Los Angeles vs Phoenix
Side-by-side rent vs buy analysis comparing these two markets
Overall Comparison
Phoenix has an edge
Phoenix edges ahead based on overall market conditions.
Median Home Price
$770,000
Median Rent
$2,850/mo
Price-to-Rent Ratio
22.5
Property Tax Rate
0.73%
Price Change (1Y)BETTER
+5.3%
Price Change (5Y)BETTER
+39.0%
Break-Even Years
13 years
10-Year Wealth Difference
$80,000
Median Home PriceBETTER
$510,000
Median RentBETTER
$2,500/mo
Price-to-Rent RatioBETTER
17.0
Property Tax RateBETTER
0.62%
Price Change (1Y)
+3.3%
Price Change (5Y)
+16.0%
Break-Even YearsBETTER
6 years
10-Year Wealth DifferenceBETTER
$15,000
Key Differences
Home Prices
Los Angeles's median home price of $770,000 is higher than Phoenix's $510,000 by 51%.
Monthly Rent
Renting in Los Angeles costs $2,850/mo compared to $2,500/mo in Phoenix—a difference of $350/mo.
Buy vs Rent Verdict
Los Angeles favors renting, while Phoenix favors either option.
Break-Even Timeline
Buying breaks even in 13 years in Los Angeles vs 6 years in Phoenix.
Run Your Own Numbers
This comparison uses median values. Your income, savings, and goals matter. Use our Buy vs Rent calculator to get a personalized analysis.