Detroit vs Ann Arbor: Elementary School Teacher Salary (2026)
Compare elementary school teacher salaries between Detroit, MI and Ann Arbor, MI. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Detroit, MI | Ann Arbor, MI |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $65,849▲ | $64,688 |
| Hourly Rate | $31.66▲ | $31.10 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $49,228 | $49,581▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $61,032▲ | $52,732 |
| 75th Percentile | $83,591▲ | $81,057 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $100,435▲ | $95,315 |
| Total Employed | 18,390▲ | 1,630 |
Verdict
Detroit, MI offers better overall compensation for elementary school teachers, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Ann Arbor.
The salary gap between Detroit and Ann Arbor is $1,161 (1.79%). Detroit's median is +1.94% compared to the US national median of $64,597.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Detroit spans $51,207,Ann Arbor spans $45,734. Detroit has a wider pay range, meaning more potential for high earners but also more variation.
Cost-of-Living Adjusted Comparison
After cost-of-living adjustment, Detroit ($65,653 effective) pays 2.39% more than Ann Arbor ($64,124 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Detroit if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($65,849/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($100,435)
- ✓Larger job market (18,390 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $65,653)
- ✓You prefer the Michigan area and lifestyle
Choose Ann Arbor if…
- ✓You prefer the Michigan area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, elementary school teacher salaries in Detroit grew -14.5% from 2019 to 2025, compared to -9.0% growth in Ann Arbor over the same period.
Detroit, MI
$76,240 (2019) → $65,210 (2025)
Ann Arbor, MI
$70,370 (2019) → $64,060 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Detroit, MI
Ann Arbor, MI
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays elementary school teachers more: Detroit or Ann Arbor?
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Written by Jordan Lee, M.Ed.
Career Analyst
Jordan Lee has over 10 years of experience in elementary education. They focus on curriculum development and teaching methodologies. Their experience includes working in public schools.
Methodology & Data Source
All salary figures are 2026 projections based on BLS OEWS May 2025 data. A 0.98% CAGR (derived from 6-year national BLS trends) was applied to estimate current compensation. Cost-of-living adjustments use BEA Regional Price Parity data. Actual salaries vary by employer, certifications, and experience.
Data Sources & Methodology
Source: BLS, OEWS , released .
Compiled and verified by Jordan Lee, M.Ed., a licensed elementary school teacher with 10+ years of clinical experience. · View source data at BLS.gov