Phoenix, AZ vs Vancouver, WA: 109 vs 123

$1,458/mo ↓ 11%

Median Rent

$1,632/mo ↑ 12%

$77,041/yr ↓ 1%

Median Income

$78,156/yr ↑ 1%

$381,900 ↓ 13%

Home Value

$440,300 ↑ 15%

$1,430/mo ↓ 11%

Owner Costs

$1,607/mo ↑ 12%

1,624,832

Population

192,696

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Phoenix, AZ and Vancouver, WA, the overall cost of living indices are 109 and 123 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $174/month cheaper in Phoenix, saving renters about $2,088/year.

Median household income is $1,115/year higher in Vancouver. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Phoenix is $381,900 compared to $440,300 in Vancouver.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Phoenix vs Vancouver — common questions

Is Phoenix or Vancouver cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Phoenix is cheaper to live in with an index of 109 compared to 123 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Phoenix and Vancouver?

Median rent in Phoenix is $1,458/month and in Vancouver it's $1,632/month — a difference of $174/month.

Which city has higher income, Phoenix or Vancouver?

Median household income is $77,041 in Phoenix and $78,156 in Vancouver. Median household income is $1,115/year higher in Vancouver.

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 Vancouver?

It depends on your priorities. Phoenix has a cost index of 109 with median rent of $1,458/mo, while Vancouver has a cost index of 123 with rent of $1,632/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

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

Phoenix

Vancouver

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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