Moving from Tempe to Tucson (2026)
Tucson has a COL index of 93 vs 103 for Tempe (100 = US average). You'd pay about 10% less for the same lifestyle.
Save ~$384/mo
on core expenses · $75K salary baseline
Key differences
COL index
10393
100 = US avg
1BR rent
$1,600$1,250
per month
State tax
2.5%2.5%
income tax
Take-home at $75K
$4,584$4,584
per month
Salary needed in Tucson to match your Tempe lifestyle
Based on the 10% cost of living decrease between the two cities.
| Your salary in Tempe | Equivalent in Tucson |
|---|---|
| $40K | $36,117 |
| $50K | $45,146 |
| $60K | $54,175 |
| $75K | $67,718 |
| $80K | $72,233 |
| $100K | $90,291 |
| $120K | $108,350 |
| $150K | $135,437 |
Monthly budget at $75K — Tempe vs Tucson
| Expense | Tempe | Tucson |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly take-home | $4,584 | $4,584 |
| 1BR rent | $1,600 | $1,250 |
| Groceries | $380 | $365 |
| Transport | $55 | $48 |
| Utilities | $210 | $200 |
| Internet | $62 | $60 |
| Left after essentials | $2,277 | $2,661 |
Frequently asked questions
Is Tucson cheaper than Tempe?
Yes. Tucson has a cost of living index of 93 vs 103 for Tempe (100 = US average). That's about 10% cheaper.
How much will I save moving from Tempe to Tucson?
On a $75K salary, moving from Tempe to Tucson could save roughly $384/month on core expenses. That's ~$4,608/year.
What salary do I need in Tucson to match my Tempe lifestyle?
To maintain the same purchasing power as $75,000 in Tempe, you'd need roughly $67,718/year in Tucson. This is based on the overall COL index difference between the two cities.
Moving from Tucson to TempeTempe vs Tucson — full comparisonTempe cost of livingTucson 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