Thinking of relocating to Goodyear, Arizona? This fast-growing Phoenix suburb offers attractive amenities and a relaxed suburban lifestyle, but understanding the cost of living is essential before making the move. Below, we break down all the key affordability metrics, from housing and rent to utilities and income.
Overall Cost of Living Overview
Goodyear ranks among the top 10% of the most expensive cities globally. For a single person, average monthly expenses including rent are about $2,481, while without rent it’s approximately $843 per month.
Cost comparisons from top sources:
- PayScale: Goodyear’s cost of living is 16% above the U.S. average.
- BestPlaces: Index score 113, meaning about 13% higher than the national average.
- AreaVibes: Roughly 20% higher than the Arizona average and 21% higher than the U.S. average.
Goodyear, Arizona Housing Prices
Housing is the biggest contributor to Goodyear’s elevated cost of living, largely due to strong demand and new suburban developments with modern amenities.
Key housing stats:
- Median home price: ~$458,100 (BestPlaces), about 35.5% more than the U.S. average ($338,100).
- Typical suburban home: ~$2,809/m² or roughly $280,900 for 100 m², per LivingCost.org.
Average Rent in Goodyear, AZ
Rent prices vary depending on the neighborhood but remain notably above national averages.
Rental cost insights:
- BestPlaces: Average two-bedroom rent ≈ $2,130/month (≈49% higher than U.S. average).
- IndexYard (2025 estimate): Around $1,600/month for a two-bedroom unit, showing differences across sources and areas.
Utilities and Monthly Expenses in Goodyear, AZ
Because of Goodyear’s hot desert climate, utilities, especially cooling, can be a significant cost.
Average monthly utilities:
- Electricity: ~$150–$250 per month for an apartment.
- Water, sewer & trash: ~$60–$80 combined.
Groceries and essentials:
- Groceries are about 3% higher than the U.S. average (PayScale).
- Example prices (LivingCost.org):
- Milk (1 L): ~$0.91
- Bread (0.5 kg): ~$3.22
- Chicken breast (1 kg): ~$12.60
Income and Budget Recommendations
Incomes in Goodyear generally align with its elevated costs.
Median household income:
- IndexYard: ~$97,307
- LocalObserverDaily: ~$85,217
Estimated income needs:
- Single adult: $2,250–$3,300/month gross income
- Family of four: $5,000+/month for basic living expenses (housing, food, transport, healthcare)
While higher than average, Goodyear’s income levels typically allow residents to sustain comfortable suburban lifestyles, with careful budgeting, especially for housing and utilities.
Cost of Living Comparison: Goodyear vs. U.S. Average
| Expense Category | % Difference vs. U.S. Average | Source |
| Housing | ~47% higher | PayScale |
| Utilities | ~7% higher | PayScale |
| Groceries | ~3% higher | PayScale |
| Healthcare | ~5% lower | PayScale |
Summary: While Goodyear is costlier than many U.S. cities, essentials like healthcare remain comparatively affordable.
Relocation Considerations
Despite elevated expenses, Goodyear’s quality of life makes it a desirable place to live. Residents enjoy modern housing, expanding infrastructure, and close access to Phoenix amenities.
Smart relocation tips:
- Choose older homes or areas farther from central developments to reduce housing costs.
- Consider transportation expenses, many residents commute, and public transit options are limited.
For a smooth move, coordinate logistics with a Moving Company in Goodyear AZ familiar with local neighborhoods and housing layouts.
Conclusion
Goodyear, AZ provides a vibrant, family-friendly suburban environment with strong community appeal. However, its cost of living, especially for housing and energy, runs above average.
By understanding the city’s financial landscape and planning strategically, new residents can balance affordability with quality of life. Whether moving for work, family, or lifestyle, Goodyear remains one of Arizona’s most desirable yet cost-conscious destinations.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Yes, Goodyear’s cost of living is about 13–20% above the national average, placing it among the more expensive Phoenix suburbs.
The median home price is around $458,100, which is roughly 35% higher than the U.S. average.
A typical two-bedroom apartment ranges from $1,600 to $2,130 per month depending on the neighborhood and source.
Utilities can be higher due to the desert climate, with electricity often ranging from $150–$250 per month.
A single adult typically needs $2,250–$3,300 in gross income per month to cover basic living expenses.
Groceries are around 3% higher than the U.S. average, though individual items may vary slightly.
Healthcare costs are about 5% lower than the national average, making it one of the more affordable expense categories.
Most individuals and families find comfort with incomes aligning near the city’s median household range of $85,000–$97,000.
Strong demand, rapid development, and newer suburban communities contribute to elevated housing costs.
Choosing older neighborhoods, budgeting for utilities, and working with a local moving company familiar with Goodyear can help manage expenses.
