Cost of Living: Phoenix, AZ vs Elizabeth, NJ (2026)

Phoenix

Arizona
109
VS

Elizabeth

New Jersey
112

Phoenix is 3% cheaper than Elizabeth.

$1,458/mo ≈ Same
Median Rent
$1,463/mo ≈ Same
$77,041/yr ↑ 21%
Median Income
$63,874/yr ↓ 17%
$381,900 ↓ 3%
Home Value
$393,500 ↑ 3%
$1,430/mo ↓ 7%
Owner Costs
$1,543/mo ↑ 8%
1,624,832
Population
135,887

Tax Comparison

2.5%
Income Tax
10.75%
5.6%
State Sales Tax
6.625%
0.62%
Property Tax
2.23%

Affordability

22.7%
rent-to-income
Affordability
27.5%
rent-to-income

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Phoenix, AZ and Elizabeth, NJ, the overall cost of living indices are 109 and 112 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is comparable in both cities, with less than $50/month separating them.

Median household income is $13,167/year higher in Phoenix. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Phoenix is $381,900 compared to $393,500 in Elizabeth.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Phoenix vs Elizabeth — common questions

Is Phoenix or Elizabeth cheaper to live in?
Based on our cost index, Phoenix is cheaper to live in with an index of 109 compared to 112 (US average = 100).
What is the rent difference between Phoenix and Elizabeth?
Median rent in Phoenix is $1,458/month and in Elizabeth it's $1,463/month — a difference of $5/month.
Which city has higher income, Phoenix or Elizabeth?
Median household income is $77,041 in Phoenix and $63,874 in Elizabeth. Median household income is $13,167/year higher in Phoenix.
How do taxes compare between Arizona and New Jersey?
Arizona has 2.5% income tax, 5.6% sales tax, and 0.62% property tax. New Jersey has 10.75% income tax, 6.625% sales tax, and 2.23% property tax.
Should I move to Phoenix or Elizabeth?
It depends on your priorities. Phoenix has a cost index of 109 with median rent of $1,458/mo, while Elizabeth has a cost index of 112 with rent of $1,463/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.
View Phoenix details → View Elizabeth details →

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