Glendale, AZ vs. Peoria, AZ: Cost of Living Comparison (2025)
Glendale residents pay nearly $200 less per month in housing costs compared to their neighbors in Peoria. This article provides a detailed cost of living comparison between Glendale and nearby Peoria, perfect for families relocating to the Phoenix area, professionals choosing between job offers, or anyone comparing the real cost of living in these two suburbs in 2025.
1. Housing Costs
Housing is the biggest factor in the cost of living difference between Glendale and Peoria. Here’s how typical rental and purchase prices compare:
| Housing Type | Glendale | Peoria |
|---|---|---|
| 2BR Apartment Rent | $1,350 | $1,475 |
| 3BR House Mortgage | $1,950 | $2,150 |
| Median Home Price | $375,000 | $415,000 |
🏆 Winner: Glendale. Housing costs are about 10% lower across the board in Glendale compared to Peoria.
2. Utilities and Energy Costs
Utility costs are fairly similar between the two cities, with Glendale coming out slightly ahead:
- In Glendale, expect to pay around $180/month for electricity, gas, water, and trash service for a 2BR apartment.
- In Peoria, the same utilities average $195/month.
- Both cities charge more in the summer due to air conditioning use, with winter bills dropping by about 30%.
🏆 Winner: Glendale, but only by a small margin of about $15/month in savings.
3. Groceries and Daily Expenses
Grocery costs are nearly identical in Glendale and Peoria. Expect to spend around $350-$400 per month on food and household items for a single person, or $800-$1000 for a family of four. Restaurant prices are also comparable, with a typical meal out costing $12-15 per person in either city.
🏆 Winner: Tie. There’s no significant cost difference for groceries and daily living between Glendale and Peoria.
4. Taxes and Fees
Both Glendale and Peoria have relatively low property taxes compared to other parts of the country, but Glendale comes out ahead:
- Glendale’s property tax rate is 0.802%, or $3,008 per year on a $375K home
- Peoria’s property tax rate is 0.889%, or $3,690 per year on a $415K home
- HOA fees in both cities typically range from $30-$50/month and often include amenities like pools and landscaping
🏆 Winner: Glendale. Lower home values combined with a lower tax rate give Glendale the advantage.
5. Cost Summary
| Cost Category | Glendale | Peoria |
|---|---|---|
| Housing (3BR mortgage) | $1,950 | $2,150 |
| Utilities | $180 | $195 |
| Groceries | $400 | $400 |
| Transportation | $60 | $60 |
| Taxes (property) | $251 | $308 |
| Misc | $250 | $250 |
| Estimated Monthly Total | $3,091 | $3,363 |
Note: The above figures represent gross monthly costs and pre-tax income required to support that standard of living.
6. Lifestyle Fit
While Glendale is more affordable overall, Peoria has some lifestyle advantages that may be worth the extra cost for some people:
- Peoria is slightly less densely populated, with more spacious lots and a suburban feel
- Peoria is more walkable, with a Walk Score of 35 compared to Glendale’s 28
- Glendale averages 2°F cooler than Peoria in the peak of summer
- Peoria offers more public transportation options, with multiple bus lines and a transit center
7. FAQ
Is Glendale more affordable than Peoria? Yes, Glendale is about 8% cheaper than Peoria overall, thanks to lower housing, utility, and tax costs.
Which city has lower rent? Glendale rents are around 10% lower than Peoria. Expect to pay $1,350 for a 2BR apartment in Glendale compared to $1,475 in Peoria.
Where is it cheaper to buy a home? Glendale homes are about 10% less expensive than Peoria. The median price in Glendale is $375,000 vs $415,000 in Peoria.
8. Conclusion
Glendale offers a lower cost of living overall compared to nearby Peoria, primarily due to more affordable housing. A household moving from Peoria to Glendale might save $200-$300 per month on housing and utilities alone. However, Peoria may still be worth the extra cost for those who value a more suburban lifestyle, walkability, and public transit.
To see how your budget stacks up in Glendale, check out these monthly budget examples for Glendale residents. Or for a full breakdown of expenses, see the Glendale cost of living guide for 2025.