Moving from Wilmington to Tempe (2026)
Tempe has a COL index of 103 vs 93 for Wilmington (100 = US average). Expect to pay about 11% more for the same lifestyle.
Key differences
Salary needed in Tempe to match your Wilmington lifestyle
Based on the 11% cost of living increase between the two cities.
| Your salary in Wilmington | Equivalent in Tempe |
|---|---|
| $40K | $44,301 |
| $50K | $55,376 |
| $60K | $66,452 |
| $75K | $83,065 |
| $80K | $88,602 |
| $100K | $110,753 |
| $120K | $132,903 |
| $150K | $166,129 |
Monthly budget at $75K — Wilmington vs Tempe
| Expense | Wilmington | Tempe |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly take-home | $4,459 | $4,584 |
| 1BR rent | $1,550 | $1,600 |
| Groceries | $372 | $380 |
| Transport | $45 | $55 |
| Utilities | $158 | $210 |
| Internet | $62 | $62 |
| Left after essentials | $2,272 | $2,277 |
Frequently asked questions
Is Tempe cheaper than Wilmington?
No. Tempe has a cost of living index of 103 vs 93 for Wilmington (100 = US average). That's about 11% more expensive.
How much will I save moving from Wilmington to Tempe?
On a $75K salary, core expenses in Tempe run about $120/month more than Wilmington. Factor this into your salary negotiation when relocating.
What salary do I need in Tempe to match my Wilmington lifestyle?
To maintain the same purchasing power as $75,000 in Wilmington, you'd need roughly $83,065/year in Tempe. 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