Phoenix, AZ vs Providence, RI: 109 vs 99

$1,458/mo ↑ 9%

Median Rent

$1,333/mo ↓ 9%

$77,041/yr ↑ 15%

Median Income

$66,772/yr ↓ 13%

$381,900 ↑ 18%

Home Value

$322,800 ↓ 15%

$1,430/mo ↓ 3%

Owner Costs

$1,467/mo ↑ 3%

1,624,832

Population

190,214

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Phoenix, AZ and Providence, RI, the overall cost of living indices are 109 and 99 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $125/month cheaper in Providence, saving renters about $1,500/year.

Median household income is $10,269/year higher in Phoenix. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Phoenix is $381,900 compared to $322,800 in Providence.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Phoenix vs Providence — common questions

Is Phoenix or Providence cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Providence is cheaper to live in with an index of 99 compared to 109 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Phoenix and Providence?

Median rent in Phoenix is $1,458/month and in Providence it's $1,333/month — a difference of $125/month.

Which city has higher income, Phoenix or Providence?

Median household income is $77,041 in Phoenix and $66,772 in Providence. Median household income is $10,269/year higher in Phoenix.

How do taxes compare between Arizona and Rhode Island?

Arizona has 2.5% income tax, 5.6% sales tax, and 0.62% property tax. Rhode Island has 5.99% income tax, 7.0% sales tax, and 1.53% property tax.

Should I move to Phoenix or Providence?

It depends on your priorities. Phoenix has a cost index of 109 with median rent of $1,458/mo, while Providence has a cost index of 99 with rent of $1,333/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

Cost of Living: Phoenix, AZ vs Providence, RI (2026)

Phoenix

Providence

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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