Is Austin or Phoenix more affordable?
Austin has a median rent of $1,415/month, while Phoenix is $1,650/month. Austin is more affordable for renters.
City comparison
Austin, TX vs Phoenix, AZ
Side-by-side comparison of cost of living, taxes, climate, and quality of life between Austin and Phoenix.
4
Austin wins
of 5 metrics
tracked
1
Phoenix wins
TX
Austin
vs
AZ
Phoenix
Overview
944,658
Population
1,608,139
$78,965✓
Median Income
-21.5%$62,000
Cost of Living
$1,415✓
Median Rent / mo
+16.6%$1,650
$381,400✓
Median Home Price
+10.1%$420,000
22%
Rent-to-Income %
32%
Taxes
None✓
State Income Tax
2.50%
0.00%
Local Tax Rate
8.60%
Climate & Weather
71.28°F
Avg High Temp
86°F
68.16°F
Avg Low Temp
63°F
N/A
Sunny Days / Year
299 days✓
N/A
Annual Rainfall
8"
Who should choose
Austin, TX
Austin is a city in Texas with a population of 944,658.
Read full Austin guide →Who should choose
Phoenix, AZ
Phoenix is a city in Arizona with a population of 1,608,139.
Read full Phoenix guide →Austin vs Phoenix — Common Questions
Which city has lower taxes — Austin or Phoenix?
Texas has no state income tax. Arizona has a 2.50% state income tax. Austin wins on state income tax.
What is the weather difference between Austin and Phoenix?
Phoenix gets 299 sunny days/year. Avg high in Austin: 71.28°F. Avg high in Phoenix: 86°F
Which city is better for families — Austin or Phoenix?
Austin. Phoenix. The right choice depends on your priorities — income, affordability, taxes, and climate all play a role.
More city comparisons
Data sourced from U.S. Census Bureau, Bureau of Labor Statistics, and NOAA. Green values indicate a better outcome for that metric.