Moving from San Antonio to Tempe (2026)

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

Pay ~$656 more/mo
on rent + taxes ยท $75K salary baseline

Change cities

Key differences

COL index
87 โ†’ 103
100 = US avg
1BR rent
$1,100 โ†’ $1,600
per month
State tax
None โ†’ 2.5%
income tax
COL difference
87 โ†’ 103
18% more expensive

Salary needed in Tempe to match your San Antonio lifestyle

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

Your salary in San AntonioEquivalent 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

๐Ÿ’ต Household income (before tax)

$75K
$
$30K$300K
Pay ~$571/mo moreon core expenses at $75K

Monthly budget at $75K โ€” San Antonio vs Tempe

ExpenseSan AntonioTempe
Monthly take-home$4,741$4,584
1BR rent$1,100$1,600
Groceries$353$380
Transport$48$55
Utilities$175$210
Internet$60$62
Left after essentials$3,005$2,277

Frequently asked questions

Is Tempe cheaper than San Antonio?

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

How much will I save moving from San Antonio to Tempe?

On a $75K salary, core expenses in Tempe run about $656/month more than San Antonio. Factor this into your salary negotiation when relocating.

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

To maintain the same purchasing power as $75,000 in San Antonio, you'd need roughly $88,793/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 ยท BLS ยท Numbeo ยท For general guidance only