Moving from Chicago to Tempe (2026)
Tempe has a COL index of 103 vs 107 for Chicago (100 = US average). You'd pay about 4% less for the same lifestyle.
Save ~$316/mo
on core expenses · $75K salary baseline
Key differences
COL index
107103
100 = US avg
1BR rent
$1,900$1,600
per month
State tax
4.9%2.5%
income tax
Take-home at $75K
$4,434$4,584
per month
Salary needed in Tempe to match your Chicago lifestyle
Based on the 4% cost of living decrease between the two cities.
| Your salary in Chicago | Equivalent in Tempe |
|---|---|
| $40K | $38,505 |
| $50K | $48,131 |
| $60K | $57,757 |
| $75K | $72,196 |
| $80K | $77,009 |
| $100K | $96,262 |
| $120K | $115,514 |
| $150K | $144,393 |
Monthly budget at $75K — Chicago vs Tempe
| Expense | Chicago | Tempe |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly take-home | $4,434 | $4,584 |
| 1BR rent | $1,900 | $1,600 |
| Groceries | $388 | $380 |
| Transport | $105 | $55 |
| Utilities | $165 | $210 |
| Internet | $65 | $62 |
| Left after essentials | $1,811 | $2,277 |
Frequently asked questions
Is Tempe cheaper than Chicago?
Yes. Tempe has a cost of living index of 103 vs 107 for Chicago (100 = US average). That's about 4% cheaper.
How much will I save moving from Chicago to Tempe?
On a $75K salary, moving from Chicago to Tempe could save roughly $316/month on core expenses. That's ~$3,792/year.
What salary do I need in Tempe to match my Chicago lifestyle?
To maintain the same purchasing power as $75,000 in Chicago, you'd need roughly $72,196/year in Tempe. This is based on the overall COL index difference between the two cities.
Moving from Tempe to ChicagoChicago vs Tempe — full comparisonChicago 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