Surprise, AZ vs Vallejo, CA: 126 vs 155

$1,917/mo ↓ 5%

Median Rent

$2,013/mo ↑ 5%

$93,371/yr ↑ 4%

Median Income

$89,496/yr ↓ 4%

$396,000 ↓ 29%

Home Value

$557,500 ↑ 41%

$1,587/mo ↓ 23%

Owner Costs

$2,058/mo ↑ 30%

149,519

Population

124,637

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Surprise, AZ and Vallejo, CA, the overall cost of living indices are 126 and 155 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $96/month cheaper in Surprise, saving renters about $1,152/year.

Median household income is $3,875/year higher in Surprise. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Surprise is $396,000 compared to $557,500 in Vallejo.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Surprise vs Vallejo — common questions

Is Surprise or Vallejo cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Surprise is cheaper to live in with an index of 126 compared to 155 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Surprise and Vallejo?

Median rent in Surprise is $1,917/month and in Vallejo it's $2,013/month — a difference of $96/month.

Which city has higher income, Surprise or Vallejo?

Median household income is $93,371 in Surprise and $89,496 in Vallejo. Median household income is $3,875/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 Vallejo?

It depends on your priorities. Surprise has a cost index of 126 with median rent of $1,917/mo, while Vallejo has a cost index of 155 with rent of $2,013/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

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

Surprise

Vallejo

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

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