Is Long Beach or Phoenix more affordable?
Long Beach has a median rent of $1,800/month, while Phoenix is $1,650/month. Phoenix is more affordable for renters.
City comparison
Long Beach, CA vs Phoenix, AZ
Side-by-side comparison of cost of living, taxes, climate, and quality of life between Long Beach and Phoenix.
0
Long Beach wins
of 5 metrics
tracked
5
Phoenix wins
CA
Long Beach
vs
AZ
Phoenix
Overview
466,742
Population
1,608,139
$61,988
Median Income
+0.0%$62,000✓
Cost of Living
$1,800
Median Rent / mo
-8.3%$1,650✓
$680,000
Median Home Price
-38.2%$420,000✓
35%
Rent-to-Income %
32%
Taxes
9.30%
State Income Tax
2.50%✓
10.25%
Local Tax Rate
8.60%
Climate & Weather
71°F
Avg High Temp
86°F
57°F
Avg Low Temp
63°F
287 days
Sunny Days / Year
299 days✓
13"
Annual Rainfall
8"
Who should choose
Long Beach, CA
Long Beach is a city in California with a population of 466,742.
Read full Long Beach guide →Who should choose
Phoenix, AZ
Phoenix is a city in Arizona with a population of 1,608,139.
Read full Phoenix guide →Long Beach vs Phoenix — Common Questions
Which city has lower taxes — Long Beach or Phoenix?
California has a 9.30% state income tax. Arizona has a 2.50% state income tax. Phoenix wins on state income tax.
What is the weather difference between Long Beach and Phoenix?
Long Beach gets 287 sunny days/year. Phoenix gets 299 sunny days/year. Avg high in Long Beach: 71°F. Avg high in Phoenix: 86°F
Which city is better for families — Long Beach or Phoenix?
Long Beach. Phoenix. The right choice depends on your priorities — income, affordability, taxes, and climate all play a role.
More city comparisons
Data sourced from U.S. Census Bureau, Bureau of Labor Statistics, and NOAA. Green values indicate a better outcome for that metric.