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

Phoenix

Arizona
109
VS

Paterson

New Jersey
106

Phoenix is 3% more expensive than Paterson.

$1,458/mo ≈ Same
Median Rent
$1,457/mo ≈ Same
$77,041/yr ↑ 43%
Median Income
$53,766/yr ↓ 30%
$381,900 ↑ 14%
Home Value
$335,400 ↓ 12%
$1,430/mo ↓ 8%
Owner Costs
$1,553/mo ↑ 9%
1,624,832
Population
157,660

Tax Comparison

2.5%
Income Tax
10.75%
5.6%
State Sales Tax
6.625%
0.62%
Property Tax
2.23%

Affordability

22.7%
rent-to-income
Affordability
32.5%
rent-to-income

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Phoenix, AZ and Paterson, NJ, the overall cost of living indices are 109 and 106 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is comparable in both cities, with less than $50/month separating them.

Median household income is $23,275/year higher in Phoenix. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Phoenix is $381,900 compared to $335,400 in Paterson.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Phoenix vs Paterson — common questions

Is Phoenix or Paterson cheaper to live in?
Based on our cost index, Paterson is cheaper to live in with an index of 106 compared to 109 (US average = 100).
What is the rent difference between Phoenix and Paterson?
Median rent in Phoenix is $1,458/month and in Paterson it's $1,457/month — a difference of $1/month.
Which city has higher income, Phoenix or Paterson?
Median household income is $77,041 in Phoenix and $53,766 in Paterson. Median household income is $23,275/year higher in Phoenix.
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 Paterson?
It depends on your priorities. Phoenix has a cost index of 109 with median rent of $1,458/mo, while Paterson has a cost index of 106 with rent of $1,457/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.
View Phoenix details → View Paterson details →

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