Is Boston or Phoenix more affordable?
Boston has a median rent of $1,783/month, while Phoenix is $1,650/month. Phoenix is more affordable for renters.
City comparison
Boston, MA vs Phoenix, AZ
Side-by-side comparison of cost of living, taxes, climate, and quality of life between Boston and Phoenix.
1
Boston wins
of 5 metrics
tracked
4
Phoenix wins
MA
Boston
vs
AZ
Phoenix
Overview
672,814
Population
1,608,139
$81,744✓
Median Income
-24.2%$62,000
Cost of Living
$1,783
Median Rent / mo
-7.5%$1,650✓
$610,400
Median Home Price
-31.2%$420,000✓
26%
Rent-to-Income %
32%
Taxes
5.00%
State Income Tax
2.50%✓
0.00%
Local Tax Rate
8.60%
Climate & Weather
45.41°F
Avg High Temp
86°F
42.48°F
Avg Low Temp
63°F
N/A
Sunny Days / Year
299 days✓
N/A
Annual Rainfall
8"
Who should choose
Boston, MA
Boston is a city in Massachusetts with a population of 672,814.
Read full Boston guide →Who should choose
Phoenix, AZ
Phoenix is a city in Arizona with a population of 1,608,139.
Read full Phoenix guide →Boston vs Phoenix — Common Questions
Which city has lower taxes — Boston or Phoenix?
Massachusetts has a 5.00% state income tax. Arizona has a 2.50% state income tax. Phoenix wins on state income tax.
What is the weather difference between Boston and Phoenix?
Phoenix gets 299 sunny days/year. Avg high in Boston: 45.41°F. Avg high in Phoenix: 86°F
Which city is better for families — Boston or Phoenix?
Boston. 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.