Tempe, AZ vs Alexandria, VA: 120 vs 173

$1,623/mo ↓ 20%

Median Rent

$2,031/mo ↑ 25%

$77,643/yr ↓ 32%

Median Income

$113,638/yr ↑ 46%

$421,900 ↓ 39%

Home Value

$696,800 ↑ 65%

$1,554/mo ↓ 28%

Owner Costs

$2,173/mo ↑ 40%

186,419

Population

156,788

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Tempe, AZ and Alexandria, VA, the overall cost of living indices are 120 and 173 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $408/month cheaper in Tempe, saving renters about $4,896/year.

Median household income is $35,995/year higher in Alexandria. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Tempe is $421,900 compared to $696,800 in Alexandria.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Tempe vs Alexandria — common questions

Is Tempe or Alexandria cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Tempe is cheaper to live in with an index of 120 compared to 173 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Tempe and Alexandria?

Median rent in Tempe is $1,623/month and in Alexandria it's $2,031/month — a difference of $408/month.

Which city has higher income, Tempe or Alexandria?

Median household income is $77,643 in Tempe and $113,638 in Alexandria. Median household income is $35,995/year higher in Alexandria.

How do taxes compare between Arizona and Virginia?

Arizona has 2.5% income tax, 5.6% sales tax, and 0.62% property tax. Virginia has 5.75% income tax, 5.3% sales tax, and 0.8% property tax.

Should I move to Tempe or Alexandria?

It depends on your priorities. Tempe has a cost index of 120 with median rent of $1,623/mo, while Alexandria has a cost index of 173 with rent of $2,031/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

Cost of Living: Tempe, AZ vs Alexandria, VA (2026)

Tempe

Alexandria

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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