Is Phoenix or Virginia Beach more affordable?
Phoenix has a median rent of $1,650/month, while Virginia Beach is $1,350/month. Virginia Beach is more affordable for renters.
City comparison
Phoenix, AZ vs Virginia Beach, VA
Side-by-side comparison of cost of living, taxes, climate, and quality of life between Phoenix and Virginia Beach.
2
Phoenix wins
of 5 metrics
tracked
3
Virginia Beach wins
AZ
Phoenix
vs
VA
Virginia Beach
Overview
1,608,139
Population
459,470
$62,000
Median Income
+15.4%$71,551✓
Cost of Living
$1,650
Median Rent / mo
-18.2%$1,350✓
$420,000
Median Home Price
-19.0%$340,000✓
32%
Rent-to-Income %
23%
Taxes
2.50%✓
State Income Tax
5.75%
8.60%
Local Tax Rate
6.00%
Climate & Weather
86°F
Avg High Temp
67°F
63°F
Avg Low Temp
48°F
299 days✓
Sunny Days / Year
213 days
8"
Annual Rainfall
46"
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
Virginia Beach, VA
Virginia Beach is a city in Virginia with a population of 459,470.
Read full Virginia Beach guide →Phoenix vs Virginia Beach — Common Questions
Which city has lower taxes — Phoenix or Virginia Beach?
Arizona has a 2.50% state income tax. Virginia has a 5.75% state income tax. Phoenix wins on state income tax.
What is the weather difference between Phoenix and Virginia Beach?
Phoenix gets 299 sunny days/year. Virginia Beach gets 213 sunny days/year. Avg high in Phoenix: 86°F. Avg high in Virginia Beach: 67°F
Which city is better for families — Phoenix or Virginia Beach?
Phoenix. Virginia Beach. 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.