The median household income in Arizona is $65,900. On the national average student loan balance of $37,650, a standard 10-year repayment plan at 6.54% costs $428/month — representing 7.8% of gross median income. Financial planners typically recommend keeping student loan payments below 10% of gross income.
Arizona's cost of living is near the national average (index: 103). Standard repayment plans are manageable for most borrowers earning at or above the state median income.
Arizona has a state income tax of 2.5% flat. Federal student loan interest is deductible up to $2,500/year if your MAGI is below $85,000, reducing your effective borrowing cost. Check whether Arizona mirrors the federal deduction for state return purposes.