Moving from Houston to Tempe (2026)
Tempe has a COL index of 103 vs 95 for Houston (100 = US average). Expect to pay about 8% more for the same lifestyle.
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Key differences
Salary needed in Tempe to match your Houston lifestyle
Based on the 8% cost of living increase between the two cities.
| Your salary in Houston | Equivalent in Tempe |
|---|---|
| $40K | $43,368 |
| $50K | $54,211 |
| $60K | $65,053 |
| $75K | $81,316 |
| $80K | $86,737 |
| $100K | $108,421 |
| $120K | $130,105 |
| $150K | $162,632 |
💵 Household income (before tax)
Monthly budget at $75K — Houston vs Tempe
| Expense | Houston | Tempe |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly take-home | $4,741 | $4,584 |
| 1BR rent | $1,350 | $1,600 |
| Groceries | $357 | $380 |
| Transport | $90 | $55 |
| Utilities | $175 | $210 |
| Internet | $65 | $62 |
| Left after essentials | $2,704 | $2,277 |
Frequently asked questions
Is Tempe cheaper than Houston?
No. Tempe has a cost of living index of 103 vs 95 for Houston (100 = US average). That's about 8% more expensive.
How much will I save moving from Houston to Tempe?
On a $75K salary, core expenses in Tempe run about $406/month more than Houston. Factor this into your salary negotiation when relocating.
What salary do I need in Tempe to match my Houston lifestyle?
To maintain the same purchasing power as $75,000 in Houston, you'd need roughly $81,316/year in Tempe. This is based on the overall COL index difference.
Estimates based on Q1 2026 COL index and market data. Budget uses simplified federal/state tax rates. Zillow · BLS · Numbeo · For general guidance only