Irvine, CA vs Tempe, AZ: 256 vs 120

$2,893/mo ↑ 78%

Median Rent

$1,623/mo ↓ 44%

$129,647/yr ↑ 67%

Median Income

$77,643/yr ↓ 40%

$1,115,400 ↑ 164%

Home Value

$421,900 ↓ 62%

$2,904/mo ↑ 87%

Owner Costs

$1,554/mo ↓ 46%

308,160

Population

186,419

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Irvine, CA and Tempe, AZ, the overall cost of living indices are 256 and 120 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $1,270/month cheaper in Tempe, saving renters about $15,240/year.

Median household income is $52,004/year higher in Irvine. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Irvine is $1,115,400 compared to $421,900 in Tempe.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Irvine vs Tempe — common questions

Is Irvine or Tempe cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Tempe is cheaper to live in with an index of 120 compared to 256 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Irvine and Tempe?

Median rent in Irvine is $2,893/month and in Tempe it's $1,623/month — a difference of $1,270/month.

Which city has higher income, Irvine or Tempe?

Median household income is $129,647 in Irvine and $77,643 in Tempe. Median household income is $52,004/year higher in Irvine.

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 Irvine or Tempe?

It depends on your priorities. Irvine has a cost index of 256 with median rent of $2,893/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: Irvine, CA vs Tempe, AZ (2026)

Irvine

Tempe

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

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