Side-by-side cost of living comparison for 2026
7% cheaper
Phoenix is 7% more affordable than Springfield. A $75,000 salary in Springfield is equivalent to $70,093 in Phoenix.
Index values shown. National average = 100. Lower is cheaper.
To maintain the same standard of living:
See exact take-home pay: Arizona salaries · Massachusetts salaries
Housing is typically the biggest factor in any cost-of-living comparison. Phoenix has a housing index of 102 while Springfield sits at 106 (national average = 100). The median home in Phoenix costs $350,000 compared to $230,000 in Springfield, a difference of $120,000. Monthly rent follows a similar pattern: $1,400 in Phoenix versus $1,200 in Springfield.
Groceries and everyday expenses show a notable difference: Phoenix scores 99 while Springfield scores 104. Both cities are close to the national average for grocery costs.
Healthcare costs in Phoenix (95) are lower than Springfield (114).
Median household income in Phoenix is $57,459 compared to $41,612 in Springfield. When adjusted for cost of living, income goes further in Phoenix.
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