Cost of Living: Scottsdale, AZ vs Tempe, AZ (2026)

Scottsdale

Arizona
165
VS

Tempe

Arizona
120

Scottsdale is 38% more expensive than Tempe.

$1,910/mo ↑ 18%
Median Rent
$1,623/mo ↓ 15%
$107,372/yr ↑ 38%
Median Income
$77,643/yr ↓ 28%
$709,900 ↑ 68%
Home Value
$421,900 ↓ 41%
$1,824/mo ↑ 17%
Owner Costs
$1,554/mo ↓ 15%
242,169
Population
186,419

Tax Comparison

2.5%
Income Tax
2.5%
5.6%
State Sales Tax
5.6%
0.62%
Property Tax
0.62%

Affordability

21.3%
rent-to-income
Affordability
25.1%
rent-to-income

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Scottsdale, AZ and Tempe, AZ, the overall cost of living indices are 165 and 120 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $287/month cheaper in Tempe, saving renters about $3,444/year.

Median household income is $29,729/year higher in Scottsdale. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Scottsdale is $709,900 compared to $421,900 in Tempe.

Both cities share the same state tax structure since they are in Arizona.

Frequently Asked Questions

Scottsdale vs Tempe — common questions

Is Scottsdale or Tempe cheaper to live in?
Based on our cost index, Tempe is cheaper to live in with an index of 120 compared to 165 (US average = 100).
What is the rent difference between Scottsdale and Tempe?
Median rent in Scottsdale is $1,910/month and in Tempe it's $1,623/month — a difference of $287/month.
Which city has higher income, Scottsdale or Tempe?
Median household income is $107,372 in Scottsdale and $77,643 in Tempe. Median household income is $29,729/year higher in Scottsdale.
How do taxes compare between Arizona and Arizona?
Both cities are in Arizona and share the same state tax rates: 2.5% income tax, 5.6% sales tax, and 0.62% property tax.
Should I move to Scottsdale or Tempe?
It depends on your priorities. Scottsdale has a cost index of 165 with median rent of $1,910/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 Scottsdale details → View Tempe details →

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