Phoenix, AZ vs Tacoma, WA: 109 vs 126

$1,458/mo ↓ 9%

Median Rent

$1,597/mo ↑ 10%

$77,041/yr ↓ 8%

Median Income

$83,857/yr ↑ 9%

$381,900 ↓ 16%

Home Value

$454,600 ↑ 19%

$1,430/mo ↓ 18%

Owner Costs

$1,747/mo ↑ 22%

1,624,832

Population

220,482

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Phoenix, AZ and Tacoma, WA, the overall cost of living indices are 109 and 126 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $139/month cheaper in Phoenix, saving renters about $1,668/year.

Median household income is $6,816/year higher in Tacoma. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Phoenix is $381,900 compared to $454,600 in Tacoma.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Phoenix vs Tacoma — common questions

Is Phoenix or Tacoma cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Phoenix is cheaper to live in with an index of 109 compared to 126 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Phoenix and Tacoma?

Median rent in Phoenix is $1,458/month and in Tacoma it's $1,597/month — a difference of $139/month.

Which city has higher income, Phoenix or Tacoma?

Median household income is $77,041 in Phoenix and $83,857 in Tacoma. Median household income is $6,816/year higher in Tacoma.

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 Tacoma?

It depends on your priorities. Phoenix has a cost index of 109 with median rent of $1,458/mo, while Tacoma has a cost index of 126 with rent of $1,597/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

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

Phoenix

Tacoma

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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