Pittsburgh, PA vs Tempe, AZ: 76 vs 120

$1,221/mo ↓ 25%

Median Rent

$1,623/mo ↑ 33%

$64,137/yr ↓ 17%

Median Income

$77,643/yr ↑ 21%

$193,200 ↓ 54%

Home Value

$421,900 ↑ 118%

$1,136/mo ↓ 27%

Owner Costs

$1,554/mo ↑ 37%

303,620

Population

186,419

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Pittsburgh, PA and Tempe, AZ, the overall cost of living indices are 76 and 120 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $402/month cheaper in Pittsburgh, saving renters about $4,824/year.

Median household income is $13,506/year higher in Tempe. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Pittsburgh is $193,200 compared to $421,900 in Tempe.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Pittsburgh vs Tempe — common questions

Is Pittsburgh or Tempe cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Pittsburgh is cheaper to live in with an index of 76 compared to 120 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Pittsburgh and Tempe?

Median rent in Pittsburgh is $1,221/month and in Tempe it's $1,623/month — a difference of $402/month.

Which city has higher income, Pittsburgh or Tempe?

Median household income is $64,137 in Pittsburgh and $77,643 in Tempe. Median household income is $13,506/year higher in Tempe.

How do taxes compare between Pennsylvania and Arizona?

Pennsylvania has 3.07% income tax, 6.0% sales tax, and 1.49% property tax. Arizona has 2.5% income tax, 5.6% sales tax, and 0.62% property tax.

Should I move to Pittsburgh or Tempe?

It depends on your priorities. Pittsburgh has a cost index of 76 with median rent of $1,221/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: Pittsburgh, PA vs Tempe, AZ (2026)

Pittsburgh

Tempe

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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