San Francisco, CA vs Tempe, AZ: 267 vs 120

$2,419/mo ↑ 49%

Median Rent

$1,623/mo ↓ 33%

$141,446/yr ↑ 82%

Median Income

$77,643/yr ↓ 45%

$1,380,500 ↑ 227%

Home Value

$421,900 ↓ 69%

$2,620/mo ↑ 69%

Owner Costs

$1,554/mo ↓ 41%

836,321

Population

186,419

Detailed Comparison

When comparing San Francisco, CA and Tempe, AZ, the overall cost of living indices are 267 and 120 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $796/month cheaper in Tempe, saving renters about $9,552/year.

Median household income is $63,803/year higher in San Francisco. Home values also differ significantly — the median in San Francisco is $1,380,500 compared to $421,900 in Tempe.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

San Francisco vs Tempe — common questions

Is San Francisco or Tempe cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Tempe is cheaper to live in with an index of 120 compared to 267 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between San Francisco and Tempe?

Median rent in San Francisco is $2,419/month and in Tempe it's $1,623/month — a difference of $796/month.

Which city has higher income, San Francisco or Tempe?

Median household income is $141,446 in San Francisco and $77,643 in Tempe. Median household income is $63,803/year higher in San Francisco.

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 Francisco or Tempe?

It depends on your priorities. San Francisco has a cost index of 267 with median rent of $2,419/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 Francisco, CA vs Tempe, AZ (2026)

San Francisco

Tempe

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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