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

Phoenix

Arizona
109
VS

Stockton

California
115

Phoenix is 5% cheaper than Stockton.

$1,458/mo ↓ 2%
Median Rent
$1,495/mo ↑ 3%
$77,041/yr ≈ Same
Median Income
$76,851/yr ≈ Same
$381,900 ↓ 8%
Home Value
$412,900 ↑ 8%
$1,430/mo ↓ 8%
Owner Costs
$1,555/mo ↑ 9%
1,624,832
Population
320,470

Tax Comparison

2.5%
Income Tax
13.3%
5.6%
State Sales Tax
7.25%
0.62%
Property Tax
0.71%

Affordability

22.7%
rent-to-income
Affordability
23.3%
rent-to-income

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Phoenix, AZ and Stockton, CA, the overall cost of living indices are 109 and 115 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is comparable in both cities, with less than $50/month separating them.

Median household income is $190/year higher in Phoenix. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Phoenix is $381,900 compared to $412,900 in Stockton.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Phoenix vs Stockton — common questions

Is Phoenix or Stockton cheaper to live in?
Based on our cost index, Phoenix is cheaper to live in with an index of 109 compared to 115 (US average = 100).
What is the rent difference between Phoenix and Stockton?
Median rent in Phoenix is $1,458/month and in Stockton it's $1,495/month — a difference of $37/month.
Which city has higher income, Phoenix or Stockton?
Median household income is $77,041 in Phoenix and $76,851 in Stockton. Median household income is $190/year higher in Phoenix.
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 Stockton?
It depends on your priorities. Phoenix has a cost index of 109 with median rent of $1,458/mo, while Stockton has a cost index of 115 with rent of $1,495/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.
View Phoenix details → View Stockton details →

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