📊 Lifestyle Match
Visualizing the tradeoffs between Round Rock and Phoenix
Head-to-Head Analysis
Round Rock vs Phoenix
Detailed breakdown of cost of living, income potential, and lifestyle metrics.
📋 The Details
Line-by-line data comparison.
| Category / Metric | Round Rock | Phoenix |
|---|---|---|
| Financial Overview | ||
| Median Income | $102,420 | $79,664 |
| Unemployment Rate | 4.2% | 4.1% |
| Housing Market | ||
| Median Home Price | $375,000 | $457,000 |
| Price per SqFt | $197 | $278 |
| Monthly Rent (1BR) | $1,635 | $1,599 |
| Housing Cost Index | 126.4 | 124.3 |
| Cost of Living | ||
| Groceries Index | 91.9 | 98.4 |
| Gas Price (Gallon) | $2.35 | $3.40 |
| Safety & Lifestyle | ||
| Violent Crime (per 100k) | 189.0 | 691.8 |
| Bachelor's Degree+ | 45.9% | 33.5% |
| Air Quality (AQI) | 34 | 39 |
Expert Verdict
AI-generated analysis based on current data.
Phoenix vs. Round Rock: The Ultimate Head-to-Head Showdown
So, you're staring down the barrel of a major life decision. On one side, you have Phoenix, Arizona—a sprawling, sun-drenched metropolis in the heart of the Sonoran Desert. On the other, Round Rock, Texas—a fast-growing, family-friendly suburb just north of Austin. Both are booming, both are hot, and both are pulling in people from all over the country. But they couldn't be more different.
Choosing between them isn't just about a change of address; it's about choosing a lifestyle. Are you looking for the hustle and bustle of a big city with endless entertainment, or do you want the quiet, community-driven life of a suburb with top-tier schools and a small-town feel? Your "why" is going to be the deciding factor here.
Let's break it down, head-to-head, using cold, hard data and a healthy dose of real-world perspective.
The Vibe Check: Culture & Lifestyle
Phoenix is a major metropolitan beast. It's the 5th largest city in the U.S. by population, and it feels like it. The vibe is "big city energy meets desert oasis." You have world-class dining, a thriving arts scene (especially in Roosevelt Row), professional sports for every season, and a nightlife that buzzes well into the night. It's diverse, transient, and fast-paced. The city is a sprawling grid of suburbs, each with its own personality, but the core is undeniably urban. It's for the person who wants access to everything—concerts, games, international flights, and a thousand different restaurants—all within a 30-minute drive.
Round Rock, on the other hand, is the quintessential modern suburb. With a population of just 131,735, it's a fraction of Phoenix's size. The vibe here is "community-first, family-focused." The city is built around the concept of a master-planned community, with excellent parks, highly-rated schools, and a strong sense of local pride. It's the home of the world headquarters for Dell Technologies, which fuels a stable, educated job market. The nightlife is quieter, revolving around local breweries, community events, and family-friendly activities. It's for the person who wants a safe, clean, and convenient base of operations, with the massive cultural and career opportunities of nearby Austin just a 30-minute drive away.
Who is each city for?
- Phoenix is for the urban adventurer, the young professional seeking a big-city launchpad, the transplant looking for a dramatic change of scenery, and anyone who prioritizes amenities and entertainment over quiet serenity.
- Round Rock is for families, young professionals who work remotely or commute to Austin, and anyone who values community, safety, and top-tier public schools above all else.
Verdict: If you crave the energy of a major metro, Phoenix wins. If you want a tight-knit community feel, Round Rock takes the crown.
The Dollar Power: Cost of Living & Salary
This is where things get interesting, and you might experience some serious sticker shock. We need to talk about "purchasing power"—where does your paycheck actually stretch further?
Let's look at the hard numbers for a head-to-head comparison.
| Category | Phoenix, AZ | Round Rock, TX | The Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median Income | $79,664 | $102,420 | Round Rock |
| Median Home Price | $457,000 | $375,000 | Round Rock |
| Rent (1BR) | $1,599 | $1,635 | Phoenix (Slightly) |
| Housing Index | 124.3 | 126.4 | Phoenix (Slightly) |
| Violent Crime | 691.8/100k | 189.0/100k | Round Rock |
Sources: Data from provided snapshot. Note: Housing Index is a relative measure; 100 is the national average, so both are above average.
At first glance, Round Rock looks more expensive. Its Housing Index of 126.4 is slightly higher than Phoenix's 124.3, and its rent is a few bucks more per month. But this is where the Income Tax conversation becomes the ultimate game-changer.
Arizona has a progressive income tax system. If you're making the median income, you're paying a significant chunk of your paycheck to the state. Texas, however, has 0% state income tax. This is a massive, immediate boost to your take-home pay.
Let’s do some quick math for a household earning $100,000 (a common benchmark). In Arizona, you'd pay roughly $2,500-$3,000 annually in state income tax. In Texas, you pay $0. That’s an extra $200-$250 per month in your pocket, right off the bat.
Purchasing Power: When you factor in that Texas income tax advantage, Round Rock offers significantly more purchasing power. The median home price is $82,000 less in Round Rock, and your effective income is higher because you're not sending a check to the state. While Phoenix's rent is marginally lower, the overall cost-of-living equation—including taxes, housing, and utilities—tilts heavily in Round Rock's favor for most income levels.
Verdict: For pure bang for your buck, Round Rock is the clear winner, thanks to its lower home prices and the massive advantage of no state income tax.
The Housing Market: Buy vs. Rent
Buying a Home:
Both markets are competitive, but in different ways. Phoenix has experienced a massive housing boom, driving prices up sharply. The median home price of $457,000 is steep, and the market is often a seller's market with bidding wars, especially for move-in-ready homes in desirable school districts.
Round Rock offers more bang for your buck. A median price of $375,000 gets you a newer, often larger home in a master-planned community with a yard. The market is also competitive due to its desirability for families, but it's generally less frenetic than Phoenix's core. You'll find more inventory, though the best homes still move fast.
Renting:
The rent is a near-tie. Phoenix's $1,599 for a 1BR vs. Round Rock's $1,635 is a difference of $36 a month. This is negligible. The real difference is what you get for that rent. In Phoenix, you're likely in an apartment complex in a busy area. In Round Rock, you might get more square footage and a quieter environment for the same price.
Verdict: If you're looking to buy, Round Rock is the winner for affordability and value. For renting, it's a tie, but the lifestyle you get for your rent dollar may lean toward Round Rock's quieter vibe.
The Dealbreakers: Quality of Life
This is where personal preference trumps data. Let's talk about the daily grind.
Traffic & Commute:
- Phoenix: Traffic is notoriously bad. The I-10, Loop 101, and Loop 202 are parking lots during peak hours. Commutes can easily be 45-60 minutes for a 15-mile distance. The city is designed for cars, and it shows.
- Round Rock: Traffic is localized. The main thoroughfares (I-35, SH-45) can get congested, especially during rush hour, but it's a fraction of Phoenix's scale. Commutes within the city are short. The big factor is the commute to Austin, which can be a tough 30-60 minutes on I-35 depending on traffic.
Weather:
- Phoenix: This is a dealbreaker for many. Summers are brutal, with months of 100°F+ temperatures. The "dry heat" is a myth when it's 115°F. You're a prisoner to the AC from May to September. Winters are glorious, however, with crisp, sunny days in the 50s-60s.
- Round Rock: Texas summer is also hot and humid, with highs in the mid-90s and high humidity. It's a different kind of oppressive—sticky and muggy. Winters are mild, with occasional freezes and very rare snow. The spring and fall are arguably the best seasons in the country.
Crime & Safety:
The data here is stark. Phoenix's violent crime rate is 691.8 per 100,000 people, which is significantly higher than the national average. Round Rock's rate is 189.0 per 100,000, which is notably lower and reflects its status as one of the safer suburbs in the Austin metro. While Phoenix has many safe neighborhoods, the city-wide average is a serious consideration. Round Rock is objectively safer.
Verdict:
- Traffic: Round Rock (by a mile).
- Weather: Draw (It's a matter of preference: dry heat vs. humid heat).
- Safety: Round Rock, decisively.
The Final Verdict: Who Should Move Where?
After breaking down the data and the lifestyle factors, here’s the final call.
Winner for Families: Round Rock
The math is undeniable. Lower crime rates, top-rated schools (Round Rock ISD is a major draw), more affordable housing with yards, and a community-centric vibe make it a haven for families. The lack of state income tax also means more money for college funds and family vacations.
Winner for Singles & Young Professionals: Phoenix
If you're in your 20s or early 30s, single, and looking to build a network and have endless options for fun, Phoenix is your playground. The larger, more diverse job market (outside of tech), the vibrant nightlife, and the sheer scale of the city offer more opportunities for social and professional growth. The cost of living is higher, but the urban experience is unmatched in this comparison.
Winner for Retirees: It's Complicated (But leans Round Rock)
This is a tough one. Phoenix offers a super active retiree community, incredible golf, and stunning winter weather. However, the brutal summer heat is a serious health risk for older adults. Round Rock offers a quieter, safer, and more affordable lifestyle with easy access to Austin's cultural amenities. The humid summers are tough, but the milder winters might be preferable for some. For most, the combination of lower costs, better safety, and a more relaxed pace tips the scale toward Round Rock.
Pros & Cons: At a Glance
Phoenix, AZ
Pros:
- Big City Amenities: World-class dining, sports, concerts, and arts.
- No Extreme Humidity: Dry heat is easier for some to tolerate.
- International Airport: Sky Harbor is a major hub.
- Outdoor Recreation: Hiking, golf, and desert landscapes are stunning.
Cons:
- Brutal Summers: Months of extreme, dangerous heat.
- High Crime Rate: Statistically much higher than the national average.
- Traffic & Sprawl: Long, frustrating commutes.
- Higher Overall Cost: When you factor in taxes and home prices.
Round Rock, TX
Pros:
- Affordability: More house for your money, plus 0% state income tax.
- Safety: One of the safest cities of its size in the country.
- Top-Tier Schools: Round Rock ISD is a major draw for families.
- Proximity to Austin: Access to a major cultural and tech hub without Austin's price tag.
Cons:
- Suburban Vibe: Can feel sleepy if you're looking for urban energy.
- Humid Summers: The heat is sticky and can be oppressive.
- Traffic to Austin: The I-35 corridor is a notorious bottleneck.
- Less "Big City" Feel: You'll be driving to Austin for major concerts or specialized dining.
The Bottom Line: Choose Round Rock for safety, value, and family life. Choose Phoenix for urban energy, amenities, and a dramatic change of scenery. Your wallet and your lifestyle will thank you for making the right call.