Phoenix, AZ vs Santa Ana, CA: 109 vs 163

$1,458/mo ↓ 26%

Median Rent

$1,975/mo ↑ 35%

$77,041/yr ↓ 13%

Median Income

$88,354/yr ↑ 15%

$381,900 ↓ 42%

Home Value

$657,800 ↑ 72%

$1,430/mo ↓ 27%

Owner Costs

$1,965/mo ↑ 37%

1,624,832

Population

311,639

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Phoenix, AZ and Santa Ana, CA, the overall cost of living indices are 109 and 163 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $517/month cheaper in Phoenix, saving renters about $6,204/year.

Median household income is $11,313/year higher in Santa Ana. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Phoenix is $381,900 compared to $657,800 in Santa Ana.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Phoenix vs Santa Ana — common questions

Is Phoenix or Santa Ana cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Phoenix is cheaper to live in with an index of 109 compared to 163 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Phoenix and Santa Ana?

Median rent in Phoenix is $1,458/month and in Santa Ana it's $1,975/month — a difference of $517/month.

Which city has higher income, Phoenix or Santa Ana?

Median household income is $77,041 in Phoenix and $88,354 in Santa Ana. Median household income is $11,313/year higher in Santa Ana.

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 Santa Ana?

It depends on your priorities. Phoenix has a cost index of 109 with median rent of $1,458/mo, while Santa Ana has a cost index of 163 with rent of $1,975/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

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

Phoenix

Santa Ana

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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