Moving from Bellevue to Tempe (2026)

Tempe has a COL index of 103 vs 148 for Bellevue (100 = US average). You'd pay about 30% less for the same lifestyle.

Save ~$1,107/mo
on core expenses · $75K salary baseline

Key differences

COL index
148103
100 = US avg
1BR rent
$2,700$1,600
per month
State tax
None2.5%
income tax
Take-home at $75K
$4,741$4,584
per month

Salary needed in Tempe to match your Bellevue lifestyle

Based on the 30% cost of living decrease between the two cities.

Your salary in BellevueEquivalent in Tempe
$40K$27,838
$50K$34,797
$60K$41,757
$75K$52,196
$80K$55,676
$100K$69,595
$120K$83,514
$150K$104,392

Monthly budget at $75K — Bellevue vs Tempe

ExpenseBellevueTempe
Monthly take-home$4,741$4,584
1BR rent$2,700$1,600
Groceries$426$380
Transport$100$55
Utilities$120$210
Internet$68$62
Left after essentials$1,327$2,277

Frequently asked questions

Is Tempe cheaper than Bellevue?

Yes. Tempe has a cost of living index of 103 vs 148 for Bellevue (100 = US average). That's about 30% cheaper.

How much will I save moving from Bellevue to Tempe?

On a $75K salary, moving from Bellevue to Tempe could save roughly $1,107/month on core expenses. That's ~$13,284/year.

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

To maintain the same purchasing power as $75,000 in Bellevue, you'd need roughly $52,196/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