Is Portland or Phoenix more affordable?
Portland has a median rent of $1,406/month, while Phoenix is $1,650/month. Portland is more affordable for renters.
City comparison
Portland, OR vs Phoenix, AZ
Side-by-side comparison of cost of living, taxes, climate, and quality of life between Portland and Phoenix.
2
Portland wins
of 5 metrics
tracked
3
Phoenix wins
OR
Portland
vs
AZ
Phoenix
Overview
647,176
Population
1,608,139
$78,476✓
Median Income
-21.0%$62,000
Cost of Living
$1,406✓
Median Rent / mo
+17.4%$1,650
$462,800
Median Home Price
-9.2%$420,000✓
21%
Rent-to-Income %
32%
Taxes
9.90%
State Income Tax
2.50%✓
0.00%
Local Tax Rate
8.60%
Climate & Weather
50.49°F
Avg High Temp
86°F
46.76°F
Avg Low Temp
63°F
N/A
Sunny Days / Year
299 days✓
N/A
Annual Rainfall
8"
Who should choose
Portland, OR
Portland is a city in Oregon with a population of 647,176.
Read full Portland guide →Who should choose
Phoenix, AZ
Phoenix is a city in Arizona with a population of 1,608,139.
Read full Phoenix guide →Portland vs Phoenix — Common Questions
Which city has lower taxes — Portland or Phoenix?
Oregon has a 9.90% state income tax. Arizona has a 2.50% state income tax. Phoenix wins on state income tax.
What is the weather difference between Portland and Phoenix?
Phoenix gets 299 sunny days/year. Avg high in Portland: 50.49°F. Avg high in Phoenix: 86°F
Which city is better for families — Portland or Phoenix?
Portland. 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.