Buffalo, NY vs Tempe, AZ: 61 vs 120

$989/mo ↓ 39%

Median Rent

$1,623/mo ↑ 64%

$48,050/yr ↓ 38%

Median Income

$77,643/yr ↑ 62%

$152,300 ↓ 64%

Home Value

$421,900 ↑ 177%

$929/mo ↓ 40%

Owner Costs

$1,554/mo ↑ 67%

276,397

Population

186,419

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Buffalo, NY and Tempe, AZ, the overall cost of living indices are 61 and 120 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $634/month cheaper in Buffalo, saving renters about $7,608/year.

Median household income is $29,593/year higher in Tempe. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Buffalo is $152,300 compared to $421,900 in Tempe.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Buffalo vs Tempe — common questions

Is Buffalo or Tempe cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Buffalo is cheaper to live in with an index of 61 compared to 120 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Buffalo and Tempe?

Median rent in Buffalo is $989/month and in Tempe it's $1,623/month — a difference of $634/month.

Which city has higher income, Buffalo or Tempe?

Median household income is $48,050 in Buffalo and $77,643 in Tempe. Median household income is $29,593/year higher in Tempe.

How do taxes compare between New York and Arizona?

New York has 10.9% income tax, 4.0% sales tax, and 1.62% property tax. Arizona has 2.5% income tax, 5.6% sales tax, and 0.62% property tax.

Should I move to Buffalo or Tempe?

It depends on your priorities. Buffalo has a cost index of 61 with median rent of $989/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: Buffalo, NY vs Tempe, AZ (2026)

Buffalo

Tempe

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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