Moving from Chicago, IL to Phoenix, AZ
Thinking about moving from Chicago, IL to Phoenix, AZ? Overall prices are 2% lower in Phoenix, AZ than in Chicago, IL, making Phoenix, AZ the more affordable of the two. This guide breaks down housing, income, taxes, and climate using the latest US government data so you can plan your relocation budget with realistic numbers rather than guesswork.
Salary calculator
How much would you need to earn in Phoenix, AZ to maintain your standard of living from Chicago, IL?
Equivalent salary in Phoenix, AZ
$73,707
You could earn $1,293 less (2% lower) and break even.
Based on BEA Regional Price Parity (cost index) for each city's metro area. A rough estimate of overall purchasing power, not tax or take-home pay.
Housing
Median rent is 5% higher in Phoenix ($1,458) than in Chicago ($1,380). The typical home value is 17% higher in Phoenix ($381,900) than in Chicago ($315,200). Factor in moving costs, deposits, and the gap between advertised and median rents when you set a housing budget.
Income & jobs
Median household income is 2% higher in Phoenix ($77,041) than in Chicago ($75,134). After adjusting pay for local prices, a typical paycheck goes further in Phoenix, AZ.
Taxes
The top state income tax rate is 49% lower in Phoenix (2.50%) than in Chicago (4.95%). State sales tax is 10% lower in Phoenix (5.60%) than in Chicago (6.25%). Remember that local taxes and your specific bracket change the real picture (Tax Foundation, 2024).
Climate & air quality
Average air quality index is 60% higher in Phoenix (52.0) than in Chicago (21.0). Lower AQI means cleaner air on a typical day, though seasonal wildfire smoke and pollen can shift this.
Frequently asked questions
Is Phoenix, AZ cheaper than Chicago, IL?
Yes. Phoenix, AZ has an overall cost index of 103.9 versus 105.7 in Chicago, IL — about 2% cheaper overall.
How much is rent in Phoenix, AZ?
The median gross rent in Phoenix is $1,458 per month (US Census ACS).
What salary do you need in Phoenix, AZ?
Median household income in Phoenix is $77,041. Use the salary calculator on this page to convert your current Chicago pay into the equivalent you'd need in Phoenix.