Uprootmap
Topeka vs Phoenix
Topeka and Phoenix
Photo: Wikimedia, Public domain
Assumed income $83,730, same in both cities. Example, until you change it.
Other cities
So you know: homicide deaths in Phoenix are close to the US rate in this release, 6.6 versus 6.5 per 100,000. CDC via County Health Rankings, CDC NVSS 2017–2023 (CHR 2025 release).
Why people look at Topeka to Phoenix
In 2022-2023, 29 households filed a move from Topeka to Phoenix (about 39 people, average adjusted gross income $57,069). 29 households went the other way. Source: IRS migration.
A one-bedroom asking rent is about $1,022 in Topeka and $1,277 in Phoenix. Topeka has a state tax on wages. Phoenix has a state tax on wages. Local pay in Phoenix is 97% of the national level for the same work, against 93% in Topeka.
Phoenix averages 299 sunny days, with July highs around 106°F and January nights around 46°F. Topeka is 223 sunny days, 88°F in July, 22°F in January. Commutes average 26 minutes in Phoenix and 20 in Topeka.
These figures are projections built from available public data. Conditions change, and the numbers may not reflect current prices, taxes, or immigration rules. Check official sources before you make decisions.
Who already made this move
In 2022-2023, 29 households moved Topeka → Phoenix (about 39 people, average AGI $57,069). 29 households went the other way.
Source: IRS SOI county-to-county migration. Not a moving company; not a recommendation.
The monthly number is take-home pay minus rent and the other bills. The gap between Topeka and Phoenix changes with the job, remote or local pay, and bedrooms. How we figure this.
What the move itself costs
About 1,190 road miles, 1 bedroom. Typical ranges, not quotes.
- Full-service mover
- $2,900–$5,400
- Container or pod
- $2,050–$3,800
- Rent a truck
- $1,150–$2,150
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Dig into Phoenix
Questions
Is Phoenix cheaper than Topeka after tax and rent?
No. Phoenix leaves about $253 less a month, so the cost of living is higher there for this household. A one-bedroom is about $1,022 in Topeka and $1,277 in Phoenix.
Does Phoenix have state income tax?
Phoenix is in Arizona, which taxes wage income.
Did people actually move from Topeka to Phoenix?
Yes, when the IRS published that flow. The count and their average income are on this page. Leftover prices the same household in both cities.