Side-by-side cost of living comparison for 2026
38% cheaper
Phoenix is 38% more affordable than San Diego. A $75,000 salary in San Diego is equivalent to $46,875 in Phoenix.
Index values shown. National average = 100. Lower is cheaper.
To maintain the same standard of living:
See exact take-home pay: Arizona salaries · California salaries
Housing is typically the biggest factor in any cost-of-living comparison. Phoenix has a housing index of 102 while San Diego sits at 248 (national average = 100). The median home in Phoenix costs $350,000 compared to $800,000 in San Diego, a difference of $450,000. Monthly rent follows a similar pattern: $1,400 in Phoenix versus $2,500 in San Diego.
Groceries and everyday expenses show a notable difference: Phoenix scores 99 while San Diego scores 107.
Healthcare costs in Phoenix (95) are lower than San Diego (107). Both are close to the national average.
Median household income in Phoenix is $57,459 compared to $79,646 in San Diego. When adjusted for cost of living, income goes further in Phoenix.
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