Cost of living in Prescott
Housing dominates the math
Median home in Prescott proper has run high $500,000s to low $600,000s. Prescott Valley around $440,000 to $510,000. Rentals tighter than Phoenix; one-bedroom apartments $1,400 to $1,800 typical.
Utilities
Electric, gas, and water run near U.S. average. APS and Unisource handle electric. SouthWest Gas covers gas. Water is municipal in city limits.
Groceries
Near U.S. average. Fry's, Safeway, Trader Joe's, Sprouts, and Costco (in Prescott Valley) cover most needs.
Healthcare
Average for the region. YRMC and most insurance networks operate locally.
Taxes
Arizona state income tax runs lower than California, Colorado, or Oregon. Property taxes lower than most retirement states. Sales tax around 9 percent in city limits.
Compared to Phoenix
Housing about 10 percent higher in Prescott proper, 5 percent lower in Prescott Valley. Most other categories within 5 percent. Climate premium is real.
Frequently asked
Is Prescott expensive?+
Above U.S. average, mostly from housing. Other categories near average.
Cheaper than Phoenix?+
Comparable. Housing slightly higher in Prescott proper, similar overall.
Cheaper than California?+
Significantly. Housing and taxes both lower.
Property taxes?+
Below most retirement states. Arizona's effective rate is moderate.
Median rent?+
$1,400 to $1,800 for a one-bedroom; $2,000 to $2,800 for a two-bedroom.
Costco available?+
Yes, in Prescott Valley.
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