Surprise, AZ vs Fairfield, CA: 126 vs 167

$1,917/mo ↓ 13%

Median Rent

$2,191/mo ↑ 14%

$93,371/yr ↓ 9%

Median Income

$102,321/yr ↑ 10%

$396,000 ↓ 33%

Home Value

$592,500 ↑ 50%

$1,587/mo ↓ 29%

Owner Costs

$2,226/mo ↑ 40%

149,519

Population

119,985

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Surprise, AZ and Fairfield, CA, the overall cost of living indices are 126 and 167 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $274/month cheaper in Surprise, saving renters about $3,288/year.

Median household income is $8,950/year higher in Fairfield. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Surprise is $396,000 compared to $592,500 in Fairfield.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Surprise vs Fairfield — common questions

Is Surprise or Fairfield cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Surprise is cheaper to live in with an index of 126 compared to 167 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Surprise and Fairfield?

Median rent in Surprise is $1,917/month and in Fairfield it's $2,191/month — a difference of $274/month.

Which city has higher income, Surprise or Fairfield?

Median household income is $93,371 in Surprise and $102,321 in Fairfield. Median household income is $8,950/year higher in Fairfield.

How do taxes compare between Arizona and California?

Arizona has 2.5% income tax, 5.6% sales tax, and 0.62% property tax. California has 13.3% income tax, 7.25% sales tax, and 0.71% property tax.

Should I move to Surprise or Fairfield?

It depends on your priorities. Surprise has a cost index of 126 with median rent of $1,917/mo, while Fairfield has a cost index of 167 with rent of $2,191/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

Cost of Living: Surprise, AZ vs Fairfield, CA (2026)

Surprise

Fairfield

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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