Cost of Living in Lake havasu city, AZ
Lake havasu city cost of living index: 75.8 (below the US average). Median home price: $495,000.
Updated 2026 • Based on 3 local zip codes
📍 Some data sourced from nearby metro area
% below the national average
Housing
Data from 3 zip codes
Housing costs in Lake havasu city, AZ based on real market data from 3 local zip codes.
Considering a move to Lake havasu city, AZ? With a housing index of 108.53, it indicates that housing costs are slightly higher than the national average. The median home price sits at 495000.0, suggesting a competitive market. Renting is also a viable option, with the average rent for a 2-bedroom apartment at 1623.33 and a 2-bedroom house at . Factors like local amenities, quality schools, and community vibe play a crucial role in your decision. Research the neighborhood to ensure it aligns with your lifestyle and financial goals.
Last updated: January 2026
Utilities
The cost of utilities such as electricity, natural gas, and other services can significantly impact the overall cost of living.
Living in Lake havasu city, AZ could entail variable utility costs. Electricity costs sit at $15.14, while natural gas is priced at $23.51 per Thousand Cubic Feet. Expect to budget about $95.03 monthly for other services like water and garbage.
Cost Breakdown by Category
Local Income & Economy in Lake havasu city, AZ
How far does your money go in Lake havasu city? Understanding the relationship between income and cost of living is key to evaluating affordability.
How We Calculate Adjusted Purchasing Power in Lake havasu city
The adjusted purchasing power shows what a Lake havasu city, AZ household income is actually worth after accounting for local prices. We calculate it using the formula: Purchasing Power = Median Income ÷ Cost of Living Index × 100
For Lake havasu city, that's $64,027 ÷ 75.8 × 100 = $84,468. This means a household earning the median income in Lake havasu city has the equivalent buying power of $84,468 in a city where the cost of living index equals the national baseline of 100.
Lake havasu city is well below the national cost of living average at 75.8, making it one of the more affordable places to live in AZ. The median income of $64,027 has an effective purchasing power of $84,468 — a meaningful boost that allows residents to save more, invest in real estate, or enjoy a higher standard of living compared to expensive metro areas.
Combined with a low poverty rate of 11% and healthy job market (4.1% unemployment), Lake havasu city offers strong value for families, investors, and anyone looking to relocate to a city where income goes further.
💡 Purchasing power is calculated by dividing the local median household income by the cost of living index and multiplying by 100. A result higher than the nominal income means your money goes further; a lower result means local prices erode your earnings. The US baseline cost of living index is 100.
Pros & Cons of Living in Lake havasu city
Pros
- • Friendly community vibe
- • Sunny weather year-round
- • Vibrant festival scene
- • Strong tourism income
- • Active outdoor lifestyle
- • Close to national parks
- • Beautiful lake views
- • Great for water sports
- • Affordable housing options
- • Good retirement destination
Cons
- • Few public schools available
- • High summer temperatures
- • Limited nightlife options
- • Less diverse demographics
- • Roads can be crowded
- • Public transport is lacking
- • Rising cost of living concerns
- • Limited kids' activities
- • Potential for seasonal tourism issues
- • Low job market competitiveness
💡City Insights
Lake havasu city scores 6/10 for affordability, 5/10 for safety, and 5/10 for family-friendliness — an good overall profile.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cost of living in Lake havasu city, AZ? ▼
The cost of living in Lake havasu city, AZ is 24% lower than the national average, with a cost of living index of 76 (where 100 represents the U.S. average). Housing typically accounts for the largest portion of living expenses. See full cost of living breakdown →
How much does it cost to buy or rent a home in Lake havasu city, AZ? ▼
In Lake havasu city, AZ, The median home price is $495,000. requiring approximately $148,929 annual income to afford. Average rent is $1,623/month (requiring ~$64,933/year income). The local median household income is $64,027, making homeownership challenging for typical residents. Explore Lake havasu city real estate data →
Is Lake havasu city, AZ a safe place to live? ▼
Lake havasu city, AZ is average in terms of safety, with crime rates near the national average. Safety varies significantly by neighborhood. View detailed Lake havasu city crime statistics →
What salary do you need to live comfortably in Lake havasu city, AZ? ▼
To live comfortably in Lake havasu city, AZ and afford a median-priced home of $495,000, you would typically need a household income of $123,750 to $154,688 per year. The local median household income is $64,027. Renting requires approximately $64,933/year (at $1,623/month). See full affordability analysis →
What are the best neighborhoods in Lake havasu city, AZ? ▼
The best neighborhoods in Lake havasu city, AZ depend on your priorities. For families, look for areas near top-rated schools with lower crime rates. For affordability, neighborhoods farther from the city center tend to offer more affordable options.
How are the taxes in Lake havasu city, AZ? ▼
Tax rates in Lake havasu city, AZ include state and local components. The cost of living index of 76 suggests a lower overall tax and expense burden cost environment compared to the national average. View detailed Lake havasu city tax information →
How does Lake havasu city, AZ compare to nearby cities? ▼
Lake havasu city, AZ offers a more affordable alternative to nearby communities. With a cost of living index of 76, median home prices of $495,000, and a crime rate of 0 per 1,000 residents, you can compare these metrics side-by-side. Use the compare feature to evaluate specific cities.
What is the weather like in Lake havasu city, AZ? ▼
Weather in Lake havasu city, AZ varies by season. Climate data varies by season. View detailed Lake havasu city climate & environment data →
What factors affect cost of living in Lake havasu city, AZ? ▼
The main factors affecting cost of living in Lake havasu city, AZ include housing costs (the biggest factor), utilities, groceries, transportation, and healthcare. Local taxes and the overall economic conditions also play a role.
Housing Costs by Zip Code
Detailed housing data across 3 zip codes in Lake havasu city, AZ.
| Zip Code | Median Home Price | Avg Rent | 2BR Rent | For Sale | For Rent |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 86403 | $376,000 | $1,872/mo | $1,650/mo | 291 | 120 |
| 86404 | $495,000 | $2,343/mo | $1,525/mo | 366 | 74 |
| 86406 | $545,000 | $2,421/mo | $1,695/mo | 412 | 112 |
Explore More About Lake havasu city, AZ
📅 Last Updated: January 2026
Sources: U.S. Census Bureau (ACS), Bureau of Labor Statistics, Council for Community and Economic Research (C2ER), Zillow, Redfin