Phoenix vs Los Angeles: Cost of Living & Housing Comparison
Phoenix's median home value is $340,200 — 59% lower than Los Angeles's $822,600.
Median household income is $72,092 in Phoenix versus $76,244 in Los Angeles.
Typical rent runs $1,322 in Phoenix and $1,791 in Los Angeles.
| Metric | Phoenix, AZ | Los Angeles, CA |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 1,609,456 | 3,881,041 |
| Median home value | $340,200 | $822,600 |
| Median household income | $72,092 | $76,244 |
| Median gross rent | $1,322 | $1,791 |
| Climate risk (FEMA) | Very High | Very High |
On housing costs, Phoenix, AZ looks more affordable than Los Angeles, CA — lower median home value and rent. This reflects housing only, not total cost of living.
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Sources: U.S. Census Bureau American Community Survey; FEMA National Risk Index
Data last updated July 2026.