Moving from Denver to Tempe (2026)
Tempe has a COL index of 103 vs 122 for Denver (100 = US average). You'd pay about 16% less for the same lifestyle.
Save ~$400/mo
on core expenses · $75K salary baseline
Key differences
COL index
122103
100 = US avg
1BR rent
$2,000$1,600
per month
State tax
4.4%2.5%
income tax
Take-home at $75K
$4,466$4,584
per month
Salary needed in Tempe to match your Denver lifestyle
Based on the 16% cost of living decrease between the two cities.
| Your salary in Denver | Equivalent in Tempe |
|---|---|
| $40K | $33,770 |
| $50K | $42,213 |
| $60K | $50,656 |
| $75K | $63,320 |
| $80K | $67,541 |
| $100K | $84,426 |
| $120K | $101,311 |
| $150K | $126,639 |
Monthly budget at $75K — Denver vs Tempe
| Expense | Denver | Tempe |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly take-home | $4,466 | $4,584 |
| 1BR rent | $2,000 | $1,600 |
| Groceries | $388 | $380 |
| Transport | $114 | $55 |
| Utilities | $140 | $210 |
| Internet | $65 | $62 |
| Left after essentials | $1,759 | $2,277 |
Frequently asked questions
Is Tempe cheaper than Denver?
Yes. Tempe has a cost of living index of 103 vs 122 for Denver (100 = US average). That's about 16% cheaper.
How much will I save moving from Denver to Tempe?
On a $75K salary, moving from Denver to Tempe could save roughly $400/month on core expenses. That's ~$4,800/year.
What salary do I need in Tempe to match my Denver lifestyle?
To maintain the same purchasing power as $75,000 in Denver, you'd need roughly $63,320/year in Tempe. This is based on the overall COL index difference between the two cities.
Moving from Tempe to DenverDenver vs Tempe — full comparisonDenver 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