Cost of Living: Pittsburgh, PA vs Surprise, AZ (2026)

Pittsburgh

Pennsylvania
76
VS

Surprise

Arizona
126

Pittsburgh is 40% cheaper than Surprise.

$1,221/mo ↓ 36%
Median Rent
$1,917/mo ↑ 57%
$64,137/yr ↓ 31%
Median Income
$93,371/yr ↑ 46%
$193,200 ↓ 51%
Home Value
$396,000 ↑ 105%
$1,136/mo ↓ 28%
Owner Costs
$1,587/mo ↑ 40%
303,620
Population
149,519

Tax Comparison

3.07%
Income Tax
2.5%
6.0%
State Sales Tax
5.6%
1.49%
Property Tax
0.62%

Affordability

22.8%
rent-to-income
Affordability
24.6%
rent-to-income

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Pittsburgh, PA and Surprise, AZ, the overall cost of living indices are 76 and 126 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $696/month cheaper in Pittsburgh, saving renters about $8,352/year.

Median household income is $29,234/year higher in Surprise. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Pittsburgh is $193,200 compared to $396,000 in Surprise.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Pittsburgh vs Surprise — common questions

Is Pittsburgh or Surprise cheaper to live in?
Based on our cost index, Pittsburgh is cheaper to live in with an index of 76 compared to 126 (US average = 100).
What is the rent difference between Pittsburgh and Surprise?
Median rent in Pittsburgh is $1,221/month and in Surprise it's $1,917/month — a difference of $696/month.
Which city has higher income, Pittsburgh or Surprise?
Median household income is $64,137 in Pittsburgh and $93,371 in Surprise. Median household income is $29,234/year higher in Surprise.
How do taxes compare between Pennsylvania and Arizona?
Pennsylvania has 3.07% income tax, 6.0% sales tax, and 1.49% property tax. Arizona has 2.5% income tax, 5.6% sales tax, and 0.62% property tax.
Should I move to Pittsburgh or Surprise?
It depends on your priorities. Pittsburgh has a cost index of 76 with median rent of $1,221/mo, while Surprise has a cost index of 126 with rent of $1,917/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.
View Pittsburgh details → View Surprise details →

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