Side-by-side cost of living comparison for 2026
12% cheaper
Phoenix is 12% more affordable than Stockton. A $75,000 salary in Stockton is equivalent to $65,789 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 · California salaries
Housing is typically the biggest factor in any cost-of-living comparison. Phoenix has a housing index of 102 while Stockton sits at 126 (national average = 100). The median home in Phoenix costs $350,000 compared to $400,000 in Stockton, a difference of $50,000. Monthly rent follows a similar pattern: $1,400 in Phoenix versus $1,500 in Stockton.
Groceries and everyday expenses show a narrower gap: Phoenix scores 99 while Stockton scores 101. Both cities are close to the national average for grocery costs.
Healthcare costs in Phoenix (95) are lower than Stockton (101). Both are close to the national average.
Median household income in Phoenix is $57,459 compared to $54,658 in Stockton. When adjusted for cost of living, income goes further in Phoenix.
Amazon affiliate links