Cost of Living: Phoenix, AZ vs Portland, OR 2026

$1,458/mo ↓ 9%

Median Rent

$1,596/mo ↑ 9%

$77,041/yr ↓ 13%

Median Income

$88,792/yr ↑ 15%

$381,900 ↓ 32%

Home Value

$557,600 ↑ 46%

$1,430/mo ↓ 19%

Owner Costs

$1,771/mo ↑ 24%

1,624,832

Population

642,715

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Phoenix, AZ and Portland, OR, the overall cost of living indices are 109 and 138 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $138/month cheaper in Phoenix, saving renters about $1,656/year.

Median household income is $11,751/year higher in Portland. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Phoenix is $381,900 compared to $557,600 in Portland.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Phoenix vs Portland — common questions

Is Phoenix or Portland cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Phoenix is cheaper to live in with an index of 109 compared to 138 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Phoenix and Portland?

Median rent in Phoenix is $1,458/month and in Portland it's $1,596/month — a difference of $138/month.

Which city has higher income, Phoenix or Portland?

Median household income is $77,041 in Phoenix and $88,792 in Portland. Median household income is $11,751/year higher in Portland.

How do taxes compare between Arizona and Oregon?

Arizona has 2.5% income tax, 5.6% sales tax, and 0.62% property tax. Oregon has 9.9% income tax, 0% sales tax, and 0.93% property tax.

Should I move to Phoenix or Portland?

It depends on your priorities. Phoenix has a cost index of 109 with median rent of $1,458/mo, while Portland has a cost index of 138 with rent of $1,596/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

Cost of Living: Phoenix, AZ vs Portland, OR (2026)

Phoenix

Portland

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions