Cost of Living: Phoenix, AZ vs Fort Worth, TX (2026)

Phoenix

Arizona
109
VS

Fort Worth

Texas
97

Phoenix is 12% more expensive than Fort Worth.

$1,458/mo ↑ 3%
Median Rent
$1,412/mo ↓ 3%
$77,041/yr ≈ Same
Median Income
$76,602/yr ≈ Same
$381,900 ↑ 38%
Home Value
$277,300 ↓ 27%
$1,430/mo ↓ 4%
Owner Costs
$1,489/mo ↑ 4%
1,624,832
Population
941,311

Tax Comparison

2.5%
Income Tax
0%
5.6%
State Sales Tax
6.25%
0.62%
Property Tax
1.6%

Affordability

22.7%
rent-to-income
Affordability
22.1%
rent-to-income

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Phoenix, AZ and Fort Worth, TX, the overall cost of living indices are 109 and 97 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is comparable in both cities, with less than $50/month separating them.

Median household income is $439/year higher in Phoenix. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Phoenix is $381,900 compared to $277,300 in Fort Worth.

Texas has no state income tax, giving Fort Worth residents a significant tax advantage over Arizona's 2.5% rate.

Frequently Asked Questions

Phoenix vs Fort Worth — common questions

Is Phoenix or Fort Worth cheaper to live in?
Based on our cost index, Fort Worth is cheaper to live in with an index of 97 compared to 109 (US average = 100).
What is the rent difference between Phoenix and Fort Worth?
Median rent in Phoenix is $1,458/month and in Fort Worth it's $1,412/month — a difference of $46/month.
Which city has higher income, Phoenix or Fort Worth?
Median household income is $77,041 in Phoenix and $76,602 in Fort Worth. Median household income is $439/year higher in Phoenix.
How do taxes compare between Arizona and Texas?
Arizona has 2.5% income tax, 5.6% sales tax, and 0.62% property tax. Texas has 0% income tax, 6.25% sales tax, and 1.6% property tax.
Should I move to Phoenix or Fort Worth?
It depends on your priorities. Phoenix has a cost index of 109 with median rent of $1,458/mo, while Fort Worth has a cost index of 97 with rent of $1,412/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.
View Phoenix details → View Fort Worth details →

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