Is It More Expensive to Live in Prescott, AZ Than Phoenix? Here's My Honest Take

If you're thinking about moving from Phoenix to Prescott, one of the first questions you're probably asking is whether it costs more to live here.

I'm going to be honest with you. Prescott isn't necessarily the cheaper option, especially when it comes to buying a home. But there are some pretty big differences between living here and living in the valley, and I think it's worth looking at the whole picture before deciding whether a move makes sense for you.

I live here with my husband and our two kids, and as a Realtor who helps people relocate to the Prescott area, I get to see both sides of this conversation all the time. So let's talk about what you can actually expect.

Home Prices: Prescott vs. Phoenix

Let's start with the big one: buying a house.

As a general market snapshot, Phoenix's median home sale price was approximately $450,000 compared with approximately $600,000 in Prescott. That's about a $150,000 difference.

Here's where I think it's important to look past just the difference between the median price points. Prescott has such a huge range of homes. We have historic downtown properties, established neighborhoods with mature trees, homes tucked into the pines, properties with larger lots and mountain views, HOA and golf communities, gated communities and more.

So, truth be told, depending on what you're looking for, there are a ton of variables to consider.

This is something I love chatting with people about before we even look at homes. Lifestyle is so important, and I think it's a major question to answer before we can find the right home. (If you want a head start, my Prescott communities guide breaks down the different areas.)

Summer Cooling: Those "Let's Open the Windows" Days

One of my favorite things about Prescott summers is waking up, opening the sliding door and feeling that crisp morning air.

If you've lived in Phoenix through the summer, you know how much you rely on your AC... like all day and all night for months on end. Here in Prescott, our higher elevation gives us cooler mornings and evenings, and we get more opportunities to enjoy that fresh air!

Of course, it still gets hot here, and yes, I love me some AC. But our cooler mornings and evenings are a big part of what I love about living here.

Will your electric bill automatically be cheaper? Not necessarily. It depends on your house, insulation, cooling system and how you use it. But the difference in temperatures can change how often you need to run your AC, and that's worth considering when you're comparing the two areas.

Winter Heating: Yes, We Actually Have Winter Here

This is one thing I always want people moving from Phoenix to understand. We have four seasons here, and winter is definitely one of them!

We get cold mornings, freezing temperatures and yes, even snow! You'll want a good heating system, and your winter utility bills are something to factor into your budget.

But one thing you'll notice when looking at homes around Prescott is how many have real wood-burning fireplaces. I love that about this area. I find it fascinating that a lot of homeowners use their fireplaces regularly, and some even use them as their primary heat source despite having central heating!

If a fireplace is high on your list, I'd pay attention to whether it's wood-burning or gas, how well it's been maintained, and whether it's actually designed to heat the space the way you want it to (or is more for the cozy vibe). You'll also want to consider the cost of firewood and fireplace maintenance.

Getting Around: Freeways vs. Smaller City Streets

This is another difference you'll notice pretty quickly.

When I think of Phoenix, I think of one highway to the next, traffic no matter what time of day, and having to plan your day around how long it will take to get from place to place.

Prescott feels so different. Most of our everyday driving happens on local streets, and the closest thing we have to a "freeway" is Highway 69 or 89. If you've ever driven on them, I know you'll say they have quite a different feel than what you experience in Phoenix.

Okay, one thing to note: I'm definitely not going to say we don't have traffic here. We have busy intersections, congestion around shopping areas, and traffic during major events (it's not uncommon to see downtown blocked off on summer weekends). But compared to what you experience in Phoenix, it's very different, and I know, because I lived in Phoenix too.

The overall driving experience just feels different from Phoenix: smaller roads, more stop signs, less 75 mph... and more 35 mph!

So, Is Prescott Worth the Extra Cost?

For my family, absolutely. But I also know it's not going to be the right fit for everyone.

I love the pine trees, the mountain views, the cooler summer mornings, and being able to get outside and explore. I love that we experience four seasons and that our everyday life feels a little different from the hustle and bustle of the valley.

But there are pros and cons for sure.

We don't have all the shopping, entertainment, and specialized services or companies you'll find in Phoenix. Depending on what you need, you may find yourself heading down to the valley for certain appointments, shopping trips or activities.

And if you're moving with kids, I'd definitely look into local sports, activities and programs before making the move. There's plenty to explore outdoors, but the options aren't the same as in a larger metro area.

I think the biggest mistake is assuming Prescott will be better or cheaper in every way. It won't. What it can offer is a different lifestyle, and for some of us, that's worth a lot.

For me, it's about what our everyday life looks like here, not just what the numbers say on paper.

What I'd Look at Before Making the Move

If you're comparing Prescott and Phoenix, here's what I'd want you to look at beyond the purchase price:

• Your monthly payment: What can you comfortably afford in the areas you're considering?
• Utilities: Ask about the home's heating and cooling systems, and review utility history when available.
• Your commute: Map out the places you'll drive to regularly, including work, school and appointments.
• Your lifestyle: Think about the amenities, activities and conveniences you use most often, and whether you'll find what you need locally.

There's no one-size-fits-all answer to the cost of living in Prescott versus Phoenix. It really comes down to your budget, the home you want and what matters most to you.

Thinking About Moving to Prescott?

If you're starting to consider a move, I'm happy to help you sort through the details.

I work with buyers relocating to Prescott, Prescott Valley, Chino Valley, Dewey and the surrounding areas. I can help you compare neighborhoods, get a realistic picture of home prices, and figure out which areas make the most sense for your budget and the way you want to live.

I'm not here to tell you Prescott is perfect. I'm here to help you understand what living here is actually like so you can decide if it's right for you.

If you're thinking about making the move, reach out. Tell me what you're looking for, what your budget looks like and what you're hoping life will look like here. We'll take it from there.

Dusty Tillery | W & Partners
Helping you find your place in Prescott, Arizona.