San Diego, CA vs Tempe, AZ: 197 vs 120

$2,223/mo ↑ 37%

Median Rent

$1,623/mo ↓ 27%

$104,321/yr ↑ 34%

Median Income

$77,643/yr ↓ 26%

$848,500 ↑ 101%

Home Value

$421,900 ↓ 50%

$2,308/mo ↑ 49%

Owner Costs

$1,554/mo ↓ 33%

1,385,061

Population

186,419

Detailed Comparison

When comparing San Diego, CA and Tempe, AZ, the overall cost of living indices are 197 and 120 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $600/month cheaper in Tempe, saving renters about $7,200/year.

Median household income is $26,678/year higher in San Diego. Home values also differ significantly — the median in San Diego is $848,500 compared to $421,900 in Tempe.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

San Diego vs Tempe — common questions

Is San Diego or Tempe cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Tempe is cheaper to live in with an index of 120 compared to 197 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between San Diego and Tempe?

Median rent in San Diego is $2,223/month and in Tempe it's $1,623/month — a difference of $600/month.

Which city has higher income, San Diego or Tempe?

Median household income is $104,321 in San Diego and $77,643 in Tempe. Median household income is $26,678/year higher in San Diego.

How do taxes compare between California and Arizona?

California has 13.3% income tax, 7.25% sales tax, and 0.71% property tax. Arizona has 2.5% income tax, 5.6% sales tax, and 0.62% property tax.

Should I move to San Diego or Tempe?

It depends on your priorities. San Diego has a cost index of 197 with median rent of $2,223/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: San Diego, CA vs Tempe, AZ (2026)

San Diego

Tempe

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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