Scottsdale, AZ vs. Gilbert, AZ: Cost of Living Comparison (2025)
This article provides a cost of living comparison: Scottsdale vs Gilbert. It is perfect for families relocating, professionals choosing between job offers, or anyone comparing the real-life cost of Scottsdale vs Gilbert in 2025.
1. Housing Costs
Housing is typically the biggest factor in cost of living. Here’s how Scottsdale and Gilbert stack up for common housing options:
| Housing Type | Scottsdale | Gilbert |
|---|---|---|
| Median 2BR Apartment Rent | $2,100 | $1,800 |
| Median 3BR House Price | $750,000 | $550,000 |
🏆 Winner: Gilbert. Housing costs an estimated 15-25% less in Gilbert compared to Scottsdale.
2. Utilities and Energy Costs
Utility costs are fairly similar between the two Phoenix suburbs. Expect to pay around $200 per month for a 2BR apartment in either city. Key differences:
- Gilbert offers a slightly wider range of utility providers
- Scottsdale has more green energy options like solar
🏆 Winner: Tie. Utility costs are comparable between Scottsdale and Gilbert.
3. Groceries and Daily Expenses
Groceries, gas, and everyday items cost about the same in Scottsdale and Gilbert. One notable difference: dining out. Restaurant prices trend 10-15% higher in Scottsdale, especially for upscale options.
🏆 Winner: Gilbert has the edge for more affordable dining out.
4. Taxes and Fees
Scottsdale and Gilbert have fairly similar tax rates:
- Property taxes: 0.5-0.7% in both cities
- Sales tax: 7.6% (Scottsdale) vs 7.8% (Gilbert)
- HOA fees: $200-400/mo is typical for both
🏆 Winner: Tie. Taxes and fees are comparable between the two cities.
5. Cost Summary Table
| Category | Scottsdale | Gilbert |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | $2,100 | $1,800 |
| Utilities | $200 | $200 |
| Groceries | $400 | $400 |
| Transportation | $150 | $150 |
| Taxes | $500 | $450 |
| Misc | $650 | $500 |
| Estimated Monthly Total | $4,000 in Scottsdale | $3,500 in Gilbert |
6. Lifestyle Fit
While Gilbert offers savings on housing and dining out, Scottsdale has its perks too:
- Scottsdale is more walkable, with shops, parks and amenities clustered in neighborhoods.
- Gilbert offers more space for the money, with larger homes and lots.
- Both suburbs have top-rated school districts and family-friendly amenities.
7. FAQ
- Is Scottsdale more affordable than Gilbert? Gilbert has lower housing costs and more affordable dining, giving it an overall edge. See our full Cost of Living in Scottsdale (2025 Guide).
- Which city has lower rent? Rent prices are an estimated 15% lower in Gilbert compared to Scottsdale.
- Where is it cheaper to buy a home? Gilbert offers more affordable home prices, with the median 3BR around $550,000 compared to $750,000 in Scottsdale.
8. Conclusion
Gilbert comes out ahead for overall affordability, thanks to lower housing costs and less expensive dining. It’s a great fit for families looking for more space on a budget. However, Scottsdale’s walkability and amenities still make it attractive for those willing to spend a bit more. Compare Monthly Budget Examples for Scottsdale Residents to see typical spending breakdowns.
Scottsdale, AZ vs. Gilbert, AZ: Cost of Living Comparison (2025)
This article provides a cost of living comparison: Scottsdale vs Gilbert. It is perfect for families relocating, professionals choosing between job offers, or anyone comparing the real-life cost of Scottsdale vs Gilbert in 2025.
1. Housing Costs
Housing is typically the biggest factor in cost of living. Here’s how Scottsdale and Gilbert stack up for common housing options:
| Housing Type | Scottsdale | Gilbert |
|---|---|---|
| Median 2BR Apartment Rent | $2,100 | $1,800 |
| Median 3BR House Price | $750,000 | $550,000 |
🏆 Winner: Gilbert. Housing costs an estimated 15-25% less in Gilbert compared to Scottsdale.
2. Utilities and Energy Costs
Utility costs are fairly similar between the two Phoenix suburbs. Expect to pay around $200 per month for a 2BR apartment in either city. Key differences:
- Gilbert offers a slightly wider range of utility providers
- Scottsdale has more green energy options like solar
🏆 Winner: Tie. Utility costs are comparable between Scottsdale and Gilbert.
3. Groceries and Daily Expenses
Groceries, gas, and everyday items cost about the same in Scottsdale and Gilbert. One notable difference: dining out. Restaurant prices trend 10-15% higher in Scottsdale, especially for upscale options.
🏆 Winner: Gilbert has the edge for more affordable dining out.
4. Taxes and Fees
Scottsdale and Gilbert have fairly similar tax rates:
- Property taxes: 0.5-0.7% in both cities
- Sales tax: 7.6% (Scottsdale) vs 7.8% (Gilbert)
- HOA fees: $200-400/mo is typical for both
🏆 Winner: Tie. Taxes and fees are comparable between the two cities.
5. Cost Summary Table
| Category | Scottsdale | Gilbert |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | $2,100 | $1,800 |
| Utilities | $200 | $200 |
| Groceries | $400 | $400 |
| Transportation | $150 | $150 |
| Taxes | $500 | $450 |
| Misc | $650 | $500 |
| Estimated Monthly Total | $4,000 in Scottsdale | $3,500 in Gilbert |
6. Lifestyle Fit
While Gilbert offers savings on housing and dining out, Scottsdale has its perks too:
- Scottsdale is more walkable, with shops, parks and amenities clustered in neighborhoods.
- Gilbert offers more space for the money, with larger homes and lots.
- Both suburbs have top-rated school districts and family-friendly amenities.
7. FAQ
- Is Scottsdale more affordable than Gilbert? Gilbert has lower housing costs and more affordable dining, giving it an overall edge. See our full Cost of Living in Scottsdale (2025 Guide).
- Which city has lower rent? Rent prices are an estimated 15% lower in Gilbert compared to Scottsdale.
- Where is it cheaper to buy a home? Gilbert offers more affordable home prices, with the median 3BR around $550,000 compared to $750,000 in Scottsdale.
8. Conclusion
Gilbert comes out ahead for overall affordability, thanks to lower housing costs and less expensive dining. It’s a great fit for families looking for more space on a budget. However, Scottsdale’s walkability and amenities still make it attractive for those willing to spend a bit more. Compare Monthly Budget Examples for Scottsdale Residents to see typical spending breakdowns.