Phoenix, AZ vs Jersey City, NJ: 109 vs 148

$1,458/mo ↓ 23%

Median Rent

$1,902/mo ↑ 30%

$77,041/yr ↓ 19%

Median Income

$94,813/yr ↑ 23%

$381,900 ↓ 29%

Home Value

$534,500 ↑ 40%

$1,430/mo ↓ 29%

Owner Costs

$2,006/mo ↑ 40%

1,624,832

Population

289,691

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Phoenix, AZ and Jersey City, NJ, the overall cost of living indices are 109 and 148 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $444/month cheaper in Phoenix, saving renters about $5,328/year.

Median household income is $17,772/year higher in Jersey City. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Phoenix is $381,900 compared to $534,500 in Jersey City.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Phoenix vs Jersey City — common questions

Is Phoenix or Jersey City cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Phoenix is cheaper to live in with an index of 109 compared to 148 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Phoenix and Jersey City?

Median rent in Phoenix is $1,458/month and in Jersey City it's $1,902/month — a difference of $444/month.

Which city has higher income, Phoenix or Jersey City?

Median household income is $77,041 in Phoenix and $94,813 in Jersey City. Median household income is $17,772/year higher in Jersey City.

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 Jersey City?

It depends on your priorities. Phoenix has a cost index of 109 with median rent of $1,458/mo, while Jersey City has a cost index of 148 with rent of $1,902/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

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

Phoenix

Jersey City

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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