Detroit vs Lansing: Actuary Salary (2026)
Compare actuary salaries between Detroit, MI and Lansing, MI. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Detroit, MI | Lansing, MI |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $109,020▲ | $83,499 |
| Hourly Rate | $52.42▲ | $40.14 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $69,743▲ | $67,328 |
| 25th Percentile | $84,634▲ | $67,328 |
| 75th Percentile | $139,475▲ | $107,442 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $175,997▲ | $165,904 |
| Total Employed | 240▲ | 180 |
Verdict
Detroit, MI offers better overall compensation for actuaries, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Lansing.
The salary gap between Detroit and Lansing is $25,521 (30.56%). Detroit's median is -18.74% compared to the US national median of $134,160.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Detroit spans $106,254,Lansing spans $98,576. 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 ($108,696 effective) pays 23.66% more than Lansing ($87,902 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 ($109,020/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($175,997)
- ✓Larger job market (240 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $108,696)
- ✓You prefer the Michigan area and lifestyle
Choose Lansing if…
- ✓You prefer the Michigan area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, actuary salaries in Detroit grew 14.8% from 2019 to 2025, compared to 15.8% growth in Lansing over the same period.
Detroit, MI
$92,040 (2019) → $105,640 (2025)
Lansing, MI
$69,900 (2020) → $80,910 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Detroit, MI
Lansing, MI
Frequently Asked Questions
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Written by Maria Chen, FSA, MAAA
Career Analyst
Maria has 10 years of experience in life insurance. She specializes in risk assessment and pricing strategies.
Methodology & Data Source
All salary figures are 2026 projections based on BLS OEWS May 2025 data. A 3.20% 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 Maria Chen, FSA, MAAA, a licensed actuary with 10+ years of clinical experience. · View source data at BLS.gov