Side-by-side cost of living comparison for 2026
11% cheaper
Providence is 11% more affordable than Scottsdale. A $75,000 salary in Scottsdale is equivalent to $67,073 in Providence.
Index values shown. National average = 100. Lower is cheaper.
To maintain the same standard of living:
See exact take-home pay: Rhode Island salaries · Arizona salaries
Housing is typically the biggest factor in any cost-of-living comparison. Providence has a housing index of 118 while Scottsdale sits at 162 (national average = 100). The median home in Providence costs $310,000 compared to $580,000 in Scottsdale, a difference of $270,000. Monthly rent follows a similar pattern: $1,500 in Providence versus $2,000 in Scottsdale.
Groceries and everyday expenses show a narrower gap: Providence scores 105 while Scottsdale scores 103. Both cities are close to the national average for grocery costs.
Healthcare costs in Providence (112) are higher than Scottsdale (95).
Median household income in Providence is $47,012 compared to $92,298 in Scottsdale. When adjusted for cost of living, income goes further in Providence.
Amazon affiliate links