Chula Vista, CA vs Tempe, AZ: 178 vs 120

$2,122/mo ↑ 31%

Median Rent

$1,623/mo ↓ 24%

$105,173/yr ↑ 35%

Median Income

$77,643/yr ↓ 26%

$697,400 ↑ 65%

Home Value

$421,900 ↓ 40%

$2,342/mo ↑ 51%

Owner Costs

$1,554/mo ↓ 34%

275,030

Population

186,419

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Chula Vista, CA and Tempe, AZ, the overall cost of living indices are 178 and 120 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $499/month cheaper in Tempe, saving renters about $5,988/year.

Median household income is $27,530/year higher in Chula Vista. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Chula Vista is $697,400 compared to $421,900 in Tempe.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Chula Vista vs Tempe — common questions

Is Chula Vista or Tempe cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Tempe is cheaper to live in with an index of 120 compared to 178 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Chula Vista and Tempe?

Median rent in Chula Vista is $2,122/month and in Tempe it's $1,623/month — a difference of $499/month.

Which city has higher income, Chula Vista or Tempe?

Median household income is $105,173 in Chula Vista and $77,643 in Tempe. Median household income is $27,530/year higher in Chula Vista.

How do taxes compare between California and Arizona?

California has 13.3% income tax, 7.25% sales tax, and 0.71% property tax. Arizona has 2.5% income tax, 5.6% sales tax, and 0.62% property tax.

Should I move to Chula Vista or Tempe?

It depends on your priorities. Chula Vista has a cost index of 178 with median rent of $2,122/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: Chula Vista, CA vs Tempe, AZ (2026)

Chula Vista

Tempe

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

More Comparisons