Glendale, AZ vs. Phoenix, AZ: Cost of Living Comparison (2025)
This article provides a cost of living comparison: Glendale vs Phoenix. It is perfect for families relocating, professionals choosing between job offers, or anyone comparing the real-life cost of Glendale vs Phoenix in 2025.
Housing Costs
Housing is one of the biggest factors in the cost of living difference between Glendale and Phoenix. Here’s how typical rent and mortgage costs compare:
| Housing Type | Glendale | Phoenix |
|---|---|---|
| Median 2BR Apartment Rent | $1,450 | $1,650 |
| Median 3BR Home Price | $380,000 | $450,000 |
🏆 Winner: Glendale. Housing costs an estimated 12-15% less in Glendale compared to Phoenix.
Utilities and Energy Costs
Utility costs are fairly similar between the two cities, with Glendale coming out slightly ahead. Typical monthly utility bills for a 2BR apartment:
- Glendale: $180-$220
- Phoenix: $200-$240
Both cities experience hot summers, so expect higher AC usage and electric bills from June through September. Some utility providers offer off-peak pricing plans.
🏆 Winner: Glendale, but only by a small margin. Utility costs are about 5-10% lower.
Groceries and Daily Expenses
Grocery costs and everyday expenses like dining out are very comparable between Glendale and Phoenix. Expect to pay around:
- $100/week for groceries for a couple
- $12-15 per person for a basic restaurant meal
- $5 for a latte or specialty coffee drink
🏆 Winner: Tie. There are no major cost of living differences for groceries and daily expenses.
Taxes and Fees
Both Glendale and Phoenix have similar property tax rates around 0.6-0.8%. However, some neighborhoods in Glendale have lower HOA fees that can include landscaping and trash service.
Glendale also has slightly lower city service fees for utilities like water and sewer. For a typical household, this can save $5-10/month compared to Phoenix.
🏆 Winner: Glendale, thanks to lower HOA and city service fees in some areas.
Cost Summary Table
| Category | Glendale | Phoenix |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | $1,450 | $1,650 |
| Utilities | $200 | $220 |
| Groceries | $400 | $400 |
| Transportation | $60 | $80 |
| Taxes & Fees | $250 | $280 |
| Misc Expenses | $200 | $200 |
| Estimated Monthly Total | $2,560 | $2,830 |
Lifestyle Fit
The cost savings of living in Glendale can come with some lifestyle tradeoffs compared to Phoenix:
- Longer commute times if working in central Phoenix
- Fewer public transportation options
- More suburban feel with larger yards and lower density
Glendale averages 5°F cooler summer highs than central Phoenix. But both cities still get quite hot!
For a more detailed look at typical expenses, check out these Monthly Budget Examples for Glendale Residents.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Is Glendale more affordable than Phoenix? Yes, the cost of living in Glendale is about 10% lower on average, mainly due to cheaper housing.
- Which city has lower rent? Glendale has lower rent, with a median 2BR apartment costing $1,450 vs $1,650 in Phoenix.
- Where is it cheaper to buy a home? Glendale has a lower median home price of $380,000 for a 3BR compared to $450,000 in Phoenix.
Conclusion
While the cost of living in Glendale is lower than Phoenix, both cities offer a relatively affordable lifestyle. Glendale can be a great fit for those looking for a suburban feel, more space, and lower housing costs. But Phoenix may be worth the premium for those who prioritize shorter commutes, walkability, and urban amenities.
Ultimately, the right choice depends on your personal budget, lifestyle, and preferences. We hope this comparison of the cost of living in Glendale vs Phoenix has been helpful in weighing the options!