Cost of Living: Phoenix, AZ vs Spokane, WA (2026)

Phoenix

Arizona
109
VS

Spokane

Washington
90

Phoenix is 21% more expensive than Spokane.

$1,458/mo ↑ 28%
Median Rent
$1,141/mo ↓ 22%
$77,041/yr ↑ 17%
Median Income
$65,745/yr ↓ 15%
$381,900 ↑ 17%
Home Value
$326,200 ↓ 15%
$1,430/mo ↑ 18%
Owner Costs
$1,213/mo ↓ 15%
1,624,832
Population
229,228

Tax Comparison

2.5%
Income Tax
0%
5.6%
State Sales Tax
6.5%
0.62%
Property Tax
0.92%

Affordability

22.7%
rent-to-income
Affordability
20.8%
rent-to-income

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Phoenix, AZ and Spokane, WA, the overall cost of living indices are 109 and 90 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $317/month cheaper in Spokane, saving renters about $3,804/year.

Median household income is $11,296/year higher in Phoenix. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Phoenix is $381,900 compared to $326,200 in Spokane.

Washington has no state income tax, giving Spokane residents a significant tax advantage over Arizona's 2.5% rate.

Frequently Asked Questions

Phoenix vs Spokane — common questions

Is Phoenix or Spokane cheaper to live in?
Based on our cost index, Spokane is cheaper to live in with an index of 90 compared to 109 (US average = 100).
What is the rent difference between Phoenix and Spokane?
Median rent in Phoenix is $1,458/month and in Spokane it's $1,141/month — a difference of $317/month.
Which city has higher income, Phoenix or Spokane?
Median household income is $77,041 in Phoenix and $65,745 in Spokane. Median household income is $11,296/year higher in Phoenix.
How do taxes compare between Arizona and Washington?
Arizona has 2.5% income tax, 5.6% sales tax, and 0.62% property tax. Washington has 0% income tax, 6.5% sales tax, and 0.92% property tax.
Should I move to Phoenix or Spokane?
It depends on your priorities. Phoenix has a cost index of 109 with median rent of $1,458/mo, while Spokane has a cost index of 90 with rent of $1,141/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.
View Phoenix details → View Spokane details →

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