Spokane, WA vs Tempe, AZ: 90 vs 120

$1,141/mo ↓ 30%

Median Rent

$1,623/mo ↑ 42%

$65,745/yr ↓ 15%

Median Income

$77,643/yr ↑ 18%

$326,200 ↓ 23%

Home Value

$421,900 ↑ 29%

$1,213/mo ↓ 22%

Owner Costs

$1,554/mo ↑ 28%

229,228

Population

186,419

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Spokane, WA and Tempe, AZ, the overall cost of living indices are 90 and 120 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $482/month cheaper in Spokane, saving renters about $5,784/year.

Median household income is $11,898/year higher in Tempe. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Spokane is $326,200 compared to $421,900 in Tempe.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Spokane vs Tempe — common questions

Is Spokane or Tempe cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Spokane is cheaper to live in with an index of 90 compared to 120 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Spokane and Tempe?

Median rent in Spokane is $1,141/month and in Tempe it's $1,623/month — a difference of $482/month.

Which city has higher income, Spokane or Tempe?

Median household income is $65,745 in Spokane and $77,643 in Tempe. Median household income is $11,898/year higher in Tempe.

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 Spokane or Tempe?

It depends on your priorities. Spokane has a cost index of 90 with median rent of $1,141/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: Spokane, WA vs Tempe, AZ (2026)

Spokane

Tempe

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

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