Moving from St. George to Tempe (2026)
Tempe has a COL index of 103 vs 96 for St. George (100 = US average). Expect to pay about 7% more for the same lifestyle.
Key differences
Salary needed in Tempe to match your St. George lifestyle
Based on the 7% cost of living increase between the two cities.
| Your salary in St. George | Equivalent in Tempe |
|---|---|
| $40K | $42,917 |
| $50K | $53,646 |
| $60K | $64,375 |
| $75K | $80,469 |
| $80K | $85,833 |
| $100K | $107,292 |
| $120K | $128,750 |
| $150K | $160,938 |
Monthly budget at $75K — St. George vs Tempe
| Expense | St. George | Tempe |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly take-home | $4,447 | $4,584 |
| 1BR rent | $1,300 | $1,600 |
| Groceries | $372 | $380 |
| Transport | $40 | $55 |
| Utilities | $148 | $210 |
| Internet | $63 | $62 |
| Left after essentials | $2,524 | $2,277 |
Frequently asked questions
Is Tempe cheaper than St. George?
No. Tempe has a cost of living index of 103 vs 96 for St. George (100 = US average). That's about 7% more expensive.
How much will I save moving from St. George to Tempe?
On a $75K salary, core expenses in Tempe run about $384/month more than St. George. Factor this into your salary negotiation when relocating.
What salary do I need in Tempe to match my St. George lifestyle?
To maintain the same purchasing power as $75,000 in St. George, you'd need roughly $80,469/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