Moving from Roanoke to Tempe (2026)

Tempe has a COL index of 103 vs 87 for Roanoke (100 = US average). Expect to pay about 18% more for the same lifestyle.

Pay ~$483 more/mo
on core expenses · $75K salary baseline

Key differences

COL index
87103
100 = US avg
1BR rent
$1,200$1,600
per month
State tax
5.8%2.5%
income tax
Take-home at $75K
$4,378$4,584
per month

Salary needed in Tempe to match your Roanoke lifestyle

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

Your salary in RoanokeEquivalent in Tempe
$40K$47,356
$50K$59,195
$60K$71,034
$75K$88,793
$80K$94,713
$100K$118,391
$120K$142,069
$150K$177,586

Monthly budget at $75K — Roanoke vs Tempe

ExpenseRoanokeTempe
Monthly take-home$4,378$4,584
1BR rent$1,200$1,600
Groceries$361$380
Transport$48$55
Utilities$155$210
Internet$60$62
Left after essentials$2,554$2,277

Frequently asked questions

Is Tempe cheaper than Roanoke?

No. Tempe has a cost of living index of 103 vs 87 for Roanoke (100 = US average). That's about 18% more expensive.

How much will I save moving from Roanoke to Tempe?

On a $75K salary, core expenses in Tempe run about $483/month more than Roanoke. Factor this into your salary negotiation when relocating.

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

To maintain the same purchasing power as $75,000 in Roanoke, you'd need roughly $88,793/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