Phoenix, AZ vs San Diego, CA: Cost of Living
Compare the cost of living between Phoenix, AZ and San Diego, CA. See the equivalent salary and median rent powered by BLS Regional Price Parities.
Phoenix, AZ
AZ
- Overall RPP (US=100)
- 103.7
- Housing RPP
- 122.9
- Goods RPP
- 98.3
- 2-BR median rent
- $1,877/mo
Arizona income tax 2.5% flat rate (since 2023). No city income tax.
San Diego, CA
CA
- Overall RPP (US=100)
- 114.5
- Housing RPP
- 183.9
- Goods RPP
- 108.2
- 2-BR median rent
- $2,833/mo
California income tax 1%-13.3%. No city income tax.
Equivalent salary
San Diego, CA is more expensive than Phoenix, AZ by about 10.4% (RPP 103.7 to 114.5).
$60,000 in Phoenix, AZ
-> $66,249
in San Diego, CA
$100,000 in Phoenix, AZ
-> $110,415
in San Diego, CA
$150,000 in Phoenix, AZ
-> $165,622
in San Diego, CA
This tool provides estimates only. Equivalent-salary figures are derived from BLS Regional Price Parities (RPP) and HUD Fair Market Rents — they are averages, not guarantees. Actual cost of living varies by neighborhood, lifestyle, and individual circumstances. Not financial advice.
Frequently asked questions
- Is San Diego, CA cheaper or more expensive than Phoenix, AZ?
- San Diego, CA (RPP 114.5) is more expensive than Phoenix, AZ (RPP 103.7) by about 10.4%.
- What salary do I need in San Diego, CA if I earn $100,000 in Phoenix, AZ?
- You would need approximately $110,415 in San Diego, CA to maintain the same purchasing power as $100,000 in Phoenix, AZ. Formula: $100,000 x (114.5 / 103.7).