Is Salt Lake City or Phoenix more affordable?
Salt Lake City has a median rent of $1,450/month, while Phoenix is $1,650/month. Salt Lake City is more affordable for renters.
City comparison
Salt Lake City, UT vs Phoenix, AZ
Side-by-side comparison of cost of living, taxes, climate, and quality of life between Salt Lake City and Phoenix.
1
Salt Lake City wins
of 5 metrics
tracked
4
Phoenix wins
UT
Salt Lake City
vs
AZ
Phoenix
Overview
199,723
Population
1,608,139
$58,000
Median Income
+6.9%$62,000✓
Cost of Living
$1,450✓
Median Rent / mo
+13.8%$1,650
$480,000
Median Home Price
-12.5%$420,000✓
30%
Rent-to-Income %
32%
Taxes
4.65%
State Income Tax
2.50%✓
7.75%
Local Tax Rate
8.60%
Climate & Weather
65°F
Avg High Temp
86°F
41°F
Avg Low Temp
63°F
222 days
Sunny Days / Year
299 days✓
17"
Annual Rainfall
8"
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 →Who should choose
Phoenix, AZ
Phoenix is a city in Arizona with a population of 1,608,139.
Read full Phoenix guide →Salt Lake City vs Phoenix — Common Questions
Which city has lower taxes — Salt Lake City or Phoenix?
Utah has a 4.65% state income tax. Arizona has a 2.50% state income tax. Phoenix wins on state income tax.
What is the weather difference between Salt Lake City and Phoenix?
Salt Lake City gets 222 sunny days/year. Phoenix gets 299 sunny days/year. Avg high in Salt Lake City: 65°F. Avg high in Phoenix: 86°F
Which city is better for families — Salt Lake City or Phoenix?
Salt Lake City. 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.