Phoenix, AZ vs Modesto, CA: 109 vs 120

$1,458/mo ↓ 9%

Median Rent

$1,609/mo ↑ 10%

$77,041/yr ↓ 1%

Median Income

$77,899/yr ↑ 1%

$381,900 ↓ 8%

Home Value

$415,600 ↑ 9%

$1,430/mo ↓ 11%

Owner Costs

$1,613/mo ↑ 13%

1,624,832

Population

218,614

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Phoenix, AZ and Modesto, CA, the overall cost of living indices are 109 and 120 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $151/month cheaper in Phoenix, saving renters about $1,812/year.

Median household income is $858/year higher in Modesto. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Phoenix is $381,900 compared to $415,600 in Modesto.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Phoenix vs Modesto — common questions

Is Phoenix or Modesto cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Phoenix is cheaper to live in with an index of 109 compared to 120 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Phoenix and Modesto?

Median rent in Phoenix is $1,458/month and in Modesto it's $1,609/month — a difference of $151/month.

Which city has higher income, Phoenix or Modesto?

Median household income is $77,041 in Phoenix and $77,899 in Modesto. Median household income is $858/year higher in Modesto.

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 Modesto?

It depends on your priorities. Phoenix has a cost index of 109 with median rent of $1,458/mo, while Modesto has a cost index of 120 with rent of $1,609/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

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

Phoenix

Modesto

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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