đź“Š Lifestyle Match
Visualizing the tradeoffs between Lebanon and Phoenix
Head-to-Head Analysis
Lebanon vs Phoenix
Detailed breakdown of cost of living, income potential, and lifestyle metrics.
đź“‹ The Details
Line-by-line data comparison.
| Category / Metric | Lebanon | Phoenix |
|---|---|---|
| Financial Overview | ||
| Median Income | $92,288 | $79,664 |
| Unemployment Rate | 3% | 4.1% |
| Housing Market | ||
| Median Home Price | $512,000 | $457,000 |
| Price per SqFt | $244 | $278 |
| Monthly Rent (1BR) | $1,471 | $1,599 |
| Housing Cost Index | 125.3 | 124.3 |
| Cost of Living | ||
| Groceries Index | 106.8 | 98.4 |
| Gas Price (Gallon) | $3.40 | $3.40 |
| Safety & Lifestyle | ||
| Violent Crime (per 100k) | 146.4 | 691.8 |
| Bachelor's Degree+ | 56.4% | 33.5% |
| Air Quality (AQI) | 34 | 39 |
Expert Verdict
AI-generated analysis based on current data.
Phoenix vs. Lebanon: The Ultimate Head-to-Head Showdown
You’ve narrowed it down to two cities that are worlds apart. On one side, you have Phoenix, Arizona—a sprawling, sun-drenched metropolis in the heart of the Sonoran Desert. On the other, Lebanon, New Hampshire—a quaint, historic town nestled in the scenic Upper Valley of New England.
This isn’t just a choice between a big city and a small town. It’s a choice between two completely different ways of life, climates, and economic realities. Are you chasing the hustle and bustle of a booming metro area, or the quiet, four-season charm of a tight-knit community?
Let’s cut through the fluff and get right to the data. As a relocation expert, my job is to give you the unvarnished truth. We’ll break down the costs, the housing, the quality of life, and ultimately, who wins each category.
The Vibe Check: Desert Metro vs. New England Charm
Phoenix is the definition of "go big or go home." It’s the 5th most populous city in the U.S., with a population of 1.65 million. The culture is fast-paced, diverse, and built around the outdoors—just a different kind of outdoors. Think sprawling suburbs, world-class golf courses, a booming tech and healthcare scene, and a nightlife that pulses until the early morning. It’s a city for those who want endless options: restaurants, sports teams (Suns, Cardinals, Diamondbacks), and a sense that things are always moving forward. The vibe is sun-bleached, ambitious, and unapologetically modern.
Lebanon, with its population of just 14,759, is the polar opposite. This is a "slow living" town. It’s the kind of place where the local co-op is the social hub, the historic Main Street has brick sidewalks, and the pace of life is dictated by the seasons. The culture is deeply rooted in community, higher education (thanks to nearby Dartmouth College), and healthcare (it’s home to the renowned Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center). It’s a town for those who value quiet, safety, and a deep connection to nature—hiking the Appalachian Trail in the fall or skiing at a local mountain in the winter. The vibe is cozy, intellectual, and deeply rooted in New England history.
Who is each city for?
- Phoenix is for the go-getter who craves anonymity, sunshine, and big-city amenities without the coastal price tag. It’s for young professionals, growing families who need space, and retirees who want to golf year-round.
- Lebanon is for the person who prioritizes safety, community, and four-season beauty. It’s for families who want top-tier public schools, outdoor enthusiasts, and those who don’t mind a quiet night in.
The Dollar Power: Where Does Your Salary Stretch Furthest?
This is where the rubber meets the road. We’re not just looking at raw numbers; we’re looking at purchasing power. Let’s assume a median household income of $100,000 to see how it feels in each place.
| Category | Phoenix, AZ | Lebanon, NH | The Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median Home Price | $457,000 | $512,000 | Phoenix |
| Median Rent (1BR) | $1,599 | $1,471 | Lebanon |
| Housing Index | 124.3 | 125.3 | Phoenix |
| Median Income | $79,664 | 92,288 | Lebanon |
| Violent Crime (per 100k) | 691.8 | 146.4 | Lebanon |
| Avg. High Temp (July) | ~105°F | ~80°F | Lebanon |
Salary Wars & The Tax Twist:
At first glance, Lebanon’s higher median income ($92,288 vs. Phoenix’s $79,664) seems like a win. But here’s the critical, deal-breaking detail: New Hampshire has no state income tax on wages, but it has some of the nation’s highest property taxes. Arizona has a modest state income tax (2.59% flat rate) but lower property taxes.
This changes everything. If you earn $100,000 in Phoenix, you’re paying about $2,590 in state income tax. In New Hampshire, you pay $0. That’s a $2,590 annual savings right off the bat. However, that savings can get swallowed by New Hampshire's property taxes, which are roughly 1.9% of a home's value. On a $500,000 home, that’s $9,500 per year. In Arizona, the average property tax rate is about 0.6%, which would be $3,000 on the same home. That’s a $6,500 annual difference.
The Verdict on Purchasing Power: For a homeowner, Phoenix offers significantly more bang for your buck. The combination of a lower median home price and much lower property taxes means your $100,000 salary will stretch much further. You can afford a nicer house or have more disposable income. For renters, the difference is less stark, but Lebanon’s slightly cheaper rent is a minor perk.
The Housing Market: Buy, Rent, or Wait?
Phoenix: This is a seller’s market, but it’s cooling. Post-pandemic, Phoenix saw a massive price surge, and while it’s stabilized, inventory remains tight. The median home price of $457,000 is deceptive; desirable suburbs like Scottsdale or Gilbert can easily push you over $600k. Renters face intense competition, but the rental market is more fluid than the for-sale market. If you’re looking to buy, be prepared for bidding wars on well-priced homes.
Lebanon: This is a hyper-competitive buyer’s market. Inventory is perpetually low, and the median home price of $512,000 is misleading because the market is bifurcated. You can find a historic, fixer-upper for under $400k or a modern family home for $700k+. The real challenge is availability. Homes sell in days, often with multiple offers over asking price. The rental market is equally brutal; long-term rentals are scarce because many properties are used as short-term vacation rentals for tourists visiting the nearby ski resorts and foliage season.
The Verdict: If you need to move quickly and want more selection, Phoenix has more inventory and a slightly more manageable (though still competitive) market. Lebanon requires patience, flexibility, and potentially a willingness to commute from a neighboring town.
The Dealbreakers: Traffic, Weather, and Safety
Traffic & Commute
- Phoenix: Brutal. The city is a vast, car-dependent sprawl. Commute times can be long, and traffic on the I-10, Loop 101, and I-17 is notoriously heavy. Public transit (Valley Metro) exists but is limited. You will own a car, and you will drive.
- Lebanon: Minimal. A 10-minute drive can get you across town. The biggest "traffic" is the occasional tractor or a line of cars during leaf-peeping season. It’s a walkable/bikeable town, and commuting to nearby Hanover or White River Junction is a breeze.
Weather: A Tale of Two Extremes
- Phoenix: This is the #1 dealbreaker for many. Summers are brutal and long. Average highs in July are 105°F, but they routinely hit 110°F+. The heat is dry but relentless. You will live indoors from May to September. Winters are mild and sunny (average high of 65°F), which is a huge draw for snowbirds. There is no snow to speak of.
- Lebanon: Four distinct seasons. Summers are warm and pleasant (avg. high 80°F). Fall is spectacular with vibrant foliage. Winters are cold and snowy (avg. high 32°F), with a solid snowpack that lasts. This is a true winter wonderland, but you must be prepared for snow removal, icy roads, and seasonal affective disorder. Spring is muddy but welcome.
Crime & Safety
- Phoenix: Significantly higher crime. The violent crime rate is 691.8 per 100,000, which is well above the national average. Property crime is also a concern. Safety varies drastically by neighborhood; some suburbs are very safe, while parts of the urban core have higher crime rates.
- Lebanon: Extremely safe. The violent crime rate is 146.4 per 100,000, which is far below the national average. It’s the kind of town where people don’t lock their doors (though we wouldn’t recommend it). This is a massive point in its favor for families and retirees.
The Final Verdict: Who Wins This Showdown?
This isn’t about one city being objectively “better.” It’s about which city is the right fit for you. Here’s the breakdown.
Winner for Families: Lebanon
Why: Safety is paramount. The crime stats are undeniable. Combined with excellent public schools (a hallmark of the Upper Valley), a strong sense of community, and abundant outdoor activities for kids, Lebanon provides a nurturing environment. While the cost of living is high, the quality-of-life benefits for a family are immense. The only strike is the competitive housing market.
Winner for Singles & Young Professionals: Phoenix
Why: Career opportunities and social life. Phoenix has a larger, more diversified economy with growing sectors in tech, finance, and healthcare. The social scene is vibrant, with endless networking events, concerts, and nightlife. The lower cost of living (especially for homeowners) and no state income tax mean more disposable income for experiences. The weather allows for year-round patio dining and activities. Lebanon’s social scene can feel limited for a young single person.
Winner for Retirees: It’s a Tie (Depends on Your Priority)
- Phoenix wins if your priority is: Budget and sunshine. The ability to stretch retirement savings further (lower property taxes, no state tax on Social Security) is huge. The warm, snow-free winters are a major draw for those with health issues like arthritis. The active lifestyle (golf, pickleball, community centers) is built for retirees.
- Lebanon wins if your priority is: Safety and four-season beauty. The incredibly low crime rate offers peace of mind. The stunning New England seasons and access to high-quality healthcare (Dartmouth-Hitchcock) are compelling. However, the high property taxes can be a strain on a fixed income, and the snowy winters can be a physical challenge.
Phoenix: Pros & Cons
Pros:
- Significant Cost Advantage: Lower home prices and drastically lower property taxes mean your money goes much further.
- Year-Round Sunshine: No snow, no shoveling, and mild winters. Perfect for outdoor activities 8-9 months of the year.
- Economic & Social Opportunities: A large, diverse job market and a vibrant social scene with endless dining, sports, and entertainment options.
- Major Airport Hub: Easy domestic and international travel via Sky Harbor International (PHX).
Cons:
- Extreme Summer Heat: The heat is oppressive for 3-4 months and can be dangerous. It drastically changes your lifestyle.
- High Crime Rate: Crime is a serious concern, requiring careful neighborhood research.
- Car-Dependent Sprawl: Traffic is heavy, and public transit is limited. You will drive everywhere.
- Water Scarcity: Long-term water issues in the Colorado River basin could impact the region's future growth.
Lebanon: Pros & Cons
Pros:
- Exceptional Safety: One of the safest communities in the nation. Peace of mind is priceless.
- Four-Season Beauty: Access to world-class skiing, hiking, and iconic fall foliage.
- Top-Rated Schools & Healthcare: Excellent public education and the renowned Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center.
- Strong Sense of Community: A tight-knit, walkable town with a charming, historic core.
Cons:
- Extremely Competitive Housing Market: Low inventory leads to bidding wars and high prices. Renting is also very difficult.
- High Property Taxes: The lack of a state income tax is offset by some of the nation's highest property taxes.
- Harsh Winters: Long, cold, and snowy winters can be isolating and physically demanding.
- Limited Job Market & Amenities: The economy is dominated by healthcare and education. For niche careers or big-city amenities, you may need to commute to Boston or Burlington.
The Bottom Line: Choose Phoenix if you’re chasing career growth, value sunshine over snow, and want your salary to stretch further in a homeownership scenario. Choose Lebanon if you prioritize safety, community, and the outdoors, and are willing to pay a premium for it in a fiercely competitive housing market.