Moving from Tempe to Rochester (2026)

Rochester has a COL index of 89 vs 103 for Tempe (100 = US average). You'd pay about 14% less for the same lifestyle.

Save ~$321/mo
on core expenses · $75K salary baseline

Key differences

COL index
10389
100 = US avg
1BR rent
$1,600$1,300
per month
State tax
2.5%6.9%
income tax
Take-home at $75K
$4,584$4,309
per month

Salary needed in Rochester to match your Tempe lifestyle

Based on the 14% cost of living decrease between the two cities.

Your salary in TempeEquivalent in Rochester
$40K$34,563
$50K$43,204
$60K$51,845
$75K$64,806
$80K$69,126
$100K$86,408
$120K$103,689
$150K$129,612

Monthly budget at $75K — Tempe vs Rochester

ExpenseTempeRochester
Monthly take-home$4,584$4,309
1BR rent$1,600$1,300
Groceries$380$376
Transport$55$65
Utilities$210$180
Internet$62$65
Left after essentials$2,277$2,323

Frequently asked questions

Is Rochester cheaper than Tempe?

Yes. Rochester has a cost of living index of 89 vs 103 for Tempe (100 = US average). That's about 14% cheaper.

How much will I save moving from Tempe to Rochester?

On a $75K salary, moving from Tempe to Rochester could save roughly $321/month on core expenses. That's ~$3,852/year.

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

To maintain the same purchasing power as $75,000 in Tempe, you'd need roughly $64,806/year in Rochester. 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