Moving from Tempe to Nashville (2026)

Nashville has a COL index of 112 vs 103 for Tempe (100 = US average). Expect to pay about 9% more for the same lifestyle.

Pay ~$158 more/mo
on core expenses · $75K salary baseline

Key differences

COL index
103112
100 = US avg
1BR rent
$1,600$1,800
per month
State tax
2.5%None
income tax
Take-home at $75K
$4,584$4,741
per month

Salary needed in Nashville to match your Tempe lifestyle

Based on the 9% cost of living increase between the two cities.

Your salary in TempeEquivalent in Nashville
$40K$43,495
$50K$54,369
$60K$65,243
$75K$81,553
$80K$86,990
$100K$108,738
$120K$130,485
$150K$163,107

Monthly budget at $75K — Tempe vs Nashville

ExpenseTempeNashville
Monthly take-home$4,584$4,741
1BR rent$1,600$1,800
Groceries$380$365
Transport$55$70
Utilities$210$170
Internet$62$60
Left after essentials$2,277$2,276

Frequently asked questions

Is Nashville cheaper than Tempe?

No. Nashville has a cost of living index of 112 vs 103 for Tempe (100 = US average). That's about 9% more expensive.

How much will I save moving from Tempe to Nashville?

On a $75K salary, core expenses in Nashville run about $158/month more than Tempe. Factor this into your salary negotiation when relocating.

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

To maintain the same purchasing power as $75,000 in Tempe, you'd need roughly $81,553/year in Nashville. 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