Seattle, Washington vs Phoenix, Arizona (2026)
PNW→desert relocation: both metros have strong tech and construction job bases. 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: Phoenix runs about $5,444 less than Seattle in rent + state income tax (tax: $2,500 more; rent: $7,944 less). One-time move cost differs by about $329 (Seattle higher).
| Line | Seattle | Phoenix |
|---|---|---|
| Local move (model, 2-BR) | $759–$2,672 | $613–$2,161 |
| 2-BR HUD FY2026 FMR | $2501/mo | $1839/mo |
| State income tax (top marginal) | 0.0% | 2.5% |
| Rent over 12 mo | $30,012 | $22,068 |
| Tax on $100,000 over 12 mo | $0 | $2,500 |
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 | Seattle | Phoenix | Yearly difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Local move (model) | $759–$2,672 | $613–$2,161 | one-time |
| 2-BR rent (HUD FY2026 FMR) | $2501/mo | $1839/mo | $-7,944/yr |
| State income tax (top marginal, $100K) | 0.0% | 2.5% | $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
Seattle to Phoenix corridor guide → · Washington moving guide → · Arizona moving guide → · All state guides →