Providence, RI vs Surprise, AZ: 99 vs 126

$1,333/mo ↓ 30%

Median Rent

$1,917/mo ↑ 44%

$66,772/yr ↓ 28%

Median Income

$93,371/yr ↑ 40%

$322,800 ↓ 18%

Home Value

$396,000 ↑ 23%

$1,467/mo ↓ 8%

Owner Costs

$1,587/mo ↑ 8%

190,214

Population

149,519

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Providence, RI and Surprise, AZ, the overall cost of living indices are 99 and 126 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $584/month cheaper in Providence, saving renters about $7,008/year.

Median household income is $26,599/year higher in Surprise. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Providence is $322,800 compared to $396,000 in Surprise.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Providence vs Surprise — common questions

Is Providence or Surprise cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Providence is cheaper to live in with an index of 99 compared to 126 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Providence and Surprise?

Median rent in Providence is $1,333/month and in Surprise it's $1,917/month — a difference of $584/month.

Which city has higher income, Providence or Surprise?

Median household income is $66,772 in Providence and $93,371 in Surprise. Median household income is $26,599/year higher in Surprise.

How do taxes compare between Rhode Island and Arizona?

Rhode Island has 5.99% income tax, 7.0% sales tax, and 1.53% property tax. Arizona has 2.5% income tax, 5.6% sales tax, and 0.62% property tax.

Should I move to Providence or Surprise?

It depends on your priorities. Providence has a cost index of 99 with median rent of $1,333/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.

Cost of Living: Providence, RI vs Surprise, AZ (2026)

Providence

Surprise

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

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