Cost of Living: Phoenix, AZ vs Arlington, TX (2026)

Phoenix

Arizona
109
VS

Arlington

Texas
95

Phoenix is 15% more expensive than Arlington.

$1,458/mo ↑ 5%
Median Rent
$1,389/mo ↓ 5%
$77,041/yr ↑ 5%
Median Income
$73,519/yr ↓ 5%
$381,900 ↑ 38%
Home Value
$276,400 ↓ 28%
$1,430/mo ≈ Same
Owner Costs
$1,420/mo ≈ Same
1,624,832
Population
394,769

Tax Comparison

2.5%
Income Tax
0%
5.6%
State Sales Tax
6.25%
0.62%
Property Tax
1.6%

Affordability

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

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Phoenix, AZ and Arlington, TX, the overall cost of living indices are 109 and 95 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $69/month cheaper in Arlington, saving renters about $828/year.

Median household income is $3,522/year higher in Phoenix. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Phoenix is $381,900 compared to $276,400 in Arlington.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Phoenix vs Arlington — common questions

Is Phoenix or Arlington cheaper to live in?
Based on our cost index, Arlington is cheaper to live in with an index of 95 compared to 109 (US average = 100).
What is the rent difference between Phoenix and Arlington?
Median rent in Phoenix is $1,458/month and in Arlington it's $1,389/month — a difference of $69/month.
Which city has higher income, Phoenix or Arlington?
Median household income is $77,041 in Phoenix and $73,519 in Arlington. Median household income is $3,522/year higher in Phoenix.
How do taxes compare between Arizona and Texas?
Arizona has 2.5% income tax, 5.6% sales tax, and 0.62% property tax. Texas has 0% income tax, 6.25% sales tax, and 1.6% property tax.
Should I move to Phoenix or Arlington?
It depends on your priorities. Phoenix has a cost index of 109 with median rent of $1,458/mo, while Arlington has a cost index of 95 with rent of $1,389/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.
View Phoenix details → View Arlington details →

More Comparisons

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