Tempe, AZ vs Ann Arbor, MI: 120 vs 121

$1,623/mo ↑ 5%

Median Rent

$1,552/mo ↓ 4%

$77,643/yr ↓ 4%

Median Income

$81,089/yr ↑ 4%

$421,900 ↓ 3%

Home Value

$435,100 ↑ 3%

$1,554/mo ↓ 5%

Owner Costs

$1,638/mo ↑ 5%

186,419

Population

121,179

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Tempe, AZ and Ann Arbor, MI, the overall cost of living indices are 120 and 121 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $71/month cheaper in Ann Arbor, saving renters about $852/year.

Median household income is $3,446/year higher in Ann Arbor. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Tempe is $421,900 compared to $435,100 in Ann Arbor.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Tempe vs Ann Arbor — common questions

Is Tempe or Ann Arbor cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Tempe is cheaper to live in with an index of 120 compared to 121 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Tempe and Ann Arbor?

Median rent in Tempe is $1,623/month and in Ann Arbor it's $1,552/month — a difference of $71/month.

Which city has higher income, Tempe or Ann Arbor?

Median household income is $77,643 in Tempe and $81,089 in Ann Arbor. Median household income is $3,446/year higher in Ann Arbor.

How do taxes compare between Arizona and Michigan?

Arizona has 2.5% income tax, 5.6% sales tax, and 0.62% property tax. Michigan has 4.25% income tax, 6.0% sales tax, and 1.38% property tax.

Should I move to Tempe or Ann Arbor?

It depends on your priorities. Tempe has a cost index of 120 with median rent of $1,623/mo, while Ann Arbor has a cost index of 121 with rent of $1,552/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

Cost of Living: Tempe, AZ vs Ann Arbor, MI (2026)

Tempe

Ann Arbor

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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