Lincoln, NE vs Tempe, AZ: 77 vs 120

$1,045/mo ↓ 36%

Median Rent

$1,623/mo ↑ 55%

$69,991/yr ↓ 10%

Median Income

$77,643/yr ↑ 11%

$248,200 ↓ 41%

Home Value

$421,900 ↑ 70%

$1,140/mo ↓ 27%

Owner Costs

$1,554/mo ↑ 36%

291,932

Population

186,419

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Lincoln, NE and Tempe, AZ, the overall cost of living indices are 77 and 120 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $578/month cheaper in Lincoln, saving renters about $6,936/year.

Median household income is $7,652/year higher in Tempe. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Lincoln is $248,200 compared to $421,900 in Tempe.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Lincoln vs Tempe — common questions

Is Lincoln or Tempe cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Lincoln is cheaper to live in with an index of 77 compared to 120 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Lincoln and Tempe?

Median rent in Lincoln is $1,045/month and in Tempe it's $1,623/month — a difference of $578/month.

Which city has higher income, Lincoln or Tempe?

Median household income is $69,991 in Lincoln and $77,643 in Tempe. Median household income is $7,652/year higher in Tempe.

How do taxes compare between Nebraska and Arizona?

Nebraska has 6.64% income tax, 5.5% sales tax, and 1.73% property tax. Arizona has 2.5% income tax, 5.6% sales tax, and 0.62% property tax.

Should I move to Lincoln or Tempe?

It depends on your priorities. Lincoln has a cost index of 77 with median rent of $1,045/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: Lincoln, NE vs Tempe, AZ (2026)

Lincoln

Tempe

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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