Avondale, AZ vs. Glendale, AZ: Cost of Living Comparison (2025)
On average, housing costs are 22% lower in Avondale compared to Glendale for a similar home or apartment. This article provides a detailed cost of living comparison between Avondale and Glendale, Arizona. It is perfect for families relocating to the Phoenix area, professionals choosing between job offers, or anyone comparing the real-life costs of these two suburbs in 2025.
1. Housing Costs
Housing is the biggest factor in the cost of living difference between Avondale and Glendale. Here’s a comparison of typical rent and home prices:
| Housing Type | Avondale | Glendale |
|---|---|---|
| 2BR Apartment Rent | $1,350 | $1,600 |
| 3BR Home Mortgage | $1,800 | $2,400 |
| Median Home Price | $350,000 | $450,000 |
🏆 Winner: Avondale
2. Utilities and Energy Costs
Utility costs are similar between the two cities, with Avondale residents paying about 5% less per month on average:
- Avondale: $180-$220/month
- Glendale: $190-$240/month
Both cities experience hot summers, so expect higher AC bills from June through September. Many utilities offer off-peak plans to help manage costs.
🏆 Winner: Avondale
3. Groceries and Daily Expenses
Grocery costs are nearly identical in Avondale and Glendale, with Avondale averaging about 2% lower prices overall. Restaurant prices and everyday goods are also comparable.
For a family of four, expect to budget around $800-$1,000 per month for groceries in either city. Add 10-15% more if frequently dining out.
🏆 Winner: Tie
4. Taxes and Fees
Both Avondale and Glendale have similar property tax rates around 0.7% of assessed value. However, Avondale’s lower home prices mean a typical household pays $600 less per year in property taxes compared to Glendale.
City service fees like trash and water are nearly identical. HOA fees are common in both cities, typically ranging from $30-$100 per month. In Avondale, these often include landscaping and community amenities.
🏆 Winner: Avondale
5. Cost of Living in Avondale vs Glendale
| Category | Avondale | Glendale |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | $1,800 | $2,400 |
| Utilities | $200 | $220 |
| Groceries | $800 | $820 |
| Transportation | $400 | $380 |
| Taxes | $200 | $250 |
| Misc | $400 | $400 |
| Estimated Monthly Total | $3,800 | $4,470 |
6. Lifestyle Fit
Avondale offers a quieter, more suburban feel with larger yards and more spacious homes. Commutes are longer, but traffic is lighter than Glendale.
Glendale provides an urban-suburban mix with shorter commutes, walkable areas, and more public transportation options. Homes are smaller but closer to Phoenix job centers.
Glendale averages 2°F cooler summer temps than Avondale. But both cities require AC May through October.
7. Frequently Asked Questions
- Is Avondale more affordable than Glendale? Yes, Avondale offers a lower overall cost of living, primarily due to cheaper housing.
- Which city has lower rent? Avondale rents average 15-20% less than comparable apartments in Glendale.
- Where is it cheaper to buy a home? Avondale home prices are significantly lower, with a median price of $350,000 compared to $450,000 in Glendale (2025).
8. Conclusion
While both Avondale and Glendale offer a high quality of life, Avondale comes out ahead for cost of living in 2025. A household moving from Glendale to Avondale might save $400 per month on housing alone.
Avondale is ideal for families seeking affordable homes with more space. Glendale appeals to professionals who value shorter commutes and urban amenities. Compare [Monthly Budget Examples for Avondale Residents](/avondale-az/monthly-budget/) to see typical costs.
For more details, read our full [Cost of Living in Avondale (2025 Guide)](/avondale-az/cost-overview/). No matter which city you choose, Avondale and Glendale both provide a welcoming community to call home in the Valley of the Sun.