McKinney, TX vs Tempe, AZ: 138 vs 120

$1,841/mo ↑ 13%

Median Rent

$1,623/mo ↓ 12%

$120,273/yr ↑ 55%

Median Income

$77,643/yr ↓ 35%

$439,500 ↑ 4%

Home Value

$421,900 ↓ 4%

$2,101/mo ↑ 35%

Owner Costs

$1,554/mo ↓ 26%

202,314

Population

186,419

Detailed Comparison

When comparing McKinney, TX and Tempe, AZ, the overall cost of living indices are 138 and 120 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $218/month cheaper in Tempe, saving renters about $2,616/year.

Median household income is $42,630/year higher in McKinney. Home values also differ significantly — the median in McKinney is $439,500 compared to $421,900 in Tempe.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

McKinney vs Tempe — common questions

Is McKinney or Tempe cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Tempe is cheaper to live in with an index of 120 compared to 138 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between McKinney and Tempe?

Median rent in McKinney is $1,841/month and in Tempe it's $1,623/month — a difference of $218/month.

Which city has higher income, McKinney or Tempe?

Median household income is $120,273 in McKinney and $77,643 in Tempe. Median household income is $42,630/year higher in McKinney.

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 McKinney or Tempe?

It depends on your priorities. McKinney has a cost index of 138 with median rent of $1,841/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: McKinney, TX vs Tempe, AZ (2026)

McKinney

Tempe

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

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