Side-by-side cost of living comparison for 2026
25% cheaper
Indianapolis is 25% more affordable than Scottsdale. A $75,000 salary in Scottsdale is equivalent to $56,098 in Indianapolis.
Index values shown. National average = 100. Lower is cheaper.
To maintain the same standard of living:
See exact take-home pay: Indiana salaries · Arizona salaries
Housing is typically the biggest factor in any cost-of-living comparison. Indianapolis has a housing index of 80 while Scottsdale sits at 162 (national average = 100). The median home in Indianapolis costs $220,000 compared to $580,000 in Scottsdale, a difference of $360,000. Monthly rent follows a similar pattern: $1,100 in Indianapolis versus $2,000 in Scottsdale.
Groceries and everyday expenses show a notable difference: Indianapolis scores 98 while Scottsdale scores 103. Both cities are close to the national average for grocery costs.
Healthcare costs in Indianapolis (96) are higher than Scottsdale (95). Both are close to the national average.
Median household income in Indianapolis is $49,968 compared to $92,298 in Scottsdale. When adjusted for cost of living, income goes further in Indianapolis.
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