Columbus, OH vs Tempe, AZ: 83 vs 120

$1,224/mo ↓ 25%

Median Rent

$1,623/mo ↑ 33%

$65,327/yr ↓ 16%

Median Income

$77,643/yr ↑ 19%

$234,500 ↓ 44%

Home Value

$421,900 ↑ 80%

$1,243/mo ↓ 20%

Owner Costs

$1,554/mo ↑ 25%

906,480

Population

186,419

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Columbus, OH and Tempe, AZ, the overall cost of living indices are 83 and 120 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $399/month cheaper in Columbus, saving renters about $4,788/year.

Median household income is $12,316/year higher in Tempe. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Columbus is $234,500 compared to $421,900 in Tempe.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Columbus vs Tempe — common questions

Is Columbus or Tempe cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Columbus is cheaper to live in with an index of 83 compared to 120 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Columbus and Tempe?

Median rent in Columbus is $1,224/month and in Tempe it's $1,623/month — a difference of $399/month.

Which city has higher income, Columbus or Tempe?

Median household income is $65,327 in Columbus and $77,643 in Tempe. Median household income is $12,316/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 Columbus or Tempe?

It depends on your priorities. Columbus has a cost index of 83 with median rent of $1,224/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: Columbus, OH vs Tempe, AZ (2026)

Columbus

Tempe

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

More Comparisons