Plano, TX vs Tempe, AZ: 132 vs 120

$1,792/mo ↑ 10%

Median Rent

$1,623/mo ↓ 9%

$108,649/yr ↑ 40%

Median Income

$77,643/yr ↓ 29%

$440,600 ↑ 4%

Home Value

$421,900 ↓ 4%

$1,829/mo ↑ 18%

Owner Costs

$1,554/mo ↓ 15%

287,339

Population

186,419

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Plano, TX and Tempe, AZ, the overall cost of living indices are 132 and 120 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $169/month cheaper in Tempe, saving renters about $2,028/year.

Median household income is $31,006/year higher in Plano. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Plano is $440,600 compared to $421,900 in Tempe.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Plano vs Tempe — common questions

Is Plano or Tempe cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Tempe is cheaper to live in with an index of 120 compared to 132 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Plano and Tempe?

Median rent in Plano is $1,792/month and in Tempe it's $1,623/month — a difference of $169/month.

Which city has higher income, Plano or Tempe?

Median household income is $108,649 in Plano and $77,643 in Tempe. Median household income is $31,006/year higher in Plano.

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 Plano or Tempe?

It depends on your priorities. Plano has a cost index of 132 with median rent of $1,792/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: Plano, TX vs Tempe, AZ (2026)

Plano

Tempe

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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