Moving from Atlanta to Tempe (2026)

Tempe has a COL index of 103 vs 110 for Atlanta (100 = US average). You'd pay about 6% less for the same lifestyle.

Save ~$289/mo
on core expenses · $75K salary baseline

Key differences

COL index
110103
100 = US avg
1BR rent
$1,900$1,600
per month
State tax
5.5%2.5%
income tax
Take-home at $75K
$4,397$4,584
per month

Salary needed in Tempe to match your Atlanta lifestyle

Based on the 6% cost of living decrease between the two cities.

Your salary in AtlantaEquivalent in Tempe
$40K$37,455
$50K$46,818
$60K$56,182
$75K$70,227
$80K$74,909
$100K$93,636
$120K$112,364
$150K$140,455

Monthly budget at $75K — Atlanta vs Tempe

ExpenseAtlantaTempe
Monthly take-home$4,397$4,584
1BR rent$1,900$1,600
Groceries$376$380
Transport$95$55
Utilities$165$210
Internet$60$62
Left after essentials$1,801$2,277

Frequently asked questions

Is Tempe cheaper than Atlanta?

Yes. Tempe has a cost of living index of 103 vs 110 for Atlanta (100 = US average). That's about 6% cheaper.

How much will I save moving from Atlanta to Tempe?

On a $75K salary, moving from Atlanta to Tempe could save roughly $289/month on core expenses. That's ~$3,468/year.

What salary do I need in Tempe to match my Atlanta lifestyle?

To maintain the same purchasing power as $75,000 in Atlanta, you'd need roughly $70,227/year in Tempe. This is based on the overall COL index difference between the two cities.

Estimates based on Q1 2026 COL index and market data. Budget uses simplified federal/state tax rates at $75K. Zillow · BLS · Numbeo · For general guidance only