Cost of Living: Phoenix, AZ vs Anchorage, AK (2026)

Phoenix

Arizona
109
VS

Anchorage

Alaska
113

Phoenix is 4% cheaper than Anchorage.

$1,458/mo ≈ Same
Median Rent
$1,453/mo ≈ Same
$77,041/yr ↓ 22%
Median Income
$98,152/yr ↑ 27%
$381,900 ↑ 2%
Home Value
$375,900 ↓ 2%
$1,430/mo ↓ 16%
Owner Costs
$1,698/mo ↑ 19%
1,624,832
Population
289,069

Tax Comparison

2.5%
Income Tax
0%
5.6%
State Sales Tax
0%
0.62%
Property Tax
1.04%

Affordability

22.7%
rent-to-income
Affordability
17.8%
rent-to-income

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Phoenix, AZ and Anchorage, AK, the overall cost of living indices are 109 and 113 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is comparable in both cities, with less than $50/month separating them.

Median household income is $21,111/year higher in Anchorage. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Phoenix is $381,900 compared to $375,900 in Anchorage.

Alaska has no state income tax, giving Anchorage residents a significant tax advantage over Arizona's 2.5% rate.

Frequently Asked Questions

Phoenix vs Anchorage — common questions

Is Phoenix or Anchorage cheaper to live in?
Based on our cost index, Phoenix is cheaper to live in with an index of 109 compared to 113 (US average = 100).
What is the rent difference between Phoenix and Anchorage?
Median rent in Phoenix is $1,458/month and in Anchorage it's $1,453/month — a difference of $5/month.
Which city has higher income, Phoenix or Anchorage?
Median household income is $77,041 in Phoenix and $98,152 in Anchorage. Median household income is $21,111/year higher in Anchorage.
How do taxes compare between Arizona and Alaska?
Arizona has 2.5% income tax, 5.6% sales tax, and 0.62% property tax. Alaska has 0% income tax, 0% sales tax, and 1.04% property tax.
Should I move to Phoenix or Anchorage?
It depends on your priorities. Phoenix has a cost index of 109 with median rent of $1,458/mo, while Anchorage has a cost index of 113 with rent of $1,453/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.
View Phoenix details → View Anchorage details →

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