetroit $128Tucson $186
Compare Hotels in Detroit and Tucson
Looking for a hotel in Detroit or Tucson? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.
Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.
Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Detroit Hotel Prices and Tucson Hotel Prices.
Local Transportation
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Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.Detroit $37Tucson $27
Hired Cars and Shuttles in Detroit
Also for Detroit, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:
- Private Transfer from Detroit City to Detroit (DTW) Airport: $155
- Private Transfer from Detroit (DTW) Airport to Detroit City: $155
- Private Departure Transfer to Detroit Airport DTW: $61
- Private Departure Transfer - to Detroit Airport (DTW) by SUV: $90
- Detroit City to Detroit Airport (DTW) - Departure Private Transfer: $92
- Detroit Airport (DTW) to Detroit City - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $183
- Detroit Airport (DTW) to Detroit City - Arrival Private Transfer: $92
- Departure Private Transfer: Detroit to Detroit Airport DTW in Luxury SUV: $142
- Departure Private Transfer: Detroit to Detroit Airport DTW in Business Car: $108
Is it cheaper to fly into Detroit or Tucson?
Prices for flights to both Tucson and Detroit change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.
Food
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Food Meals for one dayDetroit $76Tucson $63
Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Detroit
For Detroit, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:
- Secret Food Tour with Tastings: $80
- Detroit Downtown Food Tour: 6+ Iconic Tastings in Motor City: $95
- Detroit Flavors Food Tour: $150
- Delicious in Detroit Food Tour: $159
Entertainment
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Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.Detroit $21Tucson $16
Tours and Activities in Detroit
For Detroit, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:
- Ann Arbor Scavenger Hunt Interactive Walking Tour: $35
- Best Detroit Walking Tour: $105
- Best Downtown Detroit Historical Walking Tour: $100
- Chauffeured Historic Tour of Detroit with Flexibility : $65
- Detroit Drunks of Antiquity Historic Bar Tour : $65
- Detroit Food Walking Tour: $159
- Detroit Guided Pedicab Tour Explore the City in Comfort: $125
- Detroit Pistons Basketball Game Ticket at Little Caesars Arena: $23
- Detroit Private Sightseeing Tour with Daily Chauffeur: $3,000
- Detroit Red Wings Ice Hockey Game Ticket at Little Caesars Arena: $11
- Detroit's Hidden History Guided Walking Tour: $35
- Architectural Beauty and Hidden Gems Walking Tour: $120
Alcohol
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Alcohol Drinks for one dayDetroit $20Tucson $16
When comparing the travel costs between Detroit and Tucson, we can see that Tucson is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in North America, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.
If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Detroit Expensive? and Is Tucson Expensive?.
Which is Bigger, Detroit or Tucson?
Detroit has a larger population, and is about 83% larger than the population of Tucson. When comparing the sizes of Detroit and Tucson, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.
Budget Your Trip is all about finding out how much everything costs so that you can travel cheaper and longer. Created by avid travelers Laurie and Bryan, our goal is to help you plan your next trip on the right budget. With average daily travel costs that are calculated from the budgets of real travelers, plus an analysis of hotel and tour prices, you can find out how much money you need to plan your next adventure. We also have plenty of travel advice, accommodation reviews, and activity suggestions.