Phoenix, AZ vs Costa Mesa, CA: 109 vs 228

$1,458/mo ↓ 39%

Median Rent

$2,395/mo ↑ 64%

$77,041/yr ↓ 30%

Median Income

$110,073/yr ↑ 43%

$381,900 ↓ 64%

Home Value

$1,054,700 ↑ 176%

$1,430/mo ↓ 42%

Owner Costs

$2,462/mo ↑ 72%

1,624,832

Population

110,538

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Phoenix, AZ and Costa Mesa, CA, the overall cost of living indices are 109 and 228 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $937/month cheaper in Phoenix, saving renters about $11,244/year.

Median household income is $33,032/year higher in Costa Mesa. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Phoenix is $381,900 compared to $1,054,700 in Costa Mesa.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Phoenix vs Costa Mesa — common questions

Is Phoenix or Costa Mesa cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Phoenix is cheaper to live in with an index of 109 compared to 228 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Phoenix and Costa Mesa?

Median rent in Phoenix is $1,458/month and in Costa Mesa it's $2,395/month — a difference of $937/month.

Which city has higher income, Phoenix or Costa Mesa?

Median household income is $77,041 in Phoenix and $110,073 in Costa Mesa. Median household income is $33,032/year higher in Costa Mesa.

How do taxes compare between Arizona and California?

Arizona has 2.5% income tax, 5.6% sales tax, and 0.62% property tax. California has 13.3% income tax, 7.25% sales tax, and 0.71% property tax.

Should I move to Phoenix or Costa Mesa?

It depends on your priorities. Phoenix has a cost index of 109 with median rent of $1,458/mo, while Costa Mesa has a cost index of 228 with rent of $2,395/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

Cost of Living: Phoenix, AZ vs Costa Mesa, CA (2026)

Phoenix

Costa Mesa

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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