Chandler, AZ vs. Gilbert, AZ: Cost of Living Comparison (2025)
This article provides a detailed cost of living comparison between Chandler and nearby Gilbert, Arizona. It’s perfect for families relocating, professionals choosing between job offers, or anyone comparing the real-life costs of living in Chandler vs Gilbert in 2025. All income figures are expressed as gross monthly income (pre-tax).
1. Housing Costs
Housing is often the biggest factor in cost of living differences. Here’s how typical housing expenses compare between Chandler and Gilbert:
| Housing Type | Chandler | Gilbert |
|---|---|---|
| Median 2BR Apartment Rent | $1,650 | $1,720 |
| Median 3BR Home Price | $450,000 | $475,000 |
🏆 Winner: Chandler. Housing costs are about 4-5% lower in Chandler compared to Gilbert for both renting and buying.
2. Utilities and Energy Costs
Utility costs are fairly similar between the two cities, with a typical household spending around:
- Electricity: $150-200/month
- Water/Sewer/Trash: $70-100/month
- Internet: $60-80/month
Both cities experience hot summers, so expect air conditioning bills to spike from June through September. Many homes utilize solar panels to offset high summer electric bills.
🏆 Winner: Tie. Utility costs are nearly identical between Chandler and Gilbert.
3. Groceries and Daily Expenses
Grocery costs and everyday expenses like gas and dining out are comparable between Chandler and Gilbert. Expect to budget around $400-500 per person monthly for groceries and household items.
Restaurant prices are reasonable in both cities, with a nice dinner out for two typically costing $50-80 including tip. Fast casual and drive-thru options are plentiful as well.
🏆 Winner: Tie. Grocery and daily living costs are very similar.
4. Taxes and Fees
Arizona’s statewide sales tax rate is 5.6%. With local taxes added:
- Chandler’s total sales tax rate is 8.8%
- Gilbert’s total sales tax rate is 8.6%
Property taxes in Chandler average 0.6% of assessed home value vs 0.7% in Gilbert. For a $450K home, that’s a difference of about $450 per year.
🏆 Winner: Gilbert. The combination of slightly lower sales and property tax rates gives Gilbert a small edge.
5. Cost Summary Table
| Category | Chandler | Gilbert |
|---|---|---|
| Housing (3BR Home) | $2,300 | $2,450 |
| Utilities | $350 | $350 |
| Groceries (2 people) | $800 | $800 |
| Transportation | $500 | $500 |
| Taxes (0.6% vs 0.7%) | $225 | $263 |
| Misc Expenses | $600 | $600 |
| Estimated Monthly Total | $4,775 | $4,963 |
6. Lifestyle Fit
Chandler and Gilbert offer a similar suburban lifestyle with good schools, safe neighborhoods, and easy access to shopping and dining. A few key differences:
- Chandler has more tech employers and jobs in the Price Corridor
- Gilbert averages about 2°F cooler than Chandler in the summer
- Chandler offers a shorter commute to Central Phoenix and Tempe
- Gilbert has more new construction housing
7. Frequently Asked Questions
Is Chandler more affordable than Gilbert?
Yes, Chandler has a lower overall cost of living than Gilbert by about 4%, mainly due to cheaper housing costs.
Which city has lower rent?
Chandler has slightly lower rental rates, with a typical 2BR apartment costing $1,650/month vs $1,720/month in Gilbert.
Where is it cheaper to buy a home?
Chandler has a lower median home price of $450,000 for a 3BR compared to $475,000 in Gilbert, a 5% difference.
8. Conclusion
While the cost of living is similar between Chandler and Gilbert, Chandler comes out slightly ahead for overall affordability. Housing costs are the main differentiator, with Chandler offering lower prices whether renting or buying.
Chandler may be the better fit for commuters and those wanting to keep housing costs down, while Gilbert offers more new construction and a family-friendly vibe. To dive deeper, check out these Monthly Budget Examples for Chandler Residents or our full Cost of Living in Chandler (2025 Guide).