Phoenix, AZ vs Honolulu, HI: 109 vs 175

$1,458/mo ↓ 18%

Median Rent

$1,783/mo ↑ 22%

$77,041/yr ↓ 10%

Median Income

$85,428/yr ↑ 11%

$381,900 ↓ 54%

Home Value

$834,100 ↑ 118%

$1,430/mo ↓ 21%

Owner Costs

$1,809/mo ↑ 27%

1,624,832

Population

346,323

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Phoenix, AZ and Honolulu, HI, the overall cost of living indices are 109 and 175 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $325/month cheaper in Phoenix, saving renters about $3,900/year.

Median household income is $8,387/year higher in Honolulu. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Phoenix is $381,900 compared to $834,100 in Honolulu.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Phoenix vs Honolulu — common questions

Is Phoenix or Honolulu cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Phoenix is cheaper to live in with an index of 109 compared to 175 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Phoenix and Honolulu?

Median rent in Phoenix is $1,458/month and in Honolulu it's $1,783/month — a difference of $325/month.

Which city has higher income, Phoenix or Honolulu?

Median household income is $77,041 in Phoenix and $85,428 in Honolulu. Median household income is $8,387/year higher in Honolulu.

How do taxes compare between Arizona and Hawaii?

Arizona has 2.5% income tax, 5.6% sales tax, and 0.62% property tax. Hawaii has 11.0% income tax, 4.0% sales tax, and 0.32% property tax.

Should I move to Phoenix or Honolulu?

It depends on your priorities. Phoenix has a cost index of 109 with median rent of $1,458/mo, while Honolulu has a cost index of 175 with rent of $1,783/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

Cost of Living: Phoenix, AZ vs Honolulu, HI (2026)

Phoenix

Honolulu

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

More Comparisons