Moving from Tempe to Topeka (2026)
Topeka has a COL index of 80 vs 103 for Tempe (100 = US average). You'd pay about 22% less for the same lifestyle.
Save ~$772/mo
on core expenses · $75K salary baseline
Key differences
COL index
10380
100 = US avg
1BR rent
$1,600$940
per month
State tax
2.5%5.7%
income tax
Take-home at $75K
$4,584$4,384
per month
Salary needed in Topeka to match your Tempe lifestyle
Based on the 22% cost of living decrease between the two cities.
| Your salary in Tempe | Equivalent in Topeka |
|---|---|
| $40K | $31,068 |
| $50K | $38,835 |
| $60K | $46,602 |
| $75K | $58,252 |
| $80K | $62,136 |
| $100K | $77,670 |
| $120K | $93,204 |
| $150K | $116,505 |
Monthly budget at $75K — Tempe vs Topeka
| Expense | Tempe | Topeka |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly take-home | $4,584 | $4,384 |
| 1BR rent | $1,600 | $940 |
| Groceries | $380 | $350 |
| Transport | $55 | $40 |
| Utilities | $210 | $150 |
| Internet | $62 | $55 |
| Left after essentials | $2,277 | $2,849 |
Frequently asked questions
Is Topeka cheaper than Tempe?
Yes. Topeka has a cost of living index of 80 vs 103 for Tempe (100 = US average). That's about 22% cheaper.
How much will I save moving from Tempe to Topeka?
On a $75K salary, moving from Tempe to Topeka could save roughly $772/month on core expenses. That's ~$9,264/year.
What salary do I need in Topeka to match my Tempe lifestyle?
To maintain the same purchasing power as $75,000 in Tempe, you'd need roughly $58,252/year in Topeka. This is based on the overall COL index difference between the two cities.
Moving from Topeka to TempeTempe vs Topeka — full comparisonTempe cost of livingTopeka 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