Cost of Living: Akron, OH vs Tempe, AZ (2026)

Akron

Ohio
55
VS

Tempe

Arizona
120

Akron is 65% cheaper than Tempe.

$930/mo ↓ 43%
Median Rent
$1,623/mo ↑ 75%
$48,544/yr ↓ 37%
Median Income
$77,643/yr ↑ 60%
$111,200 ↓ 74%
Home Value
$421,900 ↑ 279%
$904/mo ↓ 42%
Owner Costs
$1,554/mo ↑ 72%
189,526
Population
186,419

Tax Comparison

3.5%
Income Tax
2.5%
5.75%
Sales Tax
5.6%
1.53%
Property Tax
0.62%

Affordability

23.0%
rent-to-income
Affordability
25.1%
rent-to-income

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Akron, OH and Tempe, AZ, the overall cost of living indices are 55 and 120 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $693/month cheaper in Akron, saving renters about $8,316/year.

Median household income is $29,099/year higher in Tempe. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Akron is $111,200 compared to $421,900 in Tempe.

Arizona has a lower income tax rate, making Tempe slightly more tax-friendly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Akron vs Tempe — common questions

Is Akron or Tempe cheaper to live in?
Based on our cost index, Akron is cheaper to live in with an index of 55 compared to 120 (US average = 100).
What is the rent difference between Akron and Tempe?
Median rent in Akron is $930/month and in Tempe it's $1,623/month — a difference of $693/month.
Which city has higher income, Akron or Tempe?
Median household income is $48,544 in Akron and $77,643 in Tempe. Median household income is $29,099/year higher in Tempe.
How do taxes compare between Ohio and Arizona?
Ohio has 3.5% income tax, 5.75% sales tax, and 1.53% property tax. Arizona has 2.5% income tax, 5.6% sales tax, and 0.62% property tax.
Should I move to Akron or Tempe?
It depends on your priorities. Akron has a cost index of 55 with median rent of $930/mo, while Tempe has a cost index of 120 with rent of $1,623/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.
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