Surprise, AZ vs Pomona, CA: 126 vs 143

$1,917/mo ↑ 10%

Median Rent

$1,738/mo ↓ 9%

$93,371/yr ↑ 18%

Median Income

$78,869/yr ↓ 16%

$396,000 ↓ 30%

Home Value

$569,600 ↑ 44%

$1,587/mo ↓ 10%

Owner Costs

$1,758/mo ↑ 11%

149,519

Population

148,391

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Surprise, AZ and Pomona, CA, the overall cost of living indices are 126 and 143 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $179/month cheaper in Pomona, saving renters about $2,148/year.

Median household income is $14,502/year higher in Surprise. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Surprise is $396,000 compared to $569,600 in Pomona.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Surprise vs Pomona — common questions

Is Surprise or Pomona cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Surprise is cheaper to live in with an index of 126 compared to 143 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Surprise and Pomona?

Median rent in Surprise is $1,917/month and in Pomona it's $1,738/month — a difference of $179/month.

Which city has higher income, Surprise or Pomona?

Median household income is $93,371 in Surprise and $78,869 in Pomona. Median household income is $14,502/year higher in Surprise.

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 Pomona?

It depends on your priorities. Surprise has a cost index of 126 with median rent of $1,917/mo, while Pomona has a cost index of 143 with rent of $1,738/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

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

Surprise

Pomona

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

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