Is Phoenix or Sacramento more affordable?
Phoenix has a median rent of $1,650/month, while Sacramento is $1,650/month. Both cities have similar rent costs.
City comparison
Phoenix, AZ vs Sacramento, CA
Side-by-side comparison of cost of living, taxes, climate, and quality of life between Phoenix and Sacramento.
4
Phoenix wins
of 5 metrics
tracked
0
Sacramento wins
AZ
Phoenix
vs
CA
Sacramento
Overview
1,608,139
Population
524,943
$62,000✓
Median Income
-2.1%$60,715
Cost of Living
$1,650
Median Rent / mo
-0.0%$1,650
$420,000✓
Median Home Price
+19.0%$500,000
32%
Rent-to-Income %
33%
Taxes
2.50%✓
State Income Tax
9.30%
8.60%
Local Tax Rate
8.75%
Climate & Weather
86°F
Avg High Temp
73°F
63°F
Avg Low Temp
50°F
299 days✓
Sunny Days / Year
269 days
8"
Annual Rainfall
18"
Who should choose
Phoenix, AZ
Phoenix is a city in Arizona with a population of 1,608,139.
Read full Phoenix guide →Who should choose
Sacramento, CA
Sacramento is a city in California with a population of 524,943.
Read full Sacramento guide →Phoenix vs Sacramento — Common Questions
Which city has lower taxes — Phoenix or Sacramento?
Arizona has a 2.50% state income tax. California has a 9.30% state income tax. Phoenix wins on state income tax.
What is the weather difference between Phoenix and Sacramento?
Phoenix gets 299 sunny days/year. Sacramento gets 269 sunny days/year. Avg high in Phoenix: 86°F. Avg high in Sacramento: 73°F
Which city is better for families — Phoenix or Sacramento?
Phoenix. Sacramento. 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.