Gilbert, AZ vs Scottsdale, AZ

Gilbert is moderately more affordable than Scottsdale, with a 7.9% lower cost of living index. Gilbert scores 141 compared to 153 for Scottsdale, where the US average is 100. This difference means residents of Scottsdale can expect to pay noticeably more for everyday expenses, housing, and services.

On the housing front, median rent in Gilbert is $2,028/month compared to $1,910/month in Scottsdale — a 6% difference. Interestingly, home values tell a different story: while Scottsdale has cheaper rent, Gilbert actually has lower median home values ($518,600 vs $709,900).

Median household income in Gilbert is $121,351 compared to $107,372 in Scottsdale (+13%). Gilbert offers a double advantage: higher earnings combined with a lower cost of living, giving residents significantly more purchasing power. Looking at affordability, residents of Gilbert spend roughly 20.1% of their income on rent, less than the 21.3% in Scottsdale.