Moving from Honolulu to Tempe (2026)
Tempe has a COL index of 103 vs 186 for Honolulu (100 = US average). You'd pay about 45% less for the same lifestyle.
Save ~$1,679/mo
on core expenses · $75K salary baseline
Key differences
COL index
186103
100 = US avg
1BR rent
$3,200$1,600
per month
State tax
11%2.5%
income tax
Take-home at $75K
$4,053$4,584
per month
Salary needed in Tempe to match your Honolulu lifestyle
Based on the 45% cost of living decrease between the two cities.
| Your salary in Honolulu | Equivalent in Tempe |
|---|---|
| $40K | $22,151 |
| $50K | $27,688 |
| $60K | $33,226 |
| $75K | $41,532 |
| $80K | $44,301 |
| $100K | $55,376 |
| $120K | $66,452 |
| $150K | $83,065 |
Monthly budget at $75K — Honolulu vs Tempe
| Expense | Honolulu | Tempe |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly take-home | $4,053 | $4,584 |
| 1BR rent | $3,200 | $1,600 |
| Groceries | $456 | $380 |
| Transport | $70 | $55 |
| Utilities | $185 | $210 |
| Internet | $75 | $62 |
| Left after essentials | $67 | $2,277 |
Frequently asked questions
Is Tempe cheaper than Honolulu?
Yes. Tempe has a cost of living index of 103 vs 186 for Honolulu (100 = US average). That's about 45% cheaper.
How much will I save moving from Honolulu to Tempe?
On a $75K salary, moving from Honolulu to Tempe could save roughly $1,679/month on core expenses. That's ~$20,148/year.
What salary do I need in Tempe to match my Honolulu lifestyle?
To maintain the same purchasing power as $75,000 in Honolulu, you'd need roughly $41,532/year in Tempe. This is based on the overall COL index difference between the two cities.
Moving from Tempe to HonoluluHonolulu vs Tempe — full comparisonHonolulu 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