Moving from St. Louis to Tempe (2026)
Tempe has a COL index of 103 vs 87 for St. Louis (100 = US average). Expect to pay about 18% more for the same lifestyle.
Key differences
Salary needed in Tempe to match your St. Louis lifestyle
Based on the 18% cost of living increase between the two cities.
| Your salary in St. Louis | Equivalent 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 — St. Louis vs Tempe
| Expense | St. Louis | Tempe |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly take-home | $4,447 | $4,584 |
| 1BR rent | $1,300 | $1,600 |
| Groceries | $369 | $380 |
| Transport | $75 | $55 |
| Utilities | $162 | $210 |
| Internet | $60 | $62 |
| Left after essentials | $2,481 | $2,277 |
Frequently asked questions
Is Tempe cheaper than St. Louis?
No. Tempe has a cost of living index of 103 vs 87 for St. Louis (100 = US average). That's about 18% more expensive.
How much will I save moving from St. Louis to Tempe?
On a $75K salary, core expenses in Tempe run about $341/month more than St. Louis. Factor this into your salary negotiation when relocating.
What salary do I need in Tempe to match my St. Louis lifestyle?
To maintain the same purchasing power as $75,000 in St. Louis, 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