Moving from Boston to Tempe (2026)
Tempe has a COL index of 103 vs 162 for Boston (100 = US average). You'd pay about 36% less for the same lifestyle.
Save ~$1,456/mo
on core expenses · $75K salary baseline
Key differences
COL index
162103
100 = US avg
1BR rent
$3,000$1,600
per month
State tax
5%2.5%
income tax
Take-home at $75K
$4,428$4,584
per month
Salary needed in Tempe to match your Boston lifestyle
Based on the 36% cost of living decrease between the two cities.
| Your salary in Boston | Equivalent in Tempe |
|---|---|
| $40K | $25,432 |
| $50K | $31,790 |
| $60K | $38,148 |
| $75K | $47,685 |
| $80K | $50,864 |
| $100K | $63,580 |
| $120K | $76,296 |
| $150K | $95,370 |
Monthly budget at $75K — Boston vs Tempe
| Expense | Boston | Tempe |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly take-home | $4,428 | $4,584 |
| 1BR rent | $3,000 | $1,600 |
| Groceries | $418 | $380 |
| Transport | $90 | $55 |
| Utilities | $185 | $210 |
| Internet | $70 | $62 |
| Left after essentials | $665 | $2,277 |
Frequently asked questions
Is Tempe cheaper than Boston?
Yes. Tempe has a cost of living index of 103 vs 162 for Boston (100 = US average). That's about 36% cheaper.
How much will I save moving from Boston to Tempe?
On a $75K salary, moving from Boston to Tempe could save roughly $1,456/month on core expenses. That's ~$17,472/year.
What salary do I need in Tempe to match my Boston lifestyle?
To maintain the same purchasing power as $75,000 in Boston, you'd need roughly $47,685/year in Tempe. This is based on the overall COL index difference between the two cities.
Moving from Tempe to BostonBoston vs Tempe — full comparisonBoston cost of livingTempe cost of living
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