Cost of living · Phoenix, AZ · 2026
What salary do you need to live in Phoenix, AZ?
What salary do you need to live in Phoenix, AZ?
To cover the essentials living alone in Phoenix, AZ — about $2,320 a month — you need to earn roughly $33,000 a year before tax (accounting for AZ state tax). To live comfortably, with money left for savings, closer to $45,000. Rent alone is $1,450 a month.
Verified 12 August 2026
To get by $33,000 Covers rent and essentials with little spare
To be comfortable $45,000 Essentials plus room to save and enjoy the city
What it costs to live in Phoenix, AZ
| Monthly cost | |
|---|---|
| Rent (one-bed) | $1,450 |
| Utilities | $175 |
| Transport | $115 |
| Food | $450 |
| Health | $130 |
| Total | $2,320 |
On the $33,000 "get by" salary, your take-home is about $2,323 a month — just covering the $2,320 of essentials.
Roommates change everything. Splitting rent and utilities can cut the salary you need by tens of thousands. Run your own numbers →