Phoenix, AZ vs Lakewood, CO: 109 vs 141

$1,458/mo ↓ 16%

Median Rent

$1,746/mo ↑ 20%

$77,041/yr ↓ 10%

Median Income

$85,789/yr ↑ 11%

$381,900 ↓ 30%

Home Value

$548,200 ↑ 44%

$1,430/mo ↓ 17%

Owner Costs

$1,729/mo ↑ 21%

1,624,832

Population

156,309

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Phoenix, AZ and Lakewood, CO, the overall cost of living indices are 109 and 141 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $288/month cheaper in Phoenix, saving renters about $3,456/year.

Median household income is $8,748/year higher in Lakewood. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Phoenix is $381,900 compared to $548,200 in Lakewood.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Phoenix vs Lakewood — common questions

Is Phoenix or Lakewood cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Phoenix is cheaper to live in with an index of 109 compared to 141 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Phoenix and Lakewood?

Median rent in Phoenix is $1,458/month and in Lakewood it's $1,746/month — a difference of $288/month.

Which city has higher income, Phoenix or Lakewood?

Median household income is $77,041 in Phoenix and $85,789 in Lakewood. Median household income is $8,748/year higher in Lakewood.

How do taxes compare between Arizona and Colorado?

Arizona has 2.5% income tax, 5.6% sales tax, and 0.62% property tax. Colorado has 4.4% income tax, 2.9% sales tax, and 0.51% property tax.

Should I move to Phoenix or Lakewood?

It depends on your priorities. Phoenix has a cost index of 109 with median rent of $1,458/mo, while Lakewood has a cost index of 141 with rent of $1,746/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

Cost of Living: Phoenix, AZ vs Lakewood, CO (2026)

Phoenix

Lakewood

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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