Phoenix, AZ vs Atlanta, GA: 109 vs 122

$1,458/mo ↓ 10%

Median Rent

$1,617/mo ↑ 11%

$77,041/yr ↓ 6%

Median Income

$81,938/yr ↑ 6%

$381,900 ↓ 9%

Home Value

$420,600 ↑ 10%

$1,430/mo ↓ 16%

Owner Costs

$1,695/mo ↑ 19%

1,624,832

Population

499,287

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Phoenix, AZ and Atlanta, GA, the overall cost of living indices are 109 and 122 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $159/month cheaper in Phoenix, saving renters about $1,908/year.

Median household income is $4,897/year higher in Atlanta. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Phoenix is $381,900 compared to $420,600 in Atlanta.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Phoenix vs Atlanta — common questions

Is Phoenix or Atlanta cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Phoenix is cheaper to live in with an index of 109 compared to 122 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Phoenix and Atlanta?

Median rent in Phoenix is $1,458/month and in Atlanta it's $1,617/month — a difference of $159/month.

Which city has higher income, Phoenix or Atlanta?

Median household income is $77,041 in Phoenix and $81,938 in Atlanta. Median household income is $4,897/year higher in Atlanta.

How do taxes compare between Arizona and Georgia?

Arizona has 2.5% income tax, 5.6% sales tax, and 0.62% property tax. Georgia has 5.49% income tax, 4.0% sales tax, and 0.92% property tax.

Should I move to Phoenix or Atlanta?

It depends on your priorities. Phoenix has a cost index of 109 with median rent of $1,458/mo, while Atlanta has a cost index of 122 with rent of $1,617/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

Cost of Living: Phoenix, AZ vs Atlanta, GA (2026)

Phoenix

Atlanta

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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