Cost of Living: Portland, OR vs Tempe, AZ (2026)

Portland

Oregon
138
VS

Tempe

Arizona
120

Portland is 15% more expensive than Tempe.

$1,596/mo ↓ 2%
Median Rent
$1,623/mo ↑ 2%
$88,792/yr ↑ 14%
Median Income
$77,643/yr ↓ 13%
$557,600 ↑ 32%
Home Value
$421,900 ↓ 24%
$1,771/mo ↑ 14%
Owner Costs
$1,554/mo ↓ 12%
642,715
Population
186,419

Tax Comparison

9.9%
Income Tax
2.5%
0%
State Sales Tax
5.6%
0.93%
Property Tax
0.62%

Affordability

21.6%
rent-to-income
Affordability
25.1%
rent-to-income

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Portland, OR and Tempe, AZ, the overall cost of living indices are 138 and 120 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is comparable in both cities, with less than $50/month separating them.

Median household income is $11,149/year higher in Portland. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Portland is $557,600 compared to $421,900 in Tempe.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Portland vs Tempe — common questions

Is Portland 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 Portland and Tempe?
Median rent in Portland is $1,596/month and in Tempe it's $1,623/month — a difference of $27/month.
Which city has higher income, Portland or Tempe?
Median household income is $88,792 in Portland and $77,643 in Tempe. Median household income is $11,149/year higher in Portland.
How do taxes compare between Oregon and Arizona?
Oregon has 9.9% income tax, 0% sales tax, and 0.93% property tax. Arizona has 2.5% income tax, 5.6% sales tax, and 0.62% property tax.
Should I move to Portland or Tempe?
It depends on your priorities. Portland has a cost index of 138 with median rent of $1,596/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.
View Portland details → View Tempe details →

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