Tempe vs Erie for Families (2026)
Scroll down for childcare estimates, home price-to-income ratios, and FAQ.
Full family cost breakdown
| Metric | Tempe Arizona | Erie Pennsylvania |
|---|---|---|
| Studio rent / month | $1,250 | $900Better |
| 2BR rent / month | $2,100 | $1,450Better |
| Median home price | $430K | $180KBetter |
| Median household income | $68KBetter | $47K |
| Est. childcare / month | $1,339 | $1,092Better |
| State income tax | 2.5%Better | 3.1% |
| Sales tax (combined) | 8.6% | 6%Better |
| Monthly utilities | $210 | $168Better |
| Groceries index (US = 100) | 100 | 96Better |
Frequently asked questions
Which city is better for raising a family — Tempe or Erie?
Tempe and Erie are closely matched for families overall. Housing costs, income levels, and taxes are comparable. Your specific priorities — school quality, commute, outdoor space — should drive the decision.
What is the average 2-bedroom rent in Tempe vs Erie?
As of Q1 2026, median 2BR rent is $2,100/month in Tempe and $1,450/month in Erie. Erie is 31% cheaper for a family-sized apartment.
Can a family afford to buy a home in Tempe or Erie?
The price-to-income ratio in Tempe is 6.3× ($430K median home, $68K median income). In Erie it's 3.8× ($180K home, $47K income). A ratio below 3× is generally considered affordable — Erie is more achievable for first-time family homebuyers.
How much does childcare cost in Tempe vs Erie?
Estimated infant/toddler childcare runs approximately $1,339/month in Tempe and $1,092/month in Erie, based on national averages scaled by each city's cost-of-living index. Annual childcare cost difference: ~$2,964/year.
Which city has lower taxes for families?
Tempe has a 2.5% state income tax rate vs Erie's 3.1% rate. For a dual-income family earning $120K combined, that difference is roughly $60/month in take-home pay.
$100K in Tempe has the same purchasing power as $82K in Erie
Childcare estimates based on national avg scaled by COL index · Data: Zillow, BLS, Numbeo, Tax Foundation · Q1 2026