Cost of Living: Providence, RI vs Tempe, AZ 2026

$1,333/mo ↓ 18%

Median Rent

$1,623/mo ↑ 22%

$66,772/yr ↓ 14%

Median Income

$77,643/yr ↑ 16%

$322,800 ↓ 23%

Home Value

$421,900 ↑ 31%

$1,467/mo ↓ 6%

Owner Costs

$1,554/mo ↑ 6%

190,214

Population

186,419

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Providence, RI and Tempe, AZ, the overall cost of living indices are 99 and 120 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $290/month cheaper in Providence, saving renters about $3,480/year.

Median household income is $10,871/year higher in Tempe. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Providence is $322,800 compared to $421,900 in Tempe.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Providence vs Tempe — common questions

Is Providence or Tempe cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Providence is cheaper to live in with an index of 99 compared to 120 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Providence and Tempe?

Median rent in Providence is $1,333/month and in Tempe it's $1,623/month — a difference of $290/month.

Which city has higher income, Providence or Tempe?

Median household income is $66,772 in Providence and $77,643 in Tempe. Median household income is $10,871/year higher in Tempe.

How do taxes compare between Rhode Island and Arizona?

Rhode Island has 5.99% income tax, 7.0% sales tax, and 1.53% property tax. Arizona has 2.5% income tax, 5.6% sales tax, and 0.62% property tax.

Should I move to Providence or Tempe?

It depends on your priorities. Providence has a cost index of 99 with median rent of $1,333/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: Providence, RI vs Tempe, AZ (2026)

Providence

Tempe

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions