Garland, TX vs Tempe, AZ: 96 vs 120

$1,525/mo ↓ 6%

Median Rent

$1,623/mo ↑ 6%

$74,717/yr ↓ 4%

Median Income

$77,643/yr ↑ 4%

$248,900 ↓ 41%

Home Value

$421,900 ↑ 70%

$1,445/mo ↓ 7%

Owner Costs

$1,554/mo ↑ 8%

245,298

Population

186,419

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Garland, TX and Tempe, AZ, the overall cost of living indices are 96 and 120 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $98/month cheaper in Garland, saving renters about $1,176/year.

Median household income is $2,926/year higher in Tempe. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Garland is $248,900 compared to $421,900 in Tempe.

Texas has no state income tax, giving Garland residents a significant tax advantage over Arizona's 2.5% rate.

Frequently Asked Questions

Garland vs Tempe — common questions

Is Garland or Tempe cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Garland is cheaper to live in with an index of 96 compared to 120 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Garland and Tempe?

Median rent in Garland is $1,525/month and in Tempe it's $1,623/month — a difference of $98/month.

Which city has higher income, Garland or Tempe?

Median household income is $74,717 in Garland and $77,643 in Tempe. Median household income is $2,926/year higher in Tempe.

How do taxes compare between Texas and Arizona?

Texas has 0% income tax, 6.25% sales tax, and 1.6% property tax. Arizona has 2.5% income tax, 5.6% sales tax, and 0.62% property tax.

Should I move to Garland or Tempe?

It depends on your priorities. Garland has a cost index of 96 with median rent of $1,525/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: Garland, TX vs Tempe, AZ (2026)

Garland

Tempe

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Affordability

Detailed Comparison

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