Seattle, WA vs Tempe, AZ: 196 vs 120

$1,998/mo ↑ 23%

Median Rent

$1,623/mo ↓ 19%

$121,984/yr ↑ 57%

Median Income

$77,643/yr ↓ 36%

$912,100 ↑ 116%

Home Value

$421,900 ↓ 54%

$2,220/mo ↑ 43%

Owner Costs

$1,554/mo ↓ 30%

741,440

Population

186,419

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Seattle, WA and Tempe, AZ, the overall cost of living indices are 196 and 120 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $375/month cheaper in Tempe, saving renters about $4,500/year.

Median household income is $44,341/year higher in Seattle. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Seattle is $912,100 compared to $421,900 in Tempe.

Washington has no state income tax, giving Seattle residents a significant tax advantage over Arizona's 2.5% rate.

Frequently Asked Questions

Seattle vs Tempe — common questions

Is Seattle or Tempe cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Tempe is cheaper to live in with an index of 120 compared to 196 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Seattle and Tempe?

Median rent in Seattle is $1,998/month and in Tempe it's $1,623/month — a difference of $375/month.

Which city has higher income, Seattle or Tempe?

Median household income is $121,984 in Seattle and $77,643 in Tempe. Median household income is $44,341/year higher in Seattle.

How do taxes compare between Washington and Arizona?

Washington has 0% income tax, 6.5% sales tax, and 0.92% property tax. Arizona has 2.5% income tax, 5.6% sales tax, and 0.62% property tax.

Should I move to Seattle or Tempe?

It depends on your priorities. Seattle has a cost index of 196 with median rent of $1,998/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: Seattle, WA vs Tempe, AZ (2026)

Seattle

Tempe

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

More Comparisons