Fresno, CA vs Tempe, AZ: 101 vs 120

$1,324/mo ↓ 18%

Median Rent

$1,623/mo ↑ 23%

$66,804/yr ↓ 14%

Median Income

$77,643/yr ↑ 16%

$348,500 ↓ 17%

Home Value

$421,900 ↑ 21%

$1,391/mo ↓ 10%

Owner Costs

$1,554/mo ↑ 12%

543,615

Population

186,419

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Fresno, CA and Tempe, AZ, the overall cost of living indices are 101 and 120 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $299/month cheaper in Fresno, saving renters about $3,588/year.

Median household income is $10,839/year higher in Tempe. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Fresno is $348,500 compared to $421,900 in Tempe.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Fresno vs Tempe — common questions

Is Fresno or Tempe cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Fresno is cheaper to live in with an index of 101 compared to 120 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Fresno and Tempe?

Median rent in Fresno is $1,324/month and in Tempe it's $1,623/month — a difference of $299/month.

Which city has higher income, Fresno or Tempe?

Median household income is $66,804 in Fresno and $77,643 in Tempe. Median household income is $10,839/year higher in Tempe.

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 Fresno or Tempe?

It depends on your priorities. Fresno has a cost index of 101 with median rent of $1,324/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: Fresno, CA vs Tempe, AZ (2026)

Fresno

Tempe

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

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