Phoenix, AZ vs Long Beach, CA: 109 vs 169

$1,458/mo ↓ 19%

Median Rent

$1,803/mo ↑ 24%

$77,041/yr ↓ 8%

Median Income

$83,969/yr ↑ 9%

$381,900 ↓ 50%

Home Value

$762,200 ↑ 100%

$1,430/mo ↓ 24%

Owner Costs

$1,890/mo ↑ 32%

1,624,832

Population

458,491

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Phoenix, AZ and Long Beach, CA, the overall cost of living indices are 109 and 169 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $345/month cheaper in Phoenix, saving renters about $4,140/year.

Median household income is $6,928/year higher in Long Beach. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Phoenix is $381,900 compared to $762,200 in Long Beach.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Phoenix vs Long Beach — common questions

Is Phoenix or Long Beach cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Phoenix is cheaper to live in with an index of 109 compared to 169 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Phoenix and Long Beach?

Median rent in Phoenix is $1,458/month and in Long Beach it's $1,803/month — a difference of $345/month.

Which city has higher income, Phoenix or Long Beach?

Median household income is $77,041 in Phoenix and $83,969 in Long Beach. Median household income is $6,928/year higher in Long Beach.

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 Long Beach?

It depends on your priorities. Phoenix has a cost index of 109 with median rent of $1,458/mo, while Long Beach has a cost index of 169 with rent of $1,803/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

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

Phoenix

Long Beach

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

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