Phoenix, AZ vs Meridian, ID: 109 vs 131

$1,458/mo ↓ 15%

Median Rent

$1,714/mo ↑ 18%

$77,041/yr ↓ 22%

Median Income

$98,686/yr ↑ 28%

$381,900 ↓ 21%

Home Value

$485,000 ↑ 27%

$1,430/mo ↓ 11%

Owner Costs

$1,607/mo ↑ 12%

1,624,832

Population

124,865

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Phoenix, AZ and Meridian, ID, the overall cost of living indices are 109 and 131 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $256/month cheaper in Phoenix, saving renters about $3,072/year.

Median household income is $21,645/year higher in Meridian. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Phoenix is $381,900 compared to $485,000 in Meridian.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Phoenix vs Meridian — common questions

Is Phoenix or Meridian cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Phoenix is cheaper to live in with an index of 109 compared to 131 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Phoenix and Meridian?

Median rent in Phoenix is $1,458/month and in Meridian it's $1,714/month — a difference of $256/month.

Which city has higher income, Phoenix or Meridian?

Median household income is $77,041 in Phoenix and $98,686 in Meridian. Median household income is $21,645/year higher in Meridian.

How do taxes compare between Arizona and Idaho?

Arizona has 2.5% income tax, 5.6% sales tax, and 0.62% property tax. Idaho has 5.8% income tax, 6.0% sales tax, and 0.63% property tax.

Should I move to Phoenix or Meridian?

It depends on your priorities. Phoenix has a cost index of 109 with median rent of $1,458/mo, while Meridian has a cost index of 131 with rent of $1,714/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

Cost of Living: Phoenix, AZ vs Meridian, ID (2026)

Phoenix

Meridian

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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