Phoenix, AZ vs Downey, CA: 109 vs 169

$1,458/mo ↓ 23%

Median Rent

$1,892/mo ↑ 30%

$77,041/yr ↓ 12%

Median Income

$87,400/yr ↑ 13%

$381,900 ↓ 48%

Home Value

$728,500 ↑ 91%

$1,430/mo ↓ 28%

Owner Costs

$1,997/mo ↑ 40%

1,624,832

Population

111,793

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Phoenix, AZ and Downey, CA, the overall cost of living indices are 109 and 169 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $434/month cheaper in Phoenix, saving renters about $5,208/year.

Median household income is $10,359/year higher in Downey. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Phoenix is $381,900 compared to $728,500 in Downey.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Phoenix vs Downey — common questions

Is Phoenix or Downey cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Phoenix is cheaper to live in with an index of 109 compared to 169 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Phoenix and Downey?

Median rent in Phoenix is $1,458/month and in Downey it's $1,892/month — a difference of $434/month.

Which city has higher income, Phoenix or Downey?

Median household income is $77,041 in Phoenix and $87,400 in Downey. Median household income is $10,359/year higher in Downey.

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 Downey?

It depends on your priorities. Phoenix has a cost index of 109 with median rent of $1,458/mo, while Downey has a cost index of 169 with rent of $1,892/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

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

Phoenix

Downey

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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