Is Los Angeles or Phoenix more affordable?
Los Angeles has a median rent of $1,852/month, while Phoenix is $1,650/month. Phoenix is more affordable for renters.
City comparison
Los Angeles, CA vs Phoenix, AZ
Side-by-side comparison of cost of living, taxes, climate, and quality of life between Los Angeles and Phoenix.
1
Los Angeles wins
of 5 metrics
tracked
4
Phoenix wins
CA
Los Angeles
vs
AZ
Phoenix
Overview
3,898,747
Population
1,608,139
$69,144✓
Median Income
-10.3%$62,000
Cost of Living
$1,852
Median Rent / mo
-10.9%$1,650✓
$750,000
Median Home Price
-44.0%$420,000✓
32%
Rent-to-Income %
32%
Taxes
9.30%
State Income Tax
2.50%✓
9.50%
Local Tax Rate
8.60%
Climate & Weather
75°F
Avg High Temp
86°F
58°F
Avg Low Temp
63°F
284 days
Sunny Days / Year
299 days✓
15"
Annual Rainfall
8"
Who should choose
Los Angeles, CA
Los Angeles is a city in California with a population of 3,898,747.
Read full Los Angeles guide →Who should choose
Phoenix, AZ
Phoenix is a city in Arizona with a population of 1,608,139.
Read full Phoenix guide →Los Angeles vs Phoenix — Common Questions
Which city has lower taxes — Los Angeles or Phoenix?
California has a 9.30% state income tax. Arizona has a 2.50% state income tax. Phoenix wins on state income tax.
What is the weather difference between Los Angeles and Phoenix?
Los Angeles gets 284 sunny days/year. Phoenix gets 299 sunny days/year. Avg high in Los Angeles: 75°F. Avg high in Phoenix: 86°F
Which city is better for families — Los Angeles or Phoenix?
Los Angeles. 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.