Phoenix, AZ vs Fairfield, CA: 109 vs 167

$1,458/mo ↓ 33%

Median Rent

$2,191/mo ↑ 50%

$77,041/yr ↓ 25%

Median Income

$102,321/yr ↑ 33%

$381,900 ↓ 36%

Home Value

$592,500 ↑ 55%

$1,430/mo ↓ 36%

Owner Costs

$2,226/mo ↑ 56%

1,624,832

Population

119,985

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Phoenix, AZ and Fairfield, CA, the overall cost of living indices are 109 and 167 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $733/month cheaper in Phoenix, saving renters about $8,796/year.

Median household income is $25,280/year higher in Fairfield. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Phoenix is $381,900 compared to $592,500 in Fairfield.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Phoenix vs Fairfield — common questions

Is Phoenix or Fairfield cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Phoenix is cheaper to live in with an index of 109 compared to 167 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Phoenix and Fairfield?

Median rent in Phoenix is $1,458/month and in Fairfield it's $2,191/month — a difference of $733/month.

Which city has higher income, Phoenix or Fairfield?

Median household income is $77,041 in Phoenix and $102,321 in Fairfield. Median household income is $25,280/year higher in Fairfield.

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 Fairfield?

It depends on your priorities. Phoenix has a cost index of 109 with median rent of $1,458/mo, while Fairfield has a cost index of 167 with rent of $2,191/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

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

Phoenix

Fairfield

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

More Comparisons