Phoenix, Arizona vs Austin, Texas (2026)
Two of the fastest-growing metros in the U.S.; nearly identical rent baselines. Figures use public data: HUD FY2026 Fair Market Rents, Tax Foundation 2026 rates, and ReloFig's transparent moving model (BLS/EIA).
Personalize the comparison
Over 12 months at $100,000/yr: Austin runs about $2,344 less than Phoenix in rent + state income tax (tax: $2,500 less; rent: $156 more). One-time move cost differs by about $194 (Phoenix higher).
| Line | Phoenix | Austin |
|---|---|---|
| Local move (model, 2-BR) | $613–$2,161 | $527–$1,859 |
| 2-BR HUD FY2026 FMR | $1839/mo | $1852/mo |
| State income tax (top marginal) | 2.5% | 0.0% |
| Rent over 12 mo | $22,068 | $22,224 |
| Tax on $100,000 over 12 mo | $2,500 | $0 |
Model estimates only — rent uses HUD FMR (40th percentile), tax uses top-marginal rates (Tax Foundation 2026). Your actual rent and effective rate will differ.
Cost line items (2-bedroom basis)
| Item | Phoenix | Austin | Yearly difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Local move (model) | $613–$2,161 | $527–$1,859 | one-time |
| 2-BR rent (HUD FY2026 FMR) | $1839/mo | $1852/mo | $156/yr |
| State income tax (top marginal, $100K) | 2.5% | 0.0% | $2,500/yr |
HUD FMRs are 40th-percentile gross rent benchmarks (huduser.gov). Tax rates are top-marginal (Tax Foundation 2026); your effective rate differs. Move figures are model estimates, not quotes.
Dive deeper
Phoenix to Austin corridor guide → · Arizona moving guide → · Texas moving guide → · All state guides →