Is Phoenix or Richmond more affordable?
Phoenix has a median rent of $1,650/month, while Richmond is $1,250/month. Richmond is more affordable for renters.
City comparison
Phoenix, AZ vs Richmond, VA
Side-by-side comparison of cost of living, taxes, climate, and quality of life between Phoenix and Richmond.
3
Phoenix wins
of 5 metrics
tracked
2
Richmond wins
AZ
Phoenix
vs
VA
Richmond
Overview
1,608,139
Population
226,610
$62,000✓
Median Income
-16.1%$52,000
Cost of Living
$1,650
Median Rent / mo
-24.2%$1,250✓
$420,000
Median Home Price
-31.0%$290,000✓
32%
Rent-to-Income %
29%
Taxes
2.50%✓
State Income Tax
5.75%
8.60%
Local Tax Rate
6.00%
Climate & Weather
86°F
Avg High Temp
68°F
63°F
Avg Low Temp
47°F
299 days✓
Sunny Days / Year
205 days
8"
Annual Rainfall
44"
Who should choose
Phoenix, AZ
Phoenix is a city in Arizona with a population of 1,608,139.
Read full Phoenix guide →Who should choose
Richmond, VA
Richmond is a city in Virginia with a population of 226,610.
Read full Richmond guide →Phoenix vs Richmond — Common Questions
Which city has lower taxes — Phoenix or Richmond?
Arizona has a 2.50% state income tax. Virginia has a 5.75% state income tax. Phoenix wins on state income tax.
What is the weather difference between Phoenix and Richmond?
Phoenix gets 299 sunny days/year. Richmond gets 205 sunny days/year. Avg high in Phoenix: 86°F. Avg high in Richmond: 68°F
Which city is better for families — Phoenix or Richmond?
Phoenix. Richmond. 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.