Phoenix, AZ vs Arvada, CO: 109 vs 152

$1,458/mo ↓ 19%

Median Rent

$1,802/mo ↑ 24%

$77,041/yr ↓ 32%

Median Income

$113,396/yr ↑ 47%

$381,900 ↓ 36%

Home Value

$600,800 ↑ 57%

$1,430/mo ↓ 27%

Owner Costs

$1,948/mo ↑ 36%

1,624,832

Population

122,835

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Phoenix, AZ and Arvada, CO, the overall cost of living indices are 109 and 152 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $344/month cheaper in Phoenix, saving renters about $4,128/year.

Median household income is $36,355/year higher in Arvada. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Phoenix is $381,900 compared to $600,800 in Arvada.

Arizona has a lower income tax rate, making Phoenix slightly more tax-friendly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Phoenix vs Arvada — common questions

Is Phoenix or Arvada cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Phoenix is cheaper to live in with an index of 109 compared to 152 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Phoenix and Arvada?

Median rent in Phoenix is $1,458/month and in Arvada it's $1,802/month — a difference of $344/month.

Which city has higher income, Phoenix or Arvada?

Median household income is $77,041 in Phoenix and $113,396 in Arvada. Median household income is $36,355/year higher in Arvada.

How do taxes compare between Arizona and Colorado?

Arizona has 2.5% income tax, 5.6% sales tax, and 0.62% property tax. Colorado has 4.4% income tax, 2.9% sales tax, and 0.51% property tax.

Should I move to Phoenix or Arvada?

It depends on your priorities. Phoenix has a cost index of 109 with median rent of $1,458/mo, while Arvada has a cost index of 152 with rent of $1,802/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

Cost of Living: Phoenix, AZ vs Arvada, CO (2026)

Phoenix

Arvada

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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