How Much Does It Cost to Live in Phoenix, AZ?

Want to relocate to Phoenix? Before moving to this Southwestern metro—whether you're moving across the country or moving a short distance—In addition to asking movers questions, you should also know how much it costs to live there. From housing to healthcare, learn more about the average cost of living in Phoenix in this guide.

Cost of living data provided by the Council for Community and Economic Research (C2ER).

How Much Does It Cost to Live in Phoenix?

The cost of living in Phoenix is about 7% higher than the national average, making it a relatively affordable place to live and a place people are moving to. This desert city may seem expensive, but residents can still find savings in areas like healthcare—which costs 5% less than the national average. Explore more cost comparisons below!

Cost of Housing in Phoenix

At nearly 16% higher than the U.S. average, Phoenix homes and apartments are more expensive—but housing is the bulk of living costs in Phoenix, making it a worthwhile investment. Compare home prices in Phoenix in the table below to help you consider whether to rent or buy in Phoenix.

Cost of Utilities in Phoenix (Monthly)

Utilities contribute to the average monthly cost of living in Phoenix. While energy bills are nearly 13% more expensive on average, residents can save on their phone bills, which are more affordable than the national average.

Cost of Groceries in Phoenix

Though Phoenix is warm year-round, it's a desert city—meaning there isn't as much water for interstate crops and costs are a little inflated to pay for transport. While some grocery items average a higher price tag (like coffee and bread), most items are still very similar to the average national price—in fact, Phoenix's average cost of groceries is just barely 2% higher than the national average. That said, you can find more or less savings based off dietary preferences and needs, as well as household size. Check out common grocery prices below.

Cost of Healthcare in Phoenix

Healthcare costs in Phoenix generally range quite a bit lower than the national average. Prescriptions and optometrist visits save residents as much as $5 to $20 respectively—and doctor visits are nearly 29% more affordable! Learn more about Phoenix healthcare costs in the table below.

Cost of Transportation in Phoenix

Transportation costs relating to vehicle maintenance stay fairly similar to the national average prices. See how vehicle fuel and maintenance costs contribute to the Phoenix cost of living below.

Cost of Goods & Services in Phoenix

Prices vary for miscellaneous goods and services costs in Phoenix. Though haircuts and beauty salon visits tend to cost more, prices are similar to the national average for the most part. Of course, residents can find additional savings in this category depending on lifestyle and household size.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a livable wage in Phoenix?

A livable wage in Phoenix is $25.69 per hour or $53,433 per year for a single adult with no children working full time. For households with two working adults and two children, however, families need to make $29.62 per hour or $123,226 per year to have a wage that affords living in Phoenix. In addition to household size, residents can find additional savings based off lifestyle and which Phoenix area they reside in.

What is the cost of living in Phoenix vs. Denver?

Phoenix's cost of living is 2.6% less than Denver's, making this Southwestern metro slightly more affordable than the more northern mountain city. Much of this can be attributed to housing and healthcare costs, though Phoenix living expenses are actually higher than Denver in categories like utilities and transportation.

Is Phoenix expensive to live in?

Phoenix is an expensive city to live in compared to the national average, but it is still a more affordable option than other large cities like San Francisco, Miami, and Chicago. On top of that, though housing is a major cost of living for U.S. residents, those moving to Phoenix will find it isn't just one of the best big cities to live in the U.S., it's also one of the best places to invest in real estate—including investing in an Airbnb—which makes the 15.6% difference a worthwhile investment. For those looking for a home on a budget, there are safe, affordable neighborhoods in Phoenix to consider.

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Moving to Phoenix soon? Use Extra Space Storage's helpful moving resources, to make your move easier. And if you need storage throughout your transition, we have plenty of storage facilities located across the Phoenix metro. Find storage near you today!