Surprise, AZ vs Sugar Land, TX: 126 vs 135

$1,917/mo ↓ 1%

Median Rent

$1,939/mo ↑ 1%

$93,371/yr ↓ 32%

Median Income

$137,511/yr ↑ 47%

$396,000 ↓ 3%

Home Value

$406,600 ↑ 3%

$1,587/mo ↓ 19%

Owner Costs

$1,969/mo ↑ 24%

149,519

Population

109,735

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Surprise, AZ and Sugar Land, TX, the overall cost of living indices are 126 and 135 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is comparable in both cities, with less than $50/month separating them.

Median household income is $44,140/year higher in Sugar Land. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Surprise is $396,000 compared to $406,600 in Sugar Land.

Texas has no state income tax, giving Sugar Land residents a significant tax advantage over Arizona's 2.5% rate.

Frequently Asked Questions

Surprise vs Sugar Land — common questions

Is Surprise or Sugar Land cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Surprise is cheaper to live in with an index of 126 compared to 135 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Surprise and Sugar Land?

Median rent in Surprise is $1,917/month and in Sugar Land it's $1,939/month — a difference of $22/month.

Which city has higher income, Surprise or Sugar Land?

Median household income is $93,371 in Surprise and $137,511 in Sugar Land. Median household income is $44,140/year higher in Sugar Land.

How do taxes compare between Arizona and Texas?

Arizona has 2.5% income tax, 5.6% sales tax, and 0.62% property tax. Texas has 0% income tax, 6.25% sales tax, and 1.6% property tax.

Should I move to Surprise or Sugar Land?

It depends on your priorities. Surprise has a cost index of 126 with median rent of $1,917/mo, while Sugar Land has a cost index of 135 with rent of $1,939/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

Cost of Living: Surprise, AZ vs Sugar Land, TX (2026)

Surprise

Sugar Land

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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