Moving from Portland to Tempe (2026)

Tempe has a COL index of 103 vs 125 for Portland (100 = US average). You'd pay about 18% less for the same lifestyle.

Save ~$295/mo
on core expenses · $75K salary baseline

Key differences

COL index
125103
100 = US avg
1BR rent
$1,900$1,600
per month
State tax
9.9%2.5%
income tax
Take-home at $75K
$4,122$4,584
per month

Salary needed in Tempe to match your Portland lifestyle

Based on the 18% cost of living decrease between the two cities.

Your salary in PortlandEquivalent in Tempe
$40K$32,960
$50K$41,200
$60K$49,440
$75K$61,800
$80K$65,920
$100K$82,400
$120K$98,880
$150K$123,600

Monthly budget at $75K — Portland vs Tempe

ExpensePortlandTempe
Monthly take-home$4,122$4,584
1BR rent$1,900$1,600
Groceries$407$380
Transport$100$55
Utilities$130$210
Internet$65$62
Left after essentials$1,520$2,277

Frequently asked questions

Is Tempe cheaper than Portland?

Yes. Tempe has a cost of living index of 103 vs 125 for Portland (100 = US average). That's about 18% cheaper.

How much will I save moving from Portland to Tempe?

On a $75K salary, moving from Portland to Tempe could save roughly $295/month on core expenses. That's ~$3,540/year.

What salary do I need in Tempe to match my Portland lifestyle?

To maintain the same purchasing power as $75,000 in Portland, you'd need roughly $61,800/year in Tempe. This is based on the overall COL index difference between the two cities.

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