Phoenix vs Jacksonville: cost of living compared
Jacksonville is 7% cheaper than Phoenix overall. Jacksonville (FL) has no state income tax; AZ tops out around 2.5%.
Indexes use a US average of 100: below 100 is cheaper than the national average. Housing and transportation are derived from median home prices, rents and commute times; figures come from BLS, Census ACS, Numbeo and the MIT Living Wage Calculator.
The big picture
Overall, Jacksonville presents a more budget-friendly environment compared to Phoenix. The most significant factor driving this difference is housing, which is noticeably more affordable in Florida's largest city. While other cost categories show varying degrees of difference, the substantial savings on housing in Jacksonville contribute most to its lower overall cost of living index, making it a more economical choice for many residents.
Housing
Housing costs are considerably lower in Jacksonville, whether you are looking to buy a home or rent an apartment. Median home prices are substantially less, and typical one-bedroom rents are also a bit lower. However, Florida homeowners should factor in potentially higher insurance premiums, including flood coverage, and be aware of common community fees like HOAs or CDDs, plus property taxes resetting upon purchase.
Taxes and everyday costs
Daily expenses generally lean in Jacksonville's favor. Transportation costs are lower, and groceries are also more affordable. While utilities are a bit higher in Jacksonville, healthcare and miscellaneous expenses are lower. A major difference is Florida's lack of state income tax, which can significantly impact take-home pay compared to Arizona's state income tax, affecting overall household budgeting.
Lifestyle trade-offs
Phoenix offers a desert climate with abundant sunshine and dry heat, while Jacksonville features a humid subtropical climate with warm, wet summers and mild winters, plus proximity to the Atlantic coast. Both cities are car-dependent, with average commute times being roughly similar. Jacksonville experiences hurricane season during warmer months, which is a consideration not present in Phoenix's climate.
Bottom line
For those weighing a move, Jacksonville generally offers a more advantageous financial picture, primarily due to its lower housing costs and the absence of state income tax. While some expenses like utilities might be a bit higher, the overall savings on housing, groceries, and transportation can lead to a more favorable household budget. Prospective homeowners in Florida should carefully consider all ownership costs beyond the mortgage.
| Measure | Phoenix, AZ | Jacksonville, FL |
|---|---|---|
| Overall cost of living (US avg = 100) | 102 | 95 |
| Housing index | 105 | 91 |
| Transportation index | 100 | 96 |
| Food index | 96 | 92 |
| Healthcare index | 98 | 95 |
| Utilities index | 112 | 105 |
| Misc index | 92 | 88 |
| Median home price | $388,000 | $318,000 |
| Median 1-bedroom rent | $1,450/mo | $1,400/mo |
| Average commute | 28 min | 27 min |
Compare any two metros with the free cost of living tool, or see the true monthly cost of a specific Jacksonville home with the True Cost Calculator.