Is Phoenix or Salt Lake City more affordable?
Phoenix has a median rent of $1,650/month, while Salt Lake City is $1,450/month. Salt Lake City is more affordable for renters.
City comparison
Phoenix, AZ vs Salt Lake City, UT
Side-by-side comparison of cost of living, taxes, climate, and quality of life between Phoenix and Salt Lake City.
4
Phoenix wins
of 5 metrics
tracked
1
Salt Lake City wins
AZ
Phoenix
vs
UT
Salt Lake City
Overview
1,608,139
Population
199,723
$62,000✓
Median Income
-6.5%$58,000
Cost of Living
$1,650
Median Rent / mo
-12.1%$1,450✓
$420,000✓
Median Home Price
+14.3%$480,000
32%
Rent-to-Income %
30%
Taxes
2.50%✓
State Income Tax
4.65%
8.60%
Local Tax Rate
7.75%
Climate & Weather
86°F
Avg High Temp
65°F
63°F
Avg Low Temp
41°F
299 days✓
Sunny Days / Year
222 days
8"
Annual Rainfall
17"
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
Salt Lake City, UT
Salt Lake City is a city in Utah with a population of 199,723.
Read full Salt Lake City guide →Phoenix vs Salt Lake City — Common Questions
Which city has lower taxes — Phoenix or Salt Lake City?
Arizona has a 2.50% state income tax. Utah has a 4.65% state income tax. Phoenix wins on state income tax.
What is the weather difference between Phoenix and Salt Lake City?
Phoenix gets 299 sunny days/year. Salt Lake City gets 222 sunny days/year. Avg high in Phoenix: 86°F. Avg high in Salt Lake City: 65°F
Which city is better for families — Phoenix or Salt Lake City?
Phoenix. Salt Lake City. 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.