Aurora, CO vs Tempe, AZ: 130 vs 120

$1,759/mo ↑ 8%

Median Rent

$1,623/mo ↓ 8%

$84,320/yr ↑ 9%

Median Income

$77,643/yr ↓ 8%

$444,500 ↑ 5%

Home Value

$421,900 ↓ 5%

$1,762/mo ↑ 13%

Owner Costs

$1,554/mo ↓ 12%

390,201

Population

186,419

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Aurora, CO and Tempe, AZ, the overall cost of living indices are 130 and 120 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $136/month cheaper in Tempe, saving renters about $1,632/year.

Median household income is $6,677/year higher in Aurora. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Aurora is $444,500 compared to $421,900 in Tempe.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Aurora vs Tempe — common questions

Is Aurora or Tempe cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Tempe is cheaper to live in with an index of 120 compared to 130 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Aurora and Tempe?

Median rent in Aurora is $1,759/month and in Tempe it's $1,623/month — a difference of $136/month.

Which city has higher income, Aurora or Tempe?

Median household income is $84,320 in Aurora and $77,643 in Tempe. Median household income is $6,677/year higher in Aurora.

How do taxes compare between Colorado and Arizona?

Colorado has 4.4% income tax, 2.9% sales tax, and 0.51% property tax. Arizona has 2.5% income tax, 5.6% sales tax, and 0.62% property tax.

Should I move to Aurora or Tempe?

It depends on your priorities. Aurora has a cost index of 130 with median rent of $1,759/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.

Cost of Living: Aurora, CO vs Tempe, AZ (2026)

Aurora

Tempe

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

More Comparisons