New York, United States → Detroit, United States · ✈ 1h 28min · 🚗 12h 34min
417 nautical miles · Time difference: -1h behind · Direction: west
The distance from New York to Detroit is 773 km (480 miles). The fastest way to travel is by flight. A direct flight takes approximately 1h 28min.
The straight-line distance from New York, United States to Detroit, United States is approximately 773 kilometers (480 miles or 417 nautical miles). This measurement uses the Haversine formula, computing the great-circle distance — the shortest path between two points on Earth's surface.
Detroit is located west of New York. New York is in North America, in the Northeast region of United States, while Detroit is in North America, in Midwest, United States. Both cities are in North America.
| Mode | Distance | Est. Time | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| ✈️ Flight | 773 km | ~1h 28min | Best option for speed |
| 🚗 Drive | ~1,005 km | ~12h 34min | Feasible with breaks |
| 🚂 Regular Train | ~928 km | ~7h 44min | Scenic but slow |
Our recommendation: flight is typically the best way to travel from New York to Detroit. For 773 km, flying saves significant time and is usually the most practical choice.
Based on an estimated road distance of 1,005 km, fuel costs for driving from New York to Detroit are approximately $80–$151 USD (at $0.08–$0.15 per km, depending on vehicle efficiency and local fuel prices). Additional costs may include tolls, parking, and accommodation for longer trips.
New York is a major city in United States with a population of approximately 8,336,817. Located in the Northeast region, it is an important hub in North America. As one of the largest cities in United States, New York is a major international gateway with extensive air connections and multiple airports.
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Detroit is a notable city in United States with a population of approximately 639,111. Situated in the Midwest region, it serves as a key destination in North America. Detroit is a popular destination in the Midwest region of United States, known for its unique character and attractions.
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773 km is a medium-distance route, similar to traveling across a mid-sized European country. A flight covers this distance quickly, but driving or rail travel remains feasible for those who prefer ground transport. For reference, New York to Chicago is about 1,150 km.
At 773 km, the New York-Detroit route is about 1.9% of Earth's circumference. A commercial jet covers this distance in about 1h 28min.
The straight-line distance from New York to Detroit is approximately 773 kilometers (480 miles, 417 nautical miles).
A direct flight takes approximately 1h 28min, based on 800 km/h cruising speed plus 30 minutes for takeoff and landing.
Estimated driving time is approximately 12h 34min, based on 80 km/h average speed and roads being ~30% longer than straight-line distance.
Detroit is approximately -1h behind compared to New York.
The estimated road distance is approximately 1,005 km, which is about 30% longer than the 773 km straight-line distance.
📍 Data: Coordinates from OpenStreetMap contributors. Distances calculated using the Haversine formula. Travel times are estimates only. Last verified: April 7, 2026.