Cost of Living: Phoenix, AZ vs Worcester, MA (2026)

Phoenix

Arizona
109
VS

Worcester

Massachusetts
104

Phoenix is 5% more expensive than Worcester.

$1,458/mo ↑ 3%
Median Rent
$1,415/mo ↓ 3%
$77,041/yr ↑ 14%
Median Income
$67,544/yr ↓ 12%
$381,900 ↑ 12%
Home Value
$339,500 ↓ 11%
$1,430/mo ↓ 6%
Owner Costs
$1,521/mo ↑ 6%
1,624,832
Population
205,501

Tax Comparison

2.5%
Income Tax
9.0%
5.6%
State Sales Tax
6.25%
0.62%
Property Tax
1.15%

Affordability

22.7%
rent-to-income
Affordability
25.1%
rent-to-income

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Phoenix, AZ and Worcester, MA, the overall cost of living indices are 109 and 104 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is comparable in both cities, with less than $50/month separating them.

Median household income is $9,497/year higher in Phoenix. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Phoenix is $381,900 compared to $339,500 in Worcester.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Phoenix vs Worcester — common questions

Is Phoenix or Worcester cheaper to live in?
Based on our cost index, Worcester is cheaper to live in with an index of 104 compared to 109 (US average = 100).
What is the rent difference between Phoenix and Worcester?
Median rent in Phoenix is $1,458/month and in Worcester it's $1,415/month — a difference of $43/month.
Which city has higher income, Phoenix or Worcester?
Median household income is $77,041 in Phoenix and $67,544 in Worcester. Median household income is $9,497/year higher in Phoenix.
How do taxes compare between Arizona and Massachusetts?
Arizona has 2.5% income tax, 5.6% sales tax, and 0.62% property tax. Massachusetts has 9.0% income tax, 6.25% sales tax, and 1.15% property tax.
Should I move to Phoenix or Worcester?
It depends on your priorities. Phoenix has a cost index of 109 with median rent of $1,458/mo, while Worcester has a cost index of 104 with rent of $1,415/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.
View Phoenix details → View Worcester details →

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