Moving from Tacoma to Tempe (2026)
Tempe has a COL index of 103 vs 114 for Tacoma (100 = US average). You'd pay about 10% less for the same lifestyle.
Save ~$263/mo
on core expenses · $75K salary baseline
Key differences
COL index
114103
100 = US avg
1BR rent
$1,900$1,600
per month
State tax
None2.5%
income tax
Take-home at $75K
$4,741$4,584
per month
Salary needed in Tempe to match your Tacoma lifestyle
Based on the 10% cost of living decrease between the two cities.
| Your salary in Tacoma | Equivalent in Tempe |
|---|---|
| $40K | $36,140 |
| $50K | $45,175 |
| $60K | $54,211 |
| $75K | $67,763 |
| $80K | $72,281 |
| $100K | $90,351 |
| $120K | $108,421 |
| $150K | $135,526 |
Monthly budget at $75K — Tacoma vs Tempe
| Expense | Tacoma | Tempe |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly take-home | $4,741 | $4,584 |
| 1BR rent | $1,900 | $1,600 |
| Groceries | $399 | $380 |
| Transport | $90 | $55 |
| Utilities | $118 | $210 |
| Internet | $63 | $62 |
| Left after essentials | $2,171 | $2,277 |
Frequently asked questions
Is Tempe cheaper than Tacoma?
Yes. Tempe has a cost of living index of 103 vs 114 for Tacoma (100 = US average). That's about 10% cheaper.
How much will I save moving from Tacoma to Tempe?
On a $75K salary, moving from Tacoma to Tempe could save roughly $263/month on core expenses. That's ~$3,156/year.
What salary do I need in Tempe to match my Tacoma lifestyle?
To maintain the same purchasing power as $75,000 in Tacoma, you'd need roughly $67,763/year in Tempe. This is based on the overall COL index difference between the two cities.
Moving from Tempe to TacomaTacoma vs Tempe — full comparisonTacoma 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