Moving from San Jose to Tempe (2026)
Tempe has a COL index of 103 vs 189 for San Jose (100 = US average). You'd pay about 46% less for the same lifestyle.
Save ~$1,450/mo
on core expenses · $75K salary baseline
Key differences
COL index
189103
100 = US avg
1BR rent
$3,000$1,600
per month
State tax
9.3%2.5%
income tax
Take-home at $75K
$4,159$4,584
per month
Salary needed in Tempe to match your San Jose lifestyle
Based on the 46% cost of living decrease between the two cities.
| Your salary in San Jose | Equivalent in Tempe |
|---|---|
| $40K | $21,799 |
| $50K | $27,249 |
| $60K | $32,698 |
| $75K | $40,873 |
| $80K | $43,598 |
| $100K | $54,497 |
| $120K | $65,397 |
| $150K | $81,746 |
Monthly budget at $75K — San Jose vs Tempe
| Expense | San Jose | Tempe |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly take-home | $4,159 | $4,584 |
| 1BR rent | $3,000 | $1,600 |
| Groceries | $437 | $380 |
| Transport | $100 | $55 |
| Utilities | $150 | $210 |
| Internet | $70 | $62 |
| Left after essentials | $402 | $2,277 |
Frequently asked questions
Is Tempe cheaper than San Jose?
Yes. Tempe has a cost of living index of 103 vs 189 for San Jose (100 = US average). That's about 46% cheaper.
How much will I save moving from San Jose to Tempe?
On a $75K salary, moving from San Jose to Tempe could save roughly $1,450/month on core expenses. That's ~$17,400/year.
What salary do I need in Tempe to match my San Jose lifestyle?
To maintain the same purchasing power as $75,000 in San Jose, you'd need roughly $40,873/year in Tempe. This is based on the overall COL index difference between the two cities.
Moving from Tempe to San JoseSan Jose vs Tempe — full comparisonSan Jose 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