Phoenix, AZ vs Fresno, CA: 109 vs 101

$1,458/mo ↑ 10%

Median Rent

$1,324/mo ↓ 9%

$77,041/yr ↑ 15%

Median Income

$66,804/yr ↓ 13%

$381,900 ↑ 10%

Home Value

$348,500 ↓ 9%

$1,430/mo ↑ 3%

Owner Costs

$1,391/mo ↓ 3%

1,624,832

Population

543,615

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Phoenix, AZ and Fresno, CA, the overall cost of living indices are 109 and 101 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $134/month cheaper in Fresno, saving renters about $1,608/year.

Median household income is $10,237/year higher in Phoenix. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Phoenix is $381,900 compared to $348,500 in Fresno.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Phoenix vs Fresno — common questions

Is Phoenix or Fresno cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Fresno is cheaper to live in with an index of 101 compared to 109 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Phoenix and Fresno?

Median rent in Phoenix is $1,458/month and in Fresno it's $1,324/month — a difference of $134/month.

Which city has higher income, Phoenix or Fresno?

Median household income is $77,041 in Phoenix and $66,804 in Fresno. Median household income is $10,237/year higher in Phoenix.

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 Fresno?

It depends on your priorities. Phoenix has a cost index of 109 with median rent of $1,458/mo, while Fresno has a cost index of 101 with rent of $1,324/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

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

Phoenix

Fresno

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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